Learn how to strip your laundry to remove soap and mineral buildup – especially important if you’ve been using homemade laundry soap!
If you’ve been using homemade laundry “detergent” to wash your clothes for any amount of time, I need you to listen up.
Your laundry is NOT getting cleaned.
It might look like it’s clean, and it might smell like it’s clean. But there’s a big problem lurking deep down inside the fibers of your clothing, towels, and linens.
It’s very likely that your laundry is accumulating buildup from the minerals in your water, the soap from your homemade detergent recipe, and other dirt, oil, and bacteria.
Too hard to believe? I don’t blame you! I felt the same exact way when I heard this for the first time. And I’ll tell you something else – I didn’t like it one bit. I was in complete denial about the whole thing.
And honestly, the whole thing just confused the heck out of me. That’s why I’ve spent hours and hours since then researching, testing, and trying to get to the bottom of this issue.
But if you need some time to come to terms with the ugly truth about your homemade laundry soap, go ahead and click that link to read about all of the soap fun facts I’ve learned along the way. Seriously, go ahead – I’ll wait…
Alright, now that you’re up to speed, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start stripping…your laundry, that is! Haha, I crack myself up. 🙂
Ok, so you want to start over with truly clean laundry, right? Right!
For help with stripping laundry, I’m looking to our cloth-diapering mom friends because they know a thing or two about laundry buildup.
Laundry Stripping: The Condensed Version
For full, detailed instructions, including the how and why of each and every ingredient, I recommend you check out the helpful information here and here. Otherwise, you can follow along with me below for a condensed version of how to strip your laundry:
Step 1: Choose a Stripping Solution
First, you’ll either make or buy a stripping solution.
Note: I also recommend stripping your laundry if you’ve been using conventional laundry detergents and want to switch to a safer, natural detergent. Strip your laundry before making the switch, otherwise, all the leftover buildup (yes, even conventional detergents and fabric softeners leave buildup!) will begin to rear its ugly head once you start using the natural detergent.
If you’re just stripping to remove conventional detergent or fabric softener buildup, I recommend you use the DIY solution below, instead of the GroVia pods. It’s easier, cheaper, and you can use the same ingredients later on for boosting your detergent and softening your water if needed.
In place of the natural laundry detergent, you can instead use 1-2 Tablespoons of Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds.
Follow the instructions below, but instead of the GroVia pods, substitute your DIY solution.
I used the GroVia Mighty Bubbles solution as opposed to the DIY solution because I’d been using the homemade laundry soap for years; and the GroVia pods have a higher concentration of enzymes, so they’re better for non-mineral buildup.
Again, if you’re just stripping laundry to remove buildup from regular detergents and fabric softeners, the DIY solution is more than enough.
Step 2: Soak Your Laundry
Fill up your bathtub or a large container about half way with very hot water – the hottest you can get from your faucet. Drop 2-3 Grovia pods into the tub (depending on amount of water), and watch as they start fizzing. Then give the water a good stir to help the pods dissolve completely.
If using the DIY solution, you can do this right in your washing machine. Add the solution to the bottom of the washer, then set it for a hot water wash. As the water fills the drum, stir the water a bit to dissolve the powders.
Add your laundry to the water, and use a long stick or pole to push everything under the water, making sure every item is completely soaked.
Let it soak for about 4 hours, or until the water has cooled down. Make sure to go back every hour or so to give it all a good stir to help work the solution deep into the fabrics.
In your washing machine, you’ll just leave the lid open for those 4 hours. If your washer won’t allow you to do this (ie: if it will automatically drain the water after some time if the lid isn’t closed), then you’ll have to do this in the bathtub instead.
Step 3: Rinse Your Laundry
Once the water has cooled, remove your items from the water – wringing them out very well – before moving them to your washer. I just put them into a large bucket, which I then carried down to the laundry room once I was done.
Finally, run your washer on a water only cycle (no detergents!) to rinse out any leftover residue from the stripping solution. If you stripped a fairly large load of laundry, you might need to split it into two rinse loads so you don’t overload your washer.
Of course, if you did your soak right in the washer, you can skip this step and just close the lid to let the machine do its thing.
Then, dry your laundry like normal.
Congratulations – you now have a fresh load of laundry that’s been stripped of soap residue, hard water minerals, and any dirt or grime that has built up over the years.
Going forward, you should only wash with a proper detergent so you don’t have to resort to stripping your laundry again in the future (stripping with a strong solution like the GrowVia pods can be very harsh on fabrics, and should NOT be done regularly.)
The “After” Photos
I’d read about and seen pictures of what the end result might look like, but none of that prepared me for what I found in my bath tub after removing all those towels and sheets, and wringing out all the water…
Light towels and linens
Look at that… Just look at it! That brown, murky, funky water is what was stripped from just the light colored towels and linens. These are sheets and pillow cases that we’d been sleeping on for years. Towels that we’d been using to dry our hands, faces, and bodies. All of that nastiness was stuck in there, and I had no idea!
Well, I had some idea, but I was just in complete denial about it.
Then I stripped a load of dark colored towels and linens. That leftover water was even darker, but I suspect that might have to do with the very hot water stripping some of the color out of those fabrics. Either way, it still looked pretty funky.
Dark towels and linens
Finally, I stripped a load of just my and my husband’s light colored laundry – shirts, pants, undergarments, etc. I think this is the load that grossed me out the most. When I put my hand under the water to pull out the drain plug, I couldn’t even see my hand through all that murkiness…nasty!
Mine and hubby’s light colored laundry.
Thank goodness I didn’t experience any foul odor coming from the water, though some people have reported a funky smell – yikes!
I actually decided against stripping the kids’ clothes, because right now they’re not holding on to them for longer than a year before they’ve outgrown them anyways.
The “After” Effects
Pictures of murky water are good for shock value, but they mean nothing if we don’t also talk about how the newly stripped laundry actually feels, right? This was the best part, as it was icing on the cake.
Our towels now feel noticeably softer than they were, and they are definitely more absorbent. The bed linens feel softer and smell fresher (no more stale smell). And the clothes, especially undershirts, feel and smell much better – and as an added bonus, the stripping actually removed some old sweat stains!
Are you ready to strip your laundry?
If you’ve only been using a homemade laundry soap for a few months, or even a year, you may not necessarily notice a buildup issue yet. If seeing my stripping water has scared you straight, you can probably get away with just switching to a non-toxic laundry detergent, and moving on with your life.
But if you suspect even the tiniest issue, I suggest you get on this laundry stripping business as soon as possible, and start looking for a replacement laundry detergent from now.
Have you noticed a buildup issue after using your homemade laundry soap? Please share in the comments below!
Sarah UmmYusuf, a wife and mother of three, is a writer and teacher who loves helping people take charge of their family’s health. She created her blog, Nature’s Nurture, in 2011 to document her journey to a non-toxic home, and has helped countless others start their own journeys. When she’s not busy reading product labels or making her own cleaning products, you can find her chasing after her kiddos and drinking lots and lots of coffee.
Where has this blog post been?? Thank you for doing this. Your wisdom on these topics is showing me how easy it is to live non-toxic. And now I need to get those pods. Clicking over to add them to my list. Thank you Sarah!!
