In this blog post, we explain how to get rid of smells from your clothes without washing them. With these 6 easy non-washing methods, you can go a little longer between laundry loads. Not only will that save water and energy, but you'll also give your cherished outfits a longer life. Let's give our planet some love, one fresh outfit at a time!
#1: Hang Them - The simplest and oldest trick in the book! Sometimes all your clothes need is a little fresh air and sunshine to remove lingering smells. Hang your garments outdoors on a clothesline or even on a hanger near an open window to let nature work its magic.
#2: Steam Them - Steaming is not just for wrinkles – it's also a fantastic way to eliminate odours from your clothes. Use a garment steamer or hang them in a steam-filled bathroom while you're showering to release trapped smells and refresh your garments.
#3: Lemon Juice - Harness the natural power of lemons to banish stubborn odours. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and mist your clothes. Lemon's refreshing scent will neutralize smells, leaving your clothes feeling and smelling revitalized.
#4: Freeze Them - Yes, you read that right! Freezing your clothes can be an effective way to remove odours. Place your smelly clothes in a plastic bag and pop them in the freezer for a few hours. The cold temperatures will kill odour-causing bacteria, leaving your clothes odour-free.
#5: Vinegar - Vinegar is a versatile and eco-friendly deodorizer. Create a vinegar and water solution and spritz it on your clothes or add half a cup of vinegar to your laundry during the rinse cycle. Vinegar works wonders in neutralizing odours without leaving behind a lingering vinegar scent.
#6: Bicarbonate of Soda - Bicarbonate of soda (otherwise known as baking soda) is a tried-and-tested odour absorber. Make a bicarb soda paste by mixing it with water and gently rub it onto smelly areas of your clothes. Leave it for a few hours, then brush it off and enjoy fresh-smelling garments.
Now, armed with these 6 non-washing hacks, you're all set to preserve that fresh scent of your clothes while making fewer visits to the washing machine. Less laundry time and a boost to your eco-friendly credentials? It's a definite win-win situation!
What are your tips for removing smells from clothes? Share your hacks in the comments below!
FAQs
How do I remove musty smells from clothes without washing them?
Musty odours can be a real mood dampener. Sunlight and fresh air can work wonders to naturally refresh your garments, so try hanging them outside on a sunny day. Another trick is to place the clothes in a breathable bag with a sachet of dried lavender and bicarbonate of soda. Lavender's fragrance masks musty odours, while bicarb soda absorbs them.
How do I get sweat smells out of clothes?
Sweat odours, meet your match! Try applying a small amount of white vinegar diluted with water directly to the armpit area using a cloth, which helps neutralize the smell. Another solution is to sprinkle a bit of bicarbonate of soda onto the affected areas and then give the fabric a gentle shake to remove the excess.
How do I get smoke smells out of clothes?
Don't let smoky scents linger! Begin by hanging your clothes outside in an area with good airflow. Fresh air can be a powerful smoke odour eliminator. If the smell persists, try placing the clothes in a sealed container or bag with a few activated charcoal pieces. Charcoal has the magic ability to absorb and neutralize odours.
How do I get rid of perfume smells?
Perfume lingering where it's not wanted? To get rid of perfume smells, hang your clothes outdoors for a day, allowing the fresh air to dissipate the scent. You can also place the clothes in a well-ventilated area with a bowl of freshly ground coffee grounds. Coffee's strong aroma can help absorb the perfume smell.
]]>In this blog post, we're going to tackle the problem of limescale build-up in your iron with a simple and eco-friendly solution: vinegar!
Get ready to say goodbye to those stubborn wrinkles - and hello to an iron that glides like a superstar.
Descaling is all about getting rid of limescale, that pesky mineral build-up that wreaks havoc on your iron's steam production and ability to glide smoothly, not to mention leaving white chalky marks on your clothes. Regular descaling, typically done every 2-4 months, not only keeps your iron in top shape but also prolongs its lifespan. It's the secret to ensuring your iron performs optimally every time.