My HE front load washing machine has water pooling in the rubber gasket at the door opening. I also use a DIY homemade detergent of Dr. Bronners, washing soda, and Borax. I found your post when I was searching for reasons why my machine has a water backup. I suspect it’s the Dr. Bronners “soap” as it’s not a detergent and may be causing buildup in the inside of my machine.
Im going to try stripping as you have suggested to see if this resolves the issue. Thanks for the good information!
all you have to do is add a laundry detergent to your homemade laundry soap – i’ve used for 15 years with no build up this way. And vinegar as a fabric softener. So just choose your fav green laundry stuff and add like 2-6 cup in your 5 gal. bucket with your soap, washing soda and borax.
Yes, I’m starting to recommend that now for people who really love using the homemade version. Even a small amount of actual detergent will help a lot, so thanks for sharing an approximate measurement to add!
Marisa
Christina, I believe if you switch from Dr Bronner’s Castille soap to Dr Bronner’s Sal Suds this will solve your problem. Castille soap CANNOT be used with a vinegar rinse, while Sal Suds absolutely can. I’ve been using Sal Suds for all my laundry and general cleaning for a while now, and am happy with it.
You are correct that you cannot mix Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap and Vinegar together, they cancel each other out basically…you end up with a gloopy mess….but you absolutely CAN use vinegar in your rinse cycle to get rid of any excess soap scum and soften your clothes.
Where has this blog post been?? Thank you for doing this. Your wisdom on these topics is showing me how easy it is to live non-toxic. And now I need to get those pods. Clicking over to add them to my list. Thank you Sarah!!
My HE front load washing machine has water pooling in the rubber gasket at the door opening. I also use a DIY homemade detergent of Dr. Bronners, washing soda, and Borax. I found your post when I was searching for reasons why my machine has a water backup. I suspect it’s the Dr. Bronners “soap” as it’s not a detergent and may be causing buildup in the inside of my machine.
Im going to try stripping as you have suggested to see if this resolves the issue. Thanks for the good information!
all you have to do is add a laundry detergent to your homemade laundry soap – i’ve used for 15 years with no build up this way. And vinegar as a fabric softener. So just choose your fav green laundry stuff and add like 2-6 cup in your 5 gal. bucket with your soap, washing soda and borax.
Yes, I’m starting to recommend that now for people who really love using the homemade version. Even a small amount of actual detergent will help a lot, so thanks for sharing an approximate measurement to add!
Marisa
Christina, I believe if you switch from Dr Bronner’s Castille soap to Dr Bronner’s Sal Suds this will solve your problem. Castille soap CANNOT be used with a vinegar rinse, while Sal Suds absolutely can. I’ve been using Sal Suds for all my laundry and general cleaning for a while now, and am happy with it.
You are correct that you cannot mix Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap and Vinegar together, they cancel each other out basically…you end up with a gloopy mess….but you absolutely CAN use vinegar in your rinse cycle to get rid of any excess soap scum and soften your clothes.
J Habecker
Will just switching to proper detergent help or do i have to strip everything first?
That all depends on how long you’ve been using your homemade laundry soap. Since I’d been using mine for well over 5 years, I knew I just had to strip it all. If I was using it for maybe a year or so, then I’d probably strip only the items that I believe really needed it. So a different question to ask is: what laundry items smell/look/feel like they have a buildup problem? And then go from there. Best of luck to you!
That all depends on how long you’ve been using your homemade laundry soap. Since I’d been using mine for well over 5 years, I knew I just had to strip it all. If I was using it for maybe a year or so, then I’d probably strip only the items that I believe really needed it. So a different question to ask is: what laundry items smell/look/feel like they have a buildup problem? And then go from there. Best of luck to you!
I would love to try the stripping on a load of laundry that’s been washed in regular detergent! I just need to find someone who will let me strip their laundry, LOL. Maybe I have a project for the next time I visit my mom. 😉
And to answer your first question, I’m using a detergent from a Canadian company called Nature Clean. I’m also putting together a guide to help you choose a safe, non-toxic laundry detergent as well.
There are a few considerations to take into account. One of these considerations is basic chemistry. Most home.ade laundry detergents have borax, washing soda, and a laundry soap (example fels naptha, site, octagon, etc….). This mixture is alkaline.
For the formula to work optimally, you absolutely must reverse to acid for rinse. Simple solution add vinegar to your rinse water.
The other considerations: gentler soaps like Kirk’s or Dr. Bonner’s have many uses but are not ideally suited for this type of alchemy.
Sure, the dry mix is more convenient but again, chemistry is part of what made this work so well for our grandma’s…. The step by step method of making the liquid version (that is constantly generating and releasing oxygen) is what works. Make it in small batches, keep in loosely covered containers so it won’t explode, tightly cap immediately before use and shake well. Dispense the amount you need and leave the lid loose. Better yet, do like grandma and store it in a bucket covered with a cloth and stir before each use. Use a soup ladle to scoop up what you need.
This can work in HE machines but seems to better suited for top load old-school machines. Really bad stains on light colored cotton or linen? Easy, just pause the top loader to let soak with the soupy clumpy detergent once the water has filled up.
My grandma has said several times to many people “do this the way it is supposed to be done and it works, do it any other way and it won’t”.
Again, the magic in grandma’s Lau dry soap is, was, and will always be the chemistry involved. All the shortcuts and conveniences remove the full effect of the chemistry.
Never ever use anything else to rinse but vinegar in your rinse water. Plain cheap white vinegar. Never use fabric softener in the wash or dryer. Use wool laundry balls instead.
Adrraiya, I have to completely agree with you! You’re right – it’s all the shortcuts and conveniences that we’ve concocted that have greatly reduced the effectiveness of these products. Thanks so much for sharing!
I would love to try the stripping on a load of laundry that’s been washed in regular detergent! I just need to find someone who will let me strip their laundry, LOL. Maybe I have a project for the next time I visit my mom. 😉
And to answer your first question, I’m using a detergent from a Canadian company called Nature Clean. I’m also putting together a guide to help you choose a safe, non-toxic laundry detergent as well.
There are a few considerations to take into account. One of these considerations is basic chemistry. Most home.ade laundry detergents have borax, washing soda, and a laundry soap (example fels naptha, site, octagon, etc….). This mixture is alkaline.
For the formula to work optimally, you absolutely must reverse to acid for rinse. Simple solution add vinegar to your rinse water.
The other considerations: gentler soaps like Kirk’s or Dr. Bonner’s have many uses but are not ideally suited for this type of alchemy.
Sure, the dry mix is more convenient but again, chemistry is part of what made this work so well for our grandma’s…. The step by step method of making the liquid version (that is constantly generating and releasing oxygen) is what works. Make it in small batches, keep in loosely covered containers so it won’t explode, tightly cap immediately before use and shake well. Dispense the amount you need and leave the lid loose. Better yet, do like grandma and store it in a bucket covered with a cloth and stir before each use. Use a soup ladle to scoop up what you need.
This can work in HE machines but seems to better suited for top load old-school machines. Really bad stains on light colored cotton or linen? Easy, just pause the top loader to let soak with the soupy clumpy detergent once the water has filled up.
My grandma has said several times to many people “do this the way it is supposed to be done and it works, do it any other way and it won’t”.
Again, the magic in grandma’s Lau dry soap is, was, and will always be the chemistry involved. All the shortcuts and conveniences remove the full effect of the chemistry.