London is known for having some of the hardest water in the UK, and is no stranger to the challenges of limescale. This hard water is rich in calcium and magnesium compounds, a result of its journey through underground chalk and limestone formations before reaching our taps. So, when you spot those frustrating white chalky marks on your clothes and household surfaces, it's none other than limescale paying an unwelcome visit.
Don't worry; you're not alone in this struggle. And luckily we’ve got an eco-friendly solution up our sleeves - the vinegar method!
Rather than buying plastic bottles of iron cleaner, you can easily and naturally descale your iron using the natural power of vinegar. Here's how:
Grab your white vinegar and mix it with equal parts distilled water in a container. This simple concoction works wonders against limescale.
Pour the vinegar solution into the water tank, ensuring the bottom is covered. Leave it for around an hour, letting the vinegar work its magic on the limescale. Plug in the iron, crank it up to the highest steam setting, and hover it over a sink or a towel. Press the steam button, and watch the vinegar dissolve the limescale away!
Fill the water tank with clean water and give it one last steam to flush out any lingering vinegar smell or residue.
Nobody wants to deal with future limescale headaches. Here are some handy prevention tips:
Now that you're armed with the vinegar method, say goodbye to limescale and make ironing a breeze (or at least, a little less painful…)! Oh, and here's a little secret: vinegar isn't just for ironing but has numerous household uses. Check out our blog about white vinegar for cleaning to explore its full potential.
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Ah, the great debate: bicarbonate of soda vs baking soda. Although these terms often cause confusion, they are simply two names for the same substance - NaHCO3. Picture them as the dynamic duo of baking and cleaning!
Some folks across the pond in the US call it baking soda, while our friends in the UK, Australia and elsewhere tend to use the term bicarbonate of soda. But they are indeed one and the same!
Alright, let's start at the beginning. Bicarbonate of soda, also known as bicarb soda, is a magical compound with the formula NaHCO3 (sodium bicarbonate). It's like a tiny wizard that lives in your pantry, waiting to work its magic in the kitchen or clean nooks and crannies. Need your cupcakes to rise? Bicarb soda's got your back. Want to freshen up your fridge? Bicarb soda to the rescue!
Yes! Whatever you decide to call it, baking soda (or bicarbonate of soda) isn't just a culinary superhero; it's also an incredible cleaning sidekick. You can use it to make so many eco-friendly DIY products for cleaning at home.
Here are a few other tips for using bicarb soda in your cleaning routine:
#1: Freshen up carpets - Sprinkle baking soda liberally over your carpets, let it work its magic for a while, and then vacuum it up. Say goodbye to funky odours and hello to freshness!
#2: Sparkling kitchen surfaces - Create a paste by mixing bicarb soda with water, and let it scrub away all the grime and grease from your countertops, sinks, and appliances. It's like a spa treatment for your kitchen!
#3: Extra-clean laundry - Add a cup of bicarb soda to your regular detergent when doing laundry. Watch as it banishes stubborn stains, absorbs funky odours, and leaves your clothes looking brighter than a rainbow.
#4: Fridge deodorizer - Place an open container of bicarb soda in your refrigerator and wave farewell to unwanted odours. It absorbs those stinky smells like a pro!
Hold your mixing bowls, folks! We need to clear up a little confusion. Bicarbonate of soda and baking powder may seem like twins, but they're actually more like distant cousins. Baking powder is a mix of baking soda, an acidifying agent (like cream of tartar), and a moisture-absorbing agent (like cornstarch). Unlike baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and baking soda do not contain these additional ingredients and are used differently in recipes. So you can keep the baking powder for your fluffy baked goods, and out of your cleaning closet!
]]>Finally, it's time to put this debate to rest. Bicarbonate of soda and baking soda are indeed the same thing, like two peas in a pod. And they’re ready to tackle the cleaning challenges in your healthy, zero waste home!
If you're looking for an eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning solution for your home, look no further than white vinegar. Not only is it affordable and readily available, but it's also highly effective at cleaning and disinfecting a wide range of surfaces.
In this blog post, we'll explore the many benefits of using white vinegar for cleaning and provide tips for using it in your daily cleaning routine.
White vinegar, also known as distilled vinegar, is made by fermenting grain alcohol and then distilling the resulting mixture to remove impurities. The end result is a clear, acidic liquid that has a variety of uses, including cooking, pickling, and cleaning.
#1 Natural and Non-Toxic
Unlike many commercial cleaning products, vinegar is a natural and non-toxic cleaner. It's made from fermented ethanol, which is a natural substance that's safe for humans and the environment. This makes vinegar an excellent choice for those who are concerned about the use of harsh chemicals in their homes.
#2 Versatile
Vinegar is incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks. It can be used to clean floors, countertops, windows, and even laundry. It's also great for removing stains and deodorizing fabrics.
#3 Affordable
One of the biggest benefits of cleaning with vinegar is that it's incredibly affordable. A gallon of vinegar typically costs just a few dollars, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
One of the best things about white vinegar is how easy it is to use for cleaning. To make a cleaning solution with white vinegar, simply dilute it with water in a 1:1 ratio (equal parts vinegar and water). This creates a non-toxic and effective cleaning solution that's safe to use on most surfaces.
#1 Dilute with Water
Vinegar is highly acidic, which means it can be harsh on some surfaces. To avoid damaging surfaces, it's important to dilute vinegar with water before use. A good ratio to follow is one part vinegar to one part water.
#2 Test on a Small Area
Before using vinegar on a new surface, it's always a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. This will help you determine if vinegar is safe to use on the surface and will prevent any damage from occurring.
#3 Use for Stain Removal
Vinegar is excellent for removing stains from fabrics. To use vinegar for stain removal, simply apply it to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing as normal.
#4 Deodorize with Vinegar
Vinegar is also great for deodorizing fabrics. To deodorize a fabric, simply add a cup of vinegar to the wash cycle. This will help eliminate any unpleasant odors.
#5 Use as a Floor Cleaner
Vinegar is an excellent choice for cleaning floors. To use vinegar as a floor cleaner, mix one cup of vinegar with 4 litres of warm water. Use a mop to apply the solution to the floor, and then rinse with clean water.
While vinegar is an effective cleaning solution for many surfaces, there are a few things that you should avoid cleaning with vinegar. These include:
In most cases, it's a good idea to rinse the surface with water after cleaning with vinegar. This will help to remove any residual vinegar solution and prevent any damage to the surface over time.
Vinegar should not be mixed with bleach, as this can produce harmful fumes. It's also a good idea to avoid mixing vinegar with hydrogen peroxide, as this can produce a corrosive acid. However, vinegar can be safely mixed with baking soda, which can create a powerful cleaning solution that's great for removing tough stains.
If you don't like the smell of vinegar, you can try adding essential oils to the vinegar solution to mask the smell. Alternatively, you can use apple cider vinegar, which has a milder smell than white vinegar.
Vinegar is an effective solution for cleaning toilets. To use vinegar for toilet cleaning, simply pour one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a few hours. Then, scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and flush the toilet. You can also mix vinegar with baking soda for an extra powerful toilet cleaning solution.
Have you used vinegar to clean your home? Share your tips in the comments below!
And check out our cleaning collection for eco-friendly brushes and sponges.
]]>A few simple steps will reduce the negative impacts, resulting in laundry that’s better for your health, your wallet and the planet. There are tons of different ways you can avoid plastic bottles, hangers and pegs, and implement a new zero waste laundry routine.
#1: Ecoegg Laundry Egg
We love this cute alternative to mainstream washing detergent – candy-coloured eggs that save you money, stop you adding more plastic bottles to landfill, and save your back from carrying around those huge bottles of detergent! How? You secure natural cleaning pellets in your Ecoegg, pop it into your machine and the minerals in the pellets clean your clothes. The pellets last for up to 70 washes and the eggs last forever – the easiest way to do eco-laundry.
#2: Soap Berries
Soap berries (or soap nuts) might sound like a slightly off-the-wall way of achieving zero waste laundry, but converts fully swear by them! These 100% natural lifesavers grow on trees in India and Nepal and contain saponin, a natural eco-friendly detergent. Fastened in a muslin bag, they will release their cleaning properties into your washing leaving clothes clean, chemical-free and smelling a bit like apples.