Never ever use anything else to rinse but vinegar in your rinse water. Plain cheap white vinegar. Never use fabric softener in the wash or dryer. Use wool laundry balls instead.
Adrraiya, I have to completely agree with you! You’re right – it’s all the shortcuts and conveniences that we’ve concocted that have greatly reduced the effectiveness of these products. Thanks so much for sharing!
I actually use the premade solution, GroVia Mighty Bubbles, but under the first section in the post called “Laundry Stripping: The Condensed Version” there are 2 links that have more info and recipes for you to try. I’ve included those links below for you:
I actually use the premade solution, GroVia Mighty Bubbles, but under the first section in the post called “Laundry Stripping: The Condensed Version” there are 2 links that have more info and recipes for you to try. I’ve included those links below for you:
For the record: both of these women had the same results stripping their laundry, and both of them use regular laundry detergent (Purex for the first, and All Free and Clear for the second.) I don’t think your homemade laundry soap is to blame.
Oh my goodness, thank you so much for sharing these links with me! I’ve been hoping to find someone who tested this after using regular detergent so we could compare.
Thanks again, Danielle, I’m going to take a look and reassess.
For the record: both of these women had the same results stripping their laundry, and both of them use regular laundry detergent (Purex for the first, and All Free and Clear for the second.) I don’t think your homemade laundry soap is to blame.
Oh my goodness, thank you so much for sharing these links with me! I’ve been hoping to find someone who tested this after using regular detergent so we could compare.
Thanks again, Danielle, I’m going to take a look and reassess.
Laundry never feels stiff or looks dingy when white vinegar is used as fabric softener. It breaks down mineral build up and disinfects laundry. Soap does build up in washer boot tho, and I’ve read it can damage the pump too. Just had mine replaced. I’ve been using DIY detergent for about 5 yrs. Stripped laundry with baking soda and white vinegar in warm/warm wash. There was no excess soap or visable bubbles coming from my laundry. Everything was very absorbent beforehand (even microfiber fabrics). I’m guessing this is bcuz I’ve always used vinegar as a fabric softener. I have used baking soda and vinegar to unclog my drains many times so I’m feeling confident that it will breakdown the soap in my washer boot as well. I have read that the 50/50 mix of borax and washing soda works great, so I may try that next time I use homemade. Yesterday I purchased commercial brand bottle to see if I notice a difference after reading many articles on this topic. My repairman did recommend one of the “washer cleaners”. They were $ 7-10! Basically citric acid, to break down build up of minerals and remove odors from machine. I can do that with citric acid or vinegar for way less than that! Also noticed in microprint, that one was made by Whirlpool, hence the $10 pricetag, I’m sure
Laundry never feels stiff or looks dingy when white vinegar is used as fabric softener. It breaks down mineral build up and disinfects laundry. Soap does build up in washer boot tho, and I’ve read it can damage the pump too. Just had mine replaced. I’ve been using DIY detergent for about 5 yrs. Stripped laundry with baking soda and white vinegar in warm/warm wash. There was no excess soap or visable bubbles coming from my laundry. Everything was very absorbent beforehand (even microfiber fabrics). I’m guessing this is bcuz I’ve always used vinegar as a fabric softener. I have used baking soda and vinegar to unclog my drains many times so I’m feeling confident that it will breakdown the soap in my washer boot as well. I have read that the 50/50 mix of borax and washing soda works great, so I may try that next time I use homemade. Yesterday I purchased commercial brand bottle to see if I notice a difference after reading many articles on this topic. My repairman did recommend one of the “washer cleaners”. They were $ 7-10! Basically citric acid, to break down build up of minerals and remove odors from machine. I can do that with citric acid or vinegar for way less than that! Also noticed in microprint, that one was made by Whirlpool, hence the $10 pricetag, I’m sure
I use dr bronners (diluted) for hand soap and body wash. We have a water softener, & I always wash towels and wash cloths on hot, regular cycle to be sure to get all of the oil based soap (& dirt & ickies) out. But now I’m concerned its not really getting bath linens clean!
I use all free & clear (I have incredibly sensitive skin, and so does my son). Do you think I should strip them?
I am having such sad and mixed emotions! The dr bronners has been a miracle on my skin, severe eczema has tormented me my whole life….& the all is the only free & clear i’ve tried that doesn’t cause a skin reaction! But one of the links you gave said all can cause residue too!?! Help!
Hey Rachel, I can’t say for sure about All Free & Clear. I do know that most conventional detergents by default can leave a residue, especially if they’re claiming “brighter and whiter whites!” – the optical brighteners they add that allow them to make those claims are, by their nature, going to remain on the laundry to make it *seem* like it’s brighter and whiter. It’s crazy, I know.
That being said, if you’re not having any issues, I would just keep doing what you’re doing. If you’re truly concerned about the bath linens, you could try stripping them to freshen them up, and then start adding some extras in the wash machine during the wash cycle. You can check out this post for some ides.
I use dr bronners (diluted) for hand soap and body wash. We have a water softener, & I always wash towels and wash cloths on hot, regular cycle to be sure to get all of the oil based soap (& dirt & ickies) out. But now I’m concerned its not really getting bath linens clean!
I use all free & clear (I have incredibly sensitive skin, and so does my son). Do you think I should strip them?
I am having such sad and mixed emotions! The dr bronners has been a miracle on my skin, severe eczema has tormented me my whole life….& the all is the only free & clear i’ve tried that doesn’t cause a skin reaction! But one of the links you gave said all can cause residue too!?! Help!
Hey Rachel, I can’t say for sure about All Free & Clear. I do know that most conventional detergents by default can leave a residue, especially if they’re claiming “brighter and whiter whites!” – the optical brighteners they add that allow them to make those claims are, by their nature, going to remain on the laundry to make it *seem* like it’s brighter and whiter. It’s crazy, I know.
That being said, if you’re not having any issues, I would just keep doing what you’re doing. If you’re truly concerned about the bath linens, you could try stripping them to freshen them up, and then start adding some extras in the wash machine during the wash cycle. You can check out this post for some ides.
Thank you so much for this! I only used homemade laundry soap for a few months and although the first two to three washes were really clean and fresh, it just got worse and worse over time. We have really really hard water (which I had taken in consideration regarding the ingredient ratio) and our clothes just got stiffer and stiffer and the colours, especially black, started to look very greyish. I then noticed after a few months, that our machine had a grey/white residue inside the drum. I think it took me three 90° C cleaning cycles with citric acid to get it back to a good condition. During these cycles, the water inside the machine looked like your stripping water but with little pieces mixed in… gross. I switched back to our natural detergent from before, which I had always been happy with. While this improved the situation drastically, the results just weren’t as good as before the homemade laundry soap. I have a tub full of dark clothes stripping now and hope this will be the solution, the water already looks very murky ;). A tip for fellow German/European readers: I couldn’t find the Gro Via Mighty Bubbles here, but found “miofresh nappy cleanser”, which seems to have the same/similar ingredients :).
Oh my, Sophia, what a story! I’m glad you’re slowly figuring this out and hopefully reversing the damage. Thank you so much for sharing your tips, especially for our European readers!
Hello, I´m from Germany, and have used DIY soap for a long time. I noticed that my clothes are not fresh and clean any longer. Now I know why 🙁 Thanks for your information Sarah.