#3: Refills From Your Zero Waste Shop
Finding a good zero waste shop in London is no longer like hitting gold dust, thankfully. They’re springing up everywhere, and this doesn’t only reduce the plastic packaging for your food. In most, you can also bring along bottles or containers to refill on all kinds of cleaning products, including eco-friendly detergents and fabric softeners.
#4: DIY Eco Washing Powder
If you’re passionate about living a more eco-friendly life, you’ll need to get a little bit creative. Zero waste laundry can be achieved by a little DIY – follow some simple instructions to combine grated soap, baking soda and essential oil and end up with eco washing powder that can be customised to your preferred fragrance.
#5: Stainless Steel Pegs
Be honest, how many times have you lost a plastic washing peg in the garden, or had one inexplicably break in your hand? Flimsy, non-biodegradable, and dangerously tempting for birds, those plastic pegs are no good. Stainless steel pegs, on the other hand, will last a lifetime and you can get ones that are guaranteed not to rust.
#6: Wall Mounted Clothes Airers
Tumble-drying clothes uses an astonishing amount of energy (not to mention your money when you get the electricity bill!). It’s easy to fall into the habit, but wooden racks to air-dry your clothes are easily installed in your home, and it doesn't take up a lot of space.
#7: Laundry Powder in Cardboard
You can see from these suggestions that eco-friendly laundry is not a million miles away. However, we know that sometimes these things might not be feasible either for financial reasons or simply where you live. So as a last resort, we’d say that buying eco washing powder in cardboard boxes, rather than plastic bottles or bags, is a step towards zero waste laundry that can be achieved on your supermarket run!
Have you switched to a zero waste laundry routine? What did you find easy and where did you struggle? Share and inspire others!
]]>Using soap berries for laundry and cleaning is a game-changer. Non-toxic, sustainable, and affordable, you'll never look at chemical detergents again!
So, what exactly are soap berries? Nope, not soap in the shape of berries, they are actually natural detergent nuts (technically fruit) that grow on trees. The soap berry tree, scientifically known as Sapindus Mukorossi, is native to India and Nepal. These nuts have traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat skin conditions but are now gaining popularity as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical detergents.
How do they work? Soap berries contain something called saponin, which is a natural detergent. When they're immersed in water, their shells absorb the liquid and release the saponin. This creates a mild foaming action, which helps to lift away dirt, stains, and odours from your clothes.
Now, you might be wondering how to use soap berries for laundry. The process is surprisingly simple. Just put the a few of them directly into your washing machine. Yes, it's that easy! The saponins are released into the washing water, where they circulate and work their magic on your clothes. While soap berries don't have the floral or fresh scents that many detergents do, they leave a pleasant trace of apples, and there's nothing chemical about them at all.
To use soap berries for laundry, simply place 4 to 6 nuts in a reusable muslin bag to prevent them from getting lost or stuck in the washing machine (since breaking your washing machine is not very sustainable!). Don’t worry if you don’t see bubbles, that’s normal. In fact, because soap berries don’t produce laundry suds, there’s less residue and they work for all machines. Whether you prefer cold or hot water, they can be used with both, allowing you to save energy in your home.
One of the great advantages of soap berries is that they are affordable and reusable. You can purchase a bunch of them for a reasonable price and use them multiple times. While there isn't an exact number of cycles that soap berries can be used for, a good rule of thumb is to compost them when the shells start to get soft and look grey. This way, there's no waste at all. Usually, soap berries can last for about 3 to 4 washes.
If you like the idea of having fragrant clothes after a wash, you can add a few drops of essential oils to the washbag before putting it in with your laundry. Lavender is always a winner, especially on clean sheets!
Soap berries aren’t just useful in the laundry. You can also use them for all kinds of cleaning purposes:
#1: All-Purpose Cleaner - Create an all-purpose cleaning solution by boiling a handful of soap berries in water. Strain the liquid and use it to clean surfaces, floors, and even windows. It is a safe and effective alternative to chemical cleaners.