I have been looking for GroVia Mighty Bubbles. I really need them but cannot get them anywhere. I even cannot get the miofresh nappy cleanser. What shall I do ??! I don´t need the DIY solution because it won´t work aswell. Please Help me !
Hey Carmen, aww I’m so sorry that you can’t find the GroVia mighty bubbles anywhere. I would seriously recommend the DIY solution as it will definitely help. I used it on my mom’s towels and linens, and it completely changed them and brought them back to life!
Thank you so much for this! I only used homemade laundry soap for a few months and although the first two to three washes were really clean and fresh, it just got worse and worse over time. We have really really hard water (which I had taken in consideration regarding the ingredient ratio) and our clothes just got stiffer and stiffer and the colours, especially black, started to look very greyish. I then noticed after a few months, that our machine had a grey/white residue inside the drum. I think it took me three 90° C cleaning cycles with citric acid to get it back to a good condition. During these cycles, the water inside the machine looked like your stripping water but with little pieces mixed in… gross. I switched back to our natural detergent from before, which I had always been happy with. While this improved the situation drastically, the results just weren’t as good as before the homemade laundry soap. I have a tub full of dark clothes stripping now and hope this will be the solution, the water already looks very murky ;). A tip for fellow German/European readers: I couldn’t find the Gro Via Mighty Bubbles here, but found “miofresh nappy cleanser”, which seems to have the same/similar ingredients :).
Oh my, Sophia, what a story! I’m glad you’re slowly figuring this out and hopefully reversing the damage. Thank you so much for sharing your tips, especially for our European readers!
Hello, I´m from Germany, and have used DIY soap for a long time. I noticed that my clothes are not fresh and clean any longer. Now I know why 🙁 Thanks for your information Sarah.
I have been looking for GroVia Mighty Bubbles. I really need them but cannot get them anywhere. I even cannot get the miofresh nappy cleanser. What shall I do ??! I don´t need the DIY solution because it won´t work aswell. Please Help me !
Hey Carmen, aww I’m so sorry that you can’t find the GroVia mighty bubbles anywhere. I would seriously recommend the DIY solution as it will definitely help. I used it on my mom’s towels and linens, and it completely changed them and brought them back to life!
Have you done jeans, tshirts, hoodies!? I’ve been using a natural laundry soap and noticed a smell. I now want to strip them but worried about doing jeans tshirts and hoodies.
I haven’t done them because I was worried like you. For those items, I would suggest a hot water soak with some laundry detergent (not soap), and borax, washing soda, and baking soda. You can do this right in your washing machine if it allows you to leave the lid open to soak items.
Here’s what you do:
1. Add laundry detergent to empty washer
2. Add 1 cup each of washing soda, baking soda, and borax
3. Set the washer to hot water, and turn it on
4. As it fills with water, try to dissolve all the powders by twisting the drum around, or use a spoon to stir it all into the water
5. Then add your clothes, leave the lid open, and let it all soak for 2-3 hours.
6. After the time is up, close the lid, and let the washer finish the cycle. At this point, you may choose to switch the water temperature back to “warm” or “cold” to protect your items from shrinkage, etc.
7. Dry your items as usual.
This is the method I usually use when helping people strip their linens and towels that have a build-up from commercial fabric softeners like Downy, etc. But I had someone try this method on their regular laundry with the minor change of switching the water temperature before starting the cycle in order to protect the clothes from shrinking, and she reported good results!
Hi Sarah, I do have a question: does Washing Soda harm your washing mashine?
And what about Salt? I heard salt does harm, when the Maschine has Aluminium parts. So if it turns out my washing mashine has Alumium parts, what do I use then? Kind regards !
I don’t know about salt, but yes washing soda can harm aluminum parts, but I’m not sure what to use instead. I would probably just leave out the washing soda and just use baking soda and borax instead.
Hi
U saying the home laundry soap is actually bad correct but how about the home made laundry detergent? I used young living laundry detergent but since is strong I combined with baking soda and washing soda … bc my kids has terrible skin rash with the regular detergents and this laundry help them too with their allergies so do I recommend to strip the clothes too??
Have you done jeans, tshirts, hoodies!? I’ve been using a natural laundry soap and noticed a smell. I now want to strip them but worried about doing jeans tshirts and hoodies.
I haven’t done them because I was worried like you. For those items, I would suggest a hot water soak with some laundry detergent (not soap), and borax, washing soda, and baking soda. You can do this right in your washing machine if it allows you to leave the lid open to soak items.
Here’s what you do:
1. Add laundry detergent to empty washer
2. Add 1 cup each of washing soda, baking soda, and borax
3. Set the washer to hot water, and turn it on
4. As it fills with water, try to dissolve all the powders by twisting the drum around, or use a spoon to stir it all into the water
5. Then add your clothes, leave the lid open, and let it all soak for 2-3 hours.
6. After the time is up, close the lid, and let the washer finish the cycle. At this point, you may choose to switch the water temperature back to “warm” or “cold” to protect your items from shrinkage, etc.
7. Dry your items as usual.
This is the method I usually use when helping people strip their linens and towels that have a build-up from commercial fabric softeners like Downy, etc. But I had someone try this method on their regular laundry with the minor change of switching the water temperature before starting the cycle in order to protect the clothes from shrinking, and she reported good results!
Hi Sarah, I do have a question: does Washing Soda harm your washing mashine?
And what about Salt? I heard salt does harm, when the Maschine has Aluminium parts. So if it turns out my washing mashine has Alumium parts, what do I use then? Kind regards !
I don’t know about salt, but yes washing soda can harm aluminum parts, but I’m not sure what to use instead. I would probably just leave out the washing soda and just use baking soda and borax instead.
Hi
U saying the home laundry soap is actually bad correct but how about the home made laundry detergent? I used young living laundry detergent but since is strong I combined with baking soda and washing soda … bc my kids has terrible skin rash with the regular detergents and this laundry help them too with their allergies so do I recommend to strip the clothes too??
It’s entirely up to you, Helmy. It’s only recommended if you feel that there is buildup on your laundry. If everything seems fine, then there’s no need to strip it.
I’ve never used homemade laundry soap. But I just stripped my boys bedding. They both have quilts or blankets that they’ve had for years. These blankets have been washed periodically but my youngest said his didnt smell great anymore. I did a homemade strip and was shocked at the disgusting water and smell. They do smell good and feel better now.
Yay for fresh, clean laundry! Yes, even the commercial stuff leaves behind a buildup from the detergent and fabric softeners – they’re actually designed that way! Something I always recommend before switching to a natural detergent is to strip your laundry before switching to get rid of all the buildup that has accumulated over the years.
If you don’t go back to whatever it was that caused the buildup in the first place (whether that’s homemade soap or even conventional fabric softeners, etc), you shouldn’t need to do it more than once! That being said, I do like to add a tablespoon of borax and washing soda to most laundry loads just to keep things fresh.
If you don’t go back to whatever it was that caused the buildup in the first place (whether that’s homemade soap or even conventional fabric softeners, etc), you shouldn’t need to do it more than once! That being said, I do like to add a tablespoon of borax and washing soda to most laundry loads just to keep things fresh.
I have been using my own homemade detergent combo of borax, washing soda, sometimes baking soda and then adding dr bronners castile liquid soap for I guess about 15 years. I haven’t had too much problem until this last year as we’ve moved to a new house with a well with hard water. Anyhow, I’m noticing towels that aren’t absorbent etc. I have a family member that recommended soaking in the H20 at home oxy clean. Instead I tried the regular cheaper version of oxy clean and that didn’t work but maybe I didn’t soak long enough. Do you have any experience with oxy clean to strip? Any knowledge of why or why not it wouldn’t work? Doing the laundry for six people and soaking in the bathtub is not feasible. Would you recommend the homemade diy solution in the washing machine or the grovia tablets for the highest success rate? Thank you for the information and for your time!!
Furthermore, it sounds like from what you have said, after stripping, if I just replace the hemp castille liquid soap with dr bronners sals liquid suds then that should fix my problem long term, correct?
It should, yes. However, Sal Suds can be quite pricey, depending on how much you use. But yes, since Sal Suds is a detergent, and not a soap, it should be ok longterm.
Thank you s much for clarifying this. I recently started using sal suds for laundry as a beta test (I’ve used plant-based detergents in the past and always found my laundry had a terrible funk/mildew smell weeks later) and started to panic thinking it was a Castile soap product that would gunk up my machine. I am still on the hunt for a non-toxic, zero waste/plastic free, detergent that actually works. A tall order, I know, but if you know of any, I’m all ears! I am also excited to see a way to strip laundry that doesn’t use Tide. I’d avoided trying for that reason but now I may have a project on my hands. I’m so happy I came across this Blog!
I don’t have experience using oxy clean to strip the laundry, but oh my goodness YES you can use the washing machine to do the DIY solution! I’m sorry it wasn’t clear in the post, but here’s where I mentioned it:
“If using the DIY solution, you can do this right in your washing machine. Add the solution to the bottom of the washer, then set it for a hot water wash. As the water fills the drum, stir the water a bit to dissolve the powders.”
I would say go ahead and try the DIY solution in the machine before trying to source the GroVia tablets. Those tablets can be a bit harsh as well, so may want to try one more option before resorting to them.
Sarah, does the stripping have a Max time frame it can be left? Say I mix this up and leave my towels when I leave for work and deal with them when I get home? Would leaving them for 8 hours cause problems?
I’ve never left it that long, but I don’t see a reason why it would cause problems. You could try it with a small batch in a bucket maybe to test it out first.
Sarah, does the stripping have a Max time frame it can be left? Say I mix this up and leave my towels when I leave for work and deal with them when I get home? Would leaving them for 8 hours cause problems?
I’ve never left it that long, but I don’t see a reason why it would cause problems. You could try it with a small batch in a bucket maybe to test it out first.
Where has this blog post been?? Thank you for doing this. Your wisdom on these topics is showing me how easy it is to live non-toxic. And now I need to get those pods. Clicking over to add them to my list. Thank you Sarah!!
Aww, you’re very welcome, Jen! Glad I could help 🙂
My HE front load washing machine has water pooling in the rubber gasket at the door opening. I also use a DIY homemade detergent of Dr. Bronners, washing soda, and Borax. I found your post when I was searching for reasons why my machine has a water backup. I suspect it’s the Dr. Bronners “soap” as it’s not a detergent and may be causing buildup in the inside of my machine.
Im going to try stripping as you have suggested to see if this resolves the issue. Thanks for the good information!
Good luck!
all you have to do is add a laundry detergent to your homemade laundry soap – i’ve used for 15 years with no build up this way. And vinegar as a fabric softener. So just choose your fav green laundry stuff and add like 2-6 cup in your 5 gal. bucket with your soap, washing soda and borax.
Yes, I’m starting to recommend that now for people who really love using the homemade version. Even a small amount of actual detergent will help a lot, so thanks for sharing an approximate measurement to add!
Christina, I believe if you switch from Dr Bronner’s Castille soap to Dr Bronner’s Sal Suds this will solve your problem. Castille soap CANNOT be used with a vinegar rinse, while Sal Suds absolutely can. I’ve been using Sal Suds for all my laundry and general cleaning for a while now, and am happy with it.
You are correct that you cannot mix Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap and Vinegar together, they cancel each other out basically…you end up with a gloopy mess….but you absolutely CAN use vinegar in your rinse cycle to get rid of any excess soap scum and soften your clothes.
Where has this blog post been?? Thank you for doing this. Your wisdom on these topics is showing me how easy it is to live non-toxic. And now I need to get those pods. Clicking over to add them to my list. Thank you Sarah!!
Aww, you’re very welcome, Jen! Glad I could help 🙂
My HE front load washing machine has water pooling in the rubber gasket at the door opening. I also use a DIY homemade detergent of Dr. Bronners, washing soda, and Borax. I found your post when I was searching for reasons why my machine has a water backup. I suspect it’s the Dr. Bronners “soap” as it’s not a detergent and may be causing buildup in the inside of my machine.
Im going to try stripping as you have suggested to see if this resolves the issue. Thanks for the good information!
Good luck!
all you have to do is add a laundry detergent to your homemade laundry soap – i’ve used for 15 years with no build up this way. And vinegar as a fabric softener. So just choose your fav green laundry stuff and add like 2-6 cup in your 5 gal. bucket with your soap, washing soda and borax.
Yes, I’m starting to recommend that now for people who really love using the homemade version. Even a small amount of actual detergent will help a lot, so thanks for sharing an approximate measurement to add!
Christina, I believe if you switch from Dr Bronner’s Castille soap to Dr Bronner’s Sal Suds this will solve your problem. Castille soap CANNOT be used with a vinegar rinse, while Sal Suds absolutely can. I’ve been using Sal Suds for all my laundry and general cleaning for a while now, and am happy with it.
You are correct that you cannot mix Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap and Vinegar together, they cancel each other out basically…you end up with a gloopy mess….but you absolutely CAN use vinegar in your rinse cycle to get rid of any excess soap scum and soften your clothes.
Will just switching to proper detergent help or do i have to strip everything first?
That all depends on how long you’ve been using your homemade laundry soap. Since I’d been using mine for well over 5 years, I knew I just had to strip it all. If I was using it for maybe a year or so, then I’d probably strip only the items that I believe really needed it. So a different question to ask is: what laundry items smell/look/feel like they have a buildup problem? And then go from there. Best of luck to you!
Will just switching to proper detergent help or do i have to strip everything first?
That all depends on how long you’ve been using your homemade laundry soap. Since I’d been using mine for well over 5 years, I knew I just had to strip it all. If I was using it for maybe a year or so, then I’d probably strip only the items that I believe really needed it. So a different question to ask is: what laundry items smell/look/feel like they have a buildup problem? And then go from there. Best of luck to you!
What are you using for laundry soap now? Have you tried the stripping with store bought laundry soap to see if it does the same thing?
I would love to try the stripping on a load of laundry that’s been washed in regular detergent! I just need to find someone who will let me strip their laundry, LOL. Maybe I have a project for the next time I visit my mom. 😉
And to answer your first question, I’m using a detergent from a Canadian company called Nature Clean. I’m also putting together a guide to help you choose a safe, non-toxic laundry detergent as well.
There are a few considerations to take into account. One of these considerations is basic chemistry. Most home.ade laundry detergents have borax, washing soda, and a laundry soap (example fels naptha, site, octagon, etc….). This mixture is alkaline.
For the formula to work optimally, you absolutely must reverse to acid for rinse. Simple solution add vinegar to your rinse water.