#2: Dishwashing - Soap berries can be used to wash dishes, eliminating the need for traditional dishwashing detergents in plastic bottles. Simply boil a few of them in water to create a concentrated liquid, which can then be used to hand wash your dishes.
#3: Body Wash and Shampoo - Soap berries are gentle on the skin and hair, making them a fantastic natural alternative to commercial body washes and shampoos. Boil them in water to create a liquid that can be used as a body wash or shampoo.
#4. Pet Shampoo - Soap berries are safe for pets and can be used to create a gentle and natural shampoo for your furry friends. The mild formula works for sensitive skin and leaves their coats clean and fresh.
Once you get into using soap berries, there’ll be no stopping you! One of our favourite things about committing to a zero-waste lifestyle is discovering hero products like these, so we hope you enjoy these eco-friendly marvels too!
Ready to join the soap berry revolution? Check them out, alongside other eco-friendly options, in our laundry collection.
FAQs
Do soap berries actually work?
Absolutely! Soap berries are like little cleaning superheroes. They may look unassuming, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to cleaning your laundry and other household items. Thanks to the natural detergent called saponin found in soap berries, they effectively remove stains, dirt, and odours, leaving your clothes fresh and clean.
Are soap berries safe for skin?
Indeed! Soap berries are gentle on the skin, making them a fantastic choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to nature's touch. Soap berries have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for their soothing properties, so you can trust them to be skin-friendly.
Can you eat soap berries?
Well, we wouldn't recommend it. Soap berries are not meant for culinary adventures. They may look tempting, but their true superpower lies in cleaning, not satisfying your taste buds. So, let's keep them out of the kitchen and save them for their laundry-saving missions!
What is the difference between "soap berry" and "soap nut"?
Ah, the great soap berry vs. soap nut debate! Here's the scoop: "Soap berry" and "soap nut" are two terms that refer to the same fabulous little gems. They are both used to describe the natural detergent nuts that grow on the soap berry tree. So, whether you call them soap berries or soap nuts, you're talking about the same cleaning wonders!
How many times can you reuse soap berries?
While they won't last forever, these eco-friendly darlings can be reused multiple times. There's no exact number, as it depends on various factors, like the intensity of each wash and the individual berries. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect soap berries to work their magic for about 3 to 4 washes before they retire. Once they start to look soft and grey, it's time to compost them and bid them a fond farewell.
How do you grow soap berries?
Growing soap berries requires a touch of nature's magic and a warm, tropical environment. Soap berries come from the Sapindus Mukorossi tree, which is native to India and Nepal. If you have the right climate and green thumbs, you can try growing your own soap berry tree from seeds or saplings. Just imagine having your own supply of soap berries right in your backyard!
]]>If that isn’t scary enough, there’s more bad news. They’re also harmful to the environment; they’re made from synthetic plastic fibres that pollute waterways and aren’t biodegradable, so they’re sitting in landfills around the world.
It’s not all doom and gloom though, there are some awesome eco-friendly sponge alternatives out there to help you clean your kitchen; so what can you use instead of a plastic kitchen sponge?
Here are 7 alternatives to your kitchen sponge:
Handmade, durable and an awesome sponge alternative; once you unsponge, you won’t go back. The Unsponge is the ultimate eco-friendly sponge - washable, reusable and completely compostable; it will last for loads of washes, saving money on disposables in the long-run.
The Swedes are smart people; not only did they come up with Ikea but they also invented the Swedish dishcloth. Originally invented by a Swedish engineer in 1949, the Swedish dishcloth works like a dream in the kitchen. It’s made from 70% wood cellulose and 30% cotton making it long lasting and biodegradable. It absorbs 15 times it’s weight so is a great alternative to kitchen sponges, it dries quickly which means less bacteria and can be washed around 200 times so it’s extremely durable. If you haven’t discovered the Swedish dishcloth yet then you’ve been missing out - definitely one of our favourite eco-friendly products.