The other considerations: gentler soaps like Kirk’s or Dr. Bonner’s have many uses but are not ideally suited for this type of alchemy.
Sure, the dry mix is more convenient but again, chemistry is part of what made this work so well for our grandma’s…. The step by step method of making the liquid version (that is constantly generating and releasing oxygen) is what works. Make it in small batches, keep in loosely covered containers so it won’t explode, tightly cap immediately before use and shake well. Dispense the amount you need and leave the lid loose. Better yet, do like grandma and store it in a bucket covered with a cloth and stir before each use. Use a soup ladle to scoop up what you need.
This can work in HE machines but seems to better suited for top load old-school machines. Really bad stains on light colored cotton or linen? Easy, just pause the top loader to let soak with the soupy clumpy detergent once the water has filled up.
My grandma has said several times to many people “do this the way it is supposed to be done and it works, do it any other way and it won’t”.
Again, the magic in grandma’s Lau dry soap is, was, and will always be the chemistry involved. All the shortcuts and conveniences remove the full effect of the chemistry.
Never ever use anything else to rinse but vinegar in your rinse water. Plain cheap white vinegar. Never use fabric softener in the wash or dryer. Use wool laundry balls instead.
Adrraiya, I have to completely agree with you! You’re right – it’s all the shortcuts and conveniences that we’ve concocted that have greatly reduced the effectiveness of these products. Thanks so much for sharing!
What are you using for laundry soap now? Have you tried the stripping with store bought laundry soap to see if it does the same thing?
I would love to try the stripping on a load of laundry that’s been washed in regular detergent! I just need to find someone who will let me strip their laundry, LOL. Maybe I have a project for the next time I visit my mom. 😉
And to answer your first question, I’m using a detergent from a Canadian company called Nature Clean. I’m also putting together a guide to help you choose a safe, non-toxic laundry detergent as well.
There are a few considerations to take into account. One of these considerations is basic chemistry. Most home.ade laundry detergents have borax, washing soda, and a laundry soap (example fels naptha, site, octagon, etc….). This mixture is alkaline.
For the formula to work optimally, you absolutely must reverse to acid for rinse. Simple solution add vinegar to your rinse water.
The other considerations: gentler soaps like Kirk’s or Dr. Bonner’s have many uses but are not ideally suited for this type of alchemy.
Sure, the dry mix is more convenient but again, chemistry is part of what made this work so well for our grandma’s…. The step by step method of making the liquid version (that is constantly generating and releasing oxygen) is what works. Make it in small batches, keep in loosely covered containers so it won’t explode, tightly cap immediately before use and shake well. Dispense the amount you need and leave the lid loose. Better yet, do like grandma and store it in a bucket covered with a cloth and stir before each use. Use a soup ladle to scoop up what you need.
This can work in HE machines but seems to better suited for top load old-school machines. Really bad stains on light colored cotton or linen? Easy, just pause the top loader to let soak with the soupy clumpy detergent once the water has filled up.
My grandma has said several times to many people “do this the way it is supposed to be done and it works, do it any other way and it won’t”.
Again, the magic in grandma’s Lau dry soap is, was, and will always be the chemistry involved. All the shortcuts and conveniences remove the full effect of the chemistry.
Never ever use anything else to rinse but vinegar in your rinse water. Plain cheap white vinegar. Never use fabric softener in the wash or dryer. Use wool laundry balls instead.
Adrraiya, I have to completely agree with you! You’re right – it’s all the shortcuts and conveniences that we’ve concocted that have greatly reduced the effectiveness of these products. Thanks so much for sharing!
You mentioned making your own stripping agent, where is the recipe? Thank you for the information…
Hi Shirley,
I actually use the premade solution, GroVia Mighty Bubbles, but under the first section in the post called “Laundry Stripping: The Condensed Version” there are 2 links that have more info and recipes for you to try. I’ve included those links below for you:
http://www.fortheloveofclean.com/laundry-love/special/strip-deep-clean-or-sanitize/strip/
http://www.fluffloveuniversity.com/troubleshooting/solving-stinky-diaper-problems/how-to-strip-your-cloth-diapers/
Hope that helps!
You mentioned making your own stripping agent, where is the recipe? Thank you for the information…
Hi Shirley,
I actually use the premade solution, GroVia Mighty Bubbles, but under the first section in the post called “Laundry Stripping: The Condensed Version” there are 2 links that have more info and recipes for you to try. I’ve included those links below for you:
http://www.fortheloveofclean.com/laundry-love/special/strip-deep-clean-or-sanitize/strip/
http://www.fluffloveuniversity.com/troubleshooting/solving-stinky-diaper-problems/how-to-strip-your-cloth-diapers/
Hope that helps!
For the record: both of these women had the same results stripping their laundry, and both of them use regular laundry detergent (Purex for the first, and All Free and Clear for the second.) I don’t think your homemade laundry soap is to blame.
http://taliashewrote.com/laundry-stripping/
http://www.agentathletica.com/deep-clean-workout-clothes-using-rlr-laundry-stripping-treatment/
Oh my goodness, thank you so much for sharing these links with me! I’ve been hoping to find someone who tested this after using regular detergent so we could compare.
Thanks again, Danielle, I’m going to take a look and reassess.
Take care. 😊
For the record: both of these women had the same results stripping their laundry, and both of them use regular laundry detergent (Purex for the first, and All Free and Clear for the second.) I don’t think your homemade laundry soap is to blame.
http://taliashewrote.com/laundry-stripping/
http://www.agentathletica.com/deep-clean-workout-clothes-using-rlr-laundry-stripping-treatment/
Oh my goodness, thank you so much for sharing these links with me! I’ve been hoping to find someone who tested this after using regular detergent so we could compare.
Thanks again, Danielle, I’m going to take a look and reassess.
Take care. 😊
Laundry never feels stiff or looks dingy when white vinegar is used as fabric softener. It breaks down mineral build up and disinfects laundry. Soap does build up in washer boot tho, and I’ve read it can damage the pump too. Just had mine replaced. I’ve been using DIY detergent for about 5 yrs. Stripped laundry with baking soda and white vinegar in warm/warm wash. There was no excess soap or visable bubbles coming from my laundry. Everything was very absorbent beforehand (even microfiber fabrics). I’m guessing this is bcuz I’ve always used vinegar as a fabric softener. I have used baking soda and vinegar to unclog my drains many times so I’m feeling confident that it will breakdown the soap in my washer boot as well. I have read that the 50/50 mix of borax and washing soda works great, so I may try that next time I use homemade. Yesterday I purchased commercial brand bottle to see if I notice a difference after reading many articles on this topic. My repairman did recommend one of the “washer cleaners”. They were $ 7-10! Basically citric acid, to break down build up of minerals and remove odors from machine. I can do that with citric acid or vinegar for way less than that! Also noticed in microprint, that one was made by Whirlpool, hence the $10 pricetag, I’m sure
Laundry never feels stiff or looks dingy when white vinegar is used as fabric softener. It breaks down mineral build up and disinfects laundry. Soap does build up in washer boot tho, and I’ve read it can damage the pump too. Just had mine replaced. I’ve been using DIY detergent for about 5 yrs. Stripped laundry with baking soda and white vinegar in warm/warm wash. There was no excess soap or visable bubbles coming from my laundry. Everything was very absorbent beforehand (even microfiber fabrics). I’m guessing this is bcuz I’ve always used vinegar as a fabric softener. I have used baking soda and vinegar to unclog my drains many times so I’m feeling confident that it will breakdown the soap in my washer boot as well. I have read that the 50/50 mix of borax and washing soda works great, so I may try that next time I use homemade. Yesterday I purchased commercial brand bottle to see if I notice a difference after reading many articles on this topic. My repairman did recommend one of the “washer cleaners”. They were $ 7-10! Basically citric acid, to break down build up of minerals and remove odors from machine. I can do that with citric acid or vinegar for way less than that! Also noticed in microprint, that one was made by Whirlpool, hence the $10 pricetag, I’m sure
I use dr bronners (diluted) for hand soap and body wash. We have a water softener, & I always wash towels and wash cloths on hot, regular cycle to be sure to get all of the oil based soap (& dirt & ickies) out. But now I’m concerned its not really getting bath linens clean!
I use all free & clear (I have incredibly sensitive skin, and so does my son). Do you think I should strip them?
I am having such sad and mixed emotions! The dr bronners has been a miracle on my skin, severe eczema has tormented me my whole life….& the all is the only free & clear i’ve tried that doesn’t cause a skin reaction! But one of the links you gave said all can cause residue too!?! Help!
Hey Rachel, I can’t say for sure about All Free & Clear. I do know that most conventional detergents by default can leave a residue, especially if they’re claiming “brighter and whiter whites!” – the optical brighteners they add that allow them to make those claims are, by their nature, going to remain on the laundry to make it *seem* like it’s brighter and whiter. It’s crazy, I know.
That being said, if you’re not having any issues, I would just keep doing what you’re doing. If you’re truly concerned about the bath linens, you could try stripping them to freshen them up, and then start adding some extras in the wash machine during the wash cycle. You can check out this post for some ides.
I use dr bronners (diluted) for hand soap and body wash. We have a water softener, & I always wash towels and wash cloths on hot, regular cycle to be sure to get all of the oil based soap (& dirt & ickies) out. But now I’m concerned its not really getting bath linens clean!
I use all free & clear (I have incredibly sensitive skin, and so does my son). Do you think I should strip them?
I am having such sad and mixed emotions! The dr bronners has been a miracle on my skin, severe eczema has tormented me my whole life….& the all is the only free & clear i’ve tried that doesn’t cause a skin reaction! But one of the links you gave said all can cause residue too!?! Help!
Hey Rachel, I can’t say for sure about All Free & Clear. I do know that most conventional detergents by default can leave a residue, especially if they’re claiming “brighter and whiter whites!” – the optical brighteners they add that allow them to make those claims are, by their nature, going to remain on the laundry to make it *seem* like it’s brighter and whiter. It’s crazy, I know.
That being said, if you’re not having any issues, I would just keep doing what you’re doing. If you’re truly concerned about the bath linens, you could try stripping them to freshen them up, and then start adding some extras in the wash machine during the wash cycle. You can check out this post for some ides.
Thank you so much for this! I only used homemade laundry soap for a few months and although the first two to three washes were really clean and fresh, it just got worse and worse over time. We have really really hard water (which I had taken in consideration regarding the ingredient ratio) and our clothes just got stiffer and stiffer and the colours, especially black, started to look very greyish. I then noticed after a few months, that our machine had a grey/white residue inside the drum. I think it took me three 90° C cleaning cycles with citric acid to get it back to a good condition. During these cycles, the water inside the machine looked like your stripping water but with little pieces mixed in… gross. I switched back to our natural detergent from before, which I had always been happy with. While this improved the situation drastically, the results just weren’t as good as before the homemade laundry soap. I have a tub full of dark clothes stripping now and hope this will be the solution, the water already looks very murky ;). A tip for fellow German/European readers: I couldn’t find the Gro Via Mighty Bubbles here, but found “miofresh nappy cleanser”, which seems to have the same/similar ingredients :).
Oh my, Sophia, what a story! I’m glad you’re slowly figuring this out and hopefully reversing the damage. Thank you so much for sharing your tips, especially for our European readers!
Hello, I´m from Germany, and have used DIY soap for a long time. I noticed that my clothes are not fresh and clean any longer. Now I know why 🙁 Thanks for your information Sarah.
I have been looking for GroVia Mighty Bubbles. I really need them but cannot get them anywhere. I even cannot get the miofresh nappy cleanser. What shall I do ??! I don´t need the DIY solution because it won´t work aswell. Please Help me !
Hey Carmen, aww I’m so sorry that you can’t find the GroVia mighty bubbles anywhere. I would seriously recommend the DIY solution as it will definitely help. I used it on my mom’s towels and linens, and it completely changed them and brought them back to life!
Thank you so much for this! I only used homemade laundry soap for a few months and although the first two to three washes were really clean and fresh, it just got worse and worse over time. We have really really hard water (which I had taken in consideration regarding the ingredient ratio) and our clothes just got stiffer and stiffer and the colours, especially black, started to look very greyish. I then noticed after a few months, that our machine had a grey/white residue inside the drum. I think it took me three 90° C cleaning cycles with citric acid to get it back to a good condition. During these cycles, the water inside the machine looked like your stripping water but with little pieces mixed in… gross. I switched back to our natural detergent from before, which I had always been happy with. While this improved the situation drastically, the results just weren’t as good as before the homemade laundry soap. I have a tub full of dark clothes stripping now and hope this will be the solution, the water already looks very murky ;). A tip for fellow German/European readers: I couldn’t find the Gro Via Mighty Bubbles here, but found “miofresh nappy cleanser”, which seems to have the same/similar ingredients :).
Oh my, Sophia, what a story! I’m glad you’re slowly figuring this out and hopefully reversing the damage. Thank you so much for sharing your tips, especially for our European readers!
Hello, I´m from Germany, and have used DIY soap for a long time. I noticed that my clothes are not fresh and clean any longer. Now I know why 🙁 Thanks for your information Sarah.
I have been looking for GroVia Mighty Bubbles. I really need them but cannot get them anywhere. I even cannot get the miofresh nappy cleanser. What shall I do ??! I don´t need the DIY solution because it won´t work aswell. Please Help me !
Hey Carmen, aww I’m so sorry that you can’t find the GroVia mighty bubbles anywhere. I would seriously recommend the DIY solution as it will definitely help. I used it on my mom’s towels and linens, and it completely changed them and brought them back to life!
Try using a dish washing liquid to strip clean laundry soap build up. It’s fantastic to use every 6-8 washes.
Great idea, Dolly!
Try using a dish washing liquid to strip clean laundry soap build up. It’s fantastic to use every 6-8 washes.
Great idea, Dolly!
Have you done jeans, tshirts, hoodies!? I’ve been using a natural laundry soap and noticed a smell. I now want to strip them but worried about doing jeans tshirts and hoodies.
I haven’t done them because I was worried like you. For those items, I would suggest a hot water soak with some laundry detergent (not soap), and borax, washing soda, and baking soda. You can do this right in your washing machine if it allows you to leave the lid open to soak items.
Here’s what you do:
1. Add laundry detergent to empty washer
2. Add 1 cup each of washing soda, baking soda, and borax
3. Set the washer to hot water, and turn it on
4. As it fills with water, try to dissolve all the powders by twisting the drum around, or use a spoon to stir it all into the water
5. Then add your clothes, leave the lid open, and let it all soak for 2-3 hours.
6. After the time is up, close the lid, and let the washer finish the cycle. At this point, you may choose to switch the water temperature back to “warm” or “cold” to protect your items from shrinkage, etc.