Natural dish brushes are a great alternative to kitchen sponges. The bristles on this dish brush are made from coconut fiber- tough enough to shift tough grease and build up, but soft enough to be used on non-stick pans and glassware. With a long handle made from sustainably sourced wood, you'll barely even get your hands wet!
A great alternative to kitchen sponges, we've seen the bamboo dish brush in many stylish zero waste kitchens! Once the bristles wear out, you can replace the dish brush head and slot in the new head. Then just put the used dish brush head in the compost to decompose.
Bamboo dish cloths are a great sponge alternative. They’re strong, absorbent and substantially more eco-friendly. Each bamboo sheet can be washed and reused about 100 times making them perfect for spills, dust and so much more.
These sponge scourers look the most like your plastic kitchen sponge - but they're actually 100% biodegradable! They're made from sisal (which comes from the agave plant) and cellulose, which comes from wood pulp. Not only are they better for the environment - these ecofriendly sponges don't absorb smells like your plastic kitchen sponge, plus they'll last a lot longer!
Need to do some heavy-duty scrubbing? Bamboo pot scrubbers are a great alternative to synthetic scourers. And they're not just handy for the dishes - you can actually use these eco-friendly dish scrubbers to clean everything from muddy boots, vegetables, nails or even brushing beards!
Use these 7 eco-friendly alternatives to replace your kitchen sponge; they’ll keep your kitchen sparkling clean, preventing germs and bacteria from spreading, as well as benefit the planet by saving all those kitchen sponges going to landfill and polluting our waterways.
Are you ready to ditch your plastic sponge? Check out our range of kitchen sponge alternatives
What can you use instead of a sponge?
Here are 7 alternatives to your kitchen sponge: #1: Unsponge. #2: Swedish dishcloths. #3: Coconut washing up brush. #4: Bamboo dishbrush #5: Bamboo dishcloths. #6: Cellulose sponge scourers. #7: Bamboo pot scrubbers.
How often should you throw out a sponge?
Experts recommend throwing out your dishwashing sponge every 2 weeks - all the more reason to switch to reusable!
Are kitchen sponges bad for the environment?
Green-and-yellow plastic kitchen sponges are harmful to the environment; they’re made from synthetic fibres that pollute waterways and aren’t biodegradable, so they’re sitting in landfills around the world.
How long do sponges take to decompose?
As green-and-yellow kitchen sponges are made of plastic, they can take hundreds of years to decompose. What's worse, even before they're thrown out, they shed microfibres into our waterways.
Are there biodegradable sponges?
There are lots of natural alternatives to your plastic kitchen sponge that will biodegrade naturally. Our favourites are sisal, which comes from the agave plant in Mexico, and coconut fibres - the unused part of the coconut, which would otherwise go to waste.
]]>Indoor pollution is a very real, and very potent problem in homes throughout the world today. There are a whole range of contributing factors to this, from dust and dirt to smoke and mould. However, there’s an even more threatening toxin in so many of our homes, which many people don’t even realise is a problem.
Chemicals from toxic cleaning products.
These threaten the quality of our homes, leading to potentially adverse effects on our health and wellbeing. Thankfully, there’s a green alternative. Homemade cleaning products made from natural ingredients are a fantastic way to clean your home without spreading harmful chemicals everywhere. An added bonus is that making your own products saves a lot of money as well!
Here are 4 simple recipes for DIY green cleaning products that you can easily make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
#1: Surface cleaner
Perfect for an all-purpose role in your home, to clean and disinfect almost any surface. From kitchen countertops, to bathroom benches, this cleaner has you covered.
Ingredients:
Pour all the ingredients into a spray bottle, and shake gently to mix. If you include the lemon juice, it should be stored in the fridge.
#2: Toilet cleaner
Achieve optimal cleanliness without the use of harsh chemicals. Fragrant (in a good way!) and effective, you’ll be surprised at how effective this mix is.
Ingredients:
Add the liquid ingredients to a spray bottle, then add the baking soda. Shake well to combine.
#3: Glass cleaner
Give your windows and other glass surfaces a streak-free shine. This glass cleaner is a winner and lasts for ages as well.
Ingredients:
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well. Use with a microfiber cloth for a spotless clean.
#4: Laundry powder
Extend the life of your fabrics by using this all-natural laundry powder recipe. Gentle on your clothing and your skin, this is a green alternative to the chemical-packed laundry liquids found on supermarket shelves.
Ingredients:
Blend all the ingredients together until you have a fine powder. Pour the mix into a container that has an air-tight seal.
]]>Ready to go green with your cleaning routine? Check out our cleaning products range. Rest assured that you’re maintaining a toxin-free home for yourself and your family. You won’t be disappointed!
What are microfibres?
The majority of our clothes are made from synthetic fibres like nylon, acrylic and polyester. Every time you wash these synthetic fabrics, microfibres are released into the water; one load of washing produces around 200,000 microfibres. They’re thinner than a strand of silk so they don’t get filtered and more often than not they end up as pollution in our waterways and oceans and on our beaches.
So, what’s the solution? The simple solution is washing only natural fabrics like bamboo and cotton. However, that’s not an option for many of us who have a wardrobe full of clothing made from synthetic fibres.
If you think it all sounds “too hard basket”, we’ve got some top tips that might help you get a handle on it and reduce your impact.
Here’s what you can do to reduce microfibre pollution:
Use a guppy friend when you wash
A guppy friend is a cute name for a microfibre laundry bag; the bag captures around 99% of microfibres released in the washing process.
Wash less frequently
Washing synthetic fabrics less frequently and for a shorter time will reduce your impact significantly.
Avoid the tumble dryer
Friction releases microfibres, so avoid the tumble dryer; it not only prevents microfibres going down the drain, but also saves electricity too. It’s a win, win.
Wash in cold water
A higher temperature is more likely to damage clothes and therefore release more microfibres.
Wash a full load every time
Washing a full load means less friction between the clothes, and less microfibres being released.
Switch to a liquid laundry soap
Laundry powder “scrubs” fabric and loosens more microfibres.
Dry spin clothes at lower revs
Higher revolutions increase the friction between the clothes and release more microfibres.
Use a cora ball when you wash
A cora ball is a microfibre-catching laundry ball designed to collect microfibres (and hair) when you wash, keeping those nasties out of our waterways.
Buy a washing machine lint filter
While these filters may be more costly, they will benefit the environment.
Buy clothes made from natural fibres only
Cotton, linen, wool and bamboo are natural fibres that not only look good, they’re beneficial for the environment; they will eventually break down unlike plastic microfibres.
Avoid purchasing fast fashion
Cheap, fast fashion items are most likely made from synthetic fibres so avoid them where possible; natural fibres tend to be more expensive but will last longer and are better for the planet.
Plastic microfibre pollution in our oceans is more prevalent now than ever before, so do your bit for the planet and use these top tips to reduce your impact.
]]>According to a recent University of Minnesota study, 83% of the world’s tap water is now contaminated with microscopic plastic particles.
Scientists, including the UK's Chief Medical Officer, are scrambling to figure out the human health impact of ingesting microplastics. Could it cause cancer or other diseases? Infertility? Will we all turn into plastic lego figures? It could take decades of studies to know. Let’s not wait around to find out.
Washing synthetic textiles (like polyester, nylon or acrylic) sends tiny plastic fibres into wastewater – up to 700,000 per cycle. Too small to be captured by wastewater plants, they eventually make their way into rivers, lakes and our oceans. The best way to avoid this is wearing natural fibres – like cotton, wool, linen or bamboo. But if you really can’t part with your comfy yoga pants or snuggly polar fleece, consider a guppyfriend washing bag to trap the plastic fibres.
Synthetic textile fibres are not the only cause of microplastic pollution. Another source is the estimated 8 million tonnes of plastic waste - bags, bottles, takeaway containers, forks, toothbrushes – ending up in our waterways each year, and breaking down into smaller particles. There’s no reason to use plastic detergent bottles when there are so many better alternatives:
Ditch the detergents altogether and try natural surfactants like soap nuts.