7. Dry your items as usual.
This is the method I usually use when helping people strip their linens and towels that have a build-up from commercial fabric softeners like Downy, etc. But I had someone try this method on their regular laundry with the minor change of switching the water temperature before starting the cycle in order to protect the clothes from shrinking, and she reported good results!
Hi Sarah, I do have a question: does Washing Soda harm your washing mashine?
And what about Salt? I heard salt does harm, when the Maschine has Aluminium parts. So if it turns out my washing mashine has Alumium parts, what do I use then? Kind regards !
I don’t know about salt, but yes washing soda can harm aluminum parts, but I’m not sure what to use instead. I would probably just leave out the washing soda and just use baking soda and borax instead.
Hi
U saying the home laundry soap is actually bad correct but how about the home made laundry detergent? I used young living laundry detergent but since is strong I combined with baking soda and washing soda … bc my kids has terrible skin rash with the regular detergents and this laundry help them too with their allergies so do I recommend to strip the clothes too??
Have you done jeans, tshirts, hoodies!? I’ve been using a natural laundry soap and noticed a smell. I now want to strip them but worried about doing jeans tshirts and hoodies.
I haven’t done them because I was worried like you. For those items, I would suggest a hot water soak with some laundry detergent (not soap), and borax, washing soda, and baking soda. You can do this right in your washing machine if it allows you to leave the lid open to soak items.
Here’s what you do:
1. Add laundry detergent to empty washer
2. Add 1 cup each of washing soda, baking soda, and borax
3. Set the washer to hot water, and turn it on
4. As it fills with water, try to dissolve all the powders by twisting the drum around, or use a spoon to stir it all into the water
5. Then add your clothes, leave the lid open, and let it all soak for 2-3 hours.
6. After the time is up, close the lid, and let the washer finish the cycle. At this point, you may choose to switch the water temperature back to “warm” or “cold” to protect your items from shrinkage, etc.
7. Dry your items as usual.
This is the method I usually use when helping people strip their linens and towels that have a build-up from commercial fabric softeners like Downy, etc. But I had someone try this method on their regular laundry with the minor change of switching the water temperature before starting the cycle in order to protect the clothes from shrinking, and she reported good results!
Hi Sarah, I do have a question: does Washing Soda harm your washing mashine?
And what about Salt? I heard salt does harm, when the Maschine has Aluminium parts. So if it turns out my washing mashine has Alumium parts, what do I use then? Kind regards !
I don’t know about salt, but yes washing soda can harm aluminum parts, but I’m not sure what to use instead. I would probably just leave out the washing soda and just use baking soda and borax instead.
Hi
U saying the home laundry soap is actually bad correct but how about the home made laundry detergent? I used young living laundry detergent but since is strong I combined with baking soda and washing soda … bc my kids has terrible skin rash with the regular detergents and this laundry help them too with their allergies so do I recommend to strip the clothes too??
It’s entirely up to you, Helmy. It’s only recommended if you feel that there is buildup on your laundry. If everything seems fine, then there’s no need to strip it.
I’ve never used homemade laundry soap. But I just stripped my boys bedding. They both have quilts or blankets that they’ve had for years. These blankets have been washed periodically but my youngest said his didnt smell great anymore. I did a homemade strip and was shocked at the disgusting water and smell. They do smell good and feel better now.
Yay for fresh, clean laundry! Yes, even the commercial stuff leaves behind a buildup from the detergent and fabric softeners – they’re actually designed that way! Something I always recommend before switching to a natural detergent is to strip your laundry before switching to get rid of all the buildup that has accumulated over the years.
How often do you recommend people do this process?
If you don’t go back to whatever it was that caused the buildup in the first place (whether that’s homemade soap or even conventional fabric softeners, etc), you shouldn’t need to do it more than once! That being said, I do like to add a tablespoon of borax and washing soda to most laundry loads just to keep things fresh.
How often do you recommend people do this process?
If you don’t go back to whatever it was that caused the buildup in the first place (whether that’s homemade soap or even conventional fabric softeners, etc), you shouldn’t need to do it more than once! That being said, I do like to add a tablespoon of borax and washing soda to most laundry loads just to keep things fresh.
Hi Sarah,
For the stripping process, do the clothes or linens have to be clean already?
Not necessarily
Hi Sarah,
For the stripping process, do the clothes or linens have to be clean already?
Not necessarily
I have been using my own homemade detergent combo of borax, washing soda, sometimes baking soda and then adding dr bronners castile liquid soap for I guess about 15 years. I haven’t had too much problem until this last year as we’ve moved to a new house with a well with hard water. Anyhow, I’m noticing towels that aren’t absorbent etc. I have a family member that recommended soaking in the H20 at home oxy clean. Instead I tried the regular cheaper version of oxy clean and that didn’t work but maybe I didn’t soak long enough. Do you have any experience with oxy clean to strip? Any knowledge of why or why not it wouldn’t work? Doing the laundry for six people and soaking in the bathtub is not feasible. Would you recommend the homemade diy solution in the washing machine or the grovia tablets for the highest success rate? Thank you for the information and for your time!!
Furthermore, it sounds like from what you have said, after stripping, if I just replace the hemp castille liquid soap with dr bronners sals liquid suds then that should fix my problem long term, correct?
It should, yes. However, Sal Suds can be quite pricey, depending on how much you use. But yes, since Sal Suds is a detergent, and not a soap, it should be ok longterm.
Thank you s much for clarifying this. I recently started using sal suds for laundry as a beta test (I’ve used plant-based detergents in the past and always found my laundry had a terrible funk/mildew smell weeks later) and started to panic thinking it was a Castile soap product that would gunk up my machine. I am still on the hunt for a non-toxic, zero waste/plastic free, detergent that actually works. A tall order, I know, but if you know of any, I’m all ears! I am also excited to see a way to strip laundry that doesn’t use Tide. I’d avoided trying for that reason but now I may have a project on my hands. I’m so happy I came across this Blog!
I’m so glad, Jessica!
Hey Emily,
I don’t have experience using oxy clean to strip the laundry, but oh my goodness YES you can use the washing machine to do the DIY solution! I’m sorry it wasn’t clear in the post, but here’s where I mentioned it:
“If using the DIY solution, you can do this right in your washing machine. Add the solution to the bottom of the washer, then set it for a hot water wash. As the water fills the drum, stir the water a bit to dissolve the powders.”
I would say go ahead and try the DIY solution in the machine before trying to source the GroVia tablets. Those tablets can be a bit harsh as well, so may want to try one more option before resorting to them.
Sarah, does the stripping have a Max time frame it can be left? Say I mix this up and leave my towels when I leave for work and deal with them when I get home? Would leaving them for 8 hours cause problems?
I’ve never left it that long, but I don’t see a reason why it would cause problems. You could try it with a small batch in a bucket maybe to test it out first.
Sarah, does the stripping have a Max time frame it can be left? Say I mix this up and leave my towels when I leave for work and deal with them when I get home? Would leaving them for 8 hours cause problems?
I’ve never left it that long, but I don’t see a reason why it would cause problems. You could try it with a small batch in a bucket maybe to test it out first.