Search online for washing powder recipes made from natural ingredients like borax, castile soap bars, bicarbonate of soda – which can be bought in bulk in cardboard packaging. Use white vinegar or soak in soda crystals for tough stains (scroll down to our laundry cheat sheet).
Too busy to DIY? There are bulk stores constantly popping up in the UK who offer cleaning liquid refills. Another great alternative is Splosh – an online shop that sends you refills that fit neatly in your letterbox, which can be mixed with tap water at home. That makes a LOT more sense than shipping bottles of 80-90% water across the world.
One final word - the best way to reduce laundry waste is simply to wash your clothes less frequently. Let's be really clear here - we're not recommending any 4 day 'flip-em-over' dirty underwear tricks. But at the end of a long day, we tend to be in auto-pilot mode when we pull off our clothes and throw them in the laundry basket. You might be able to get a couple more wears from those jeans (Tommy Hilfiger actually never washes his jeans) or deal with that stain with a spot treatment. And that means laundry day might come around a little less often!
Laundry Powder |
1 cup Bicarbonate of Soda (bulk bins/paper) 1 cup Washing Soda (bulk bins/paper) 1 bar Pure Castile Soap (grated) Several drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)
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Underarm marks (from perspiration)
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Soak clothing in diluted vinegar before washing it in the usual way. Alternatively, soak the underarm area in white vinegar until saturated then wash as usual. It will remove any odours as well. Use a dilution of 2 parts water to 1 part white vinegar. |
Collars and Cuffs
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Rub a thick paste of bicarb soda and vinegar on to the stains. Allow to sit for a few hours before washing clothes in the usual way. |
Stain Remover
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Soak clothing in full strength vinegar for stains caused by grass, coffee, tea, fruits and berries. |
Prevent Colours Running
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Use white vinegar if something looks like it will bleed. Pour about half a cup for a load of washing. Just remember to keep darks and lights and whites separate, as usual. |
Remove stiffness from new jeans
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Wash jeans that are stiff for the first time with 250mL of vinegar. Make sure to turn the jeans inside out first. |
Prevent fading of coloured towels and quilts
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Add 150mL of vinegar to the wash to prevent fading. You can soak handmade or delicate quilts and blankets in lots of cold water with 250mL of vinegar the first time you wash them. |
Avoiding shiny marks when ironing
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Mix half vinegar and half water and put into a spritzer bottle. Use the spray when ironing to help remove iron-made creases or shiny areas in the fabric. |
Remove grease from suede
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Use a toothbrush which has been dipped in vinegar and gently brush over the grease spot. |
Deodorise a wool sweater
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Wash the sweater, then rinse in equal parts of vinegar and water to remove odours. |
*Based on 7 washes a week and 18 wash bottles
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Some of these products have a fresh scent. But although the room smells clean, these are just chemicals (lemon = limonene and pine = alpha pinene) which react with the air to form potentially harmful chemicals.
The overall result – cleaning cupboards bursting with half-used plastic bottles, along with itchy eyes, irritated skin, and dizziness.
What if we told you that only a handful of non-toxic cleaning products are needed to clean your whole place? Knowing this means a simpler cleaning routine, drastically reduced waste and better health.
Using just citric acid crystals or vinegar (their acidity dissolves grime) and bicarbonate of soda (for odours), you can tackle any limescale, stain or odour in your home. Scroll down to our cheat sheet to see how they’re used.
If the DIY approach feels too Martha Stewart for you, try Splosh - ready-made cleaning products without wasting resources on plastic bottles or water.
Go for reusable cleaning tools and cloths, from sustainable materials. Avoid sponges - they are the perfect damp breeding ground for bacteria.
The reality is you don't need an army of cleaning products to clean your surfaces. A surface is a surface whether it is in the kitchen, bathroom or utility room.
General Surfaces |
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Use a natural acidic water-based solution like white vinegar for surfaces and soap for spot cleaning. |
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White Vinegar |
Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water. Add a few drops of essential oils for a nicer smell. |
Bicarbonate of Soda |
Sprinkle onto your surfaces and then spray with your vinegar solution, you’ll get a very satisfying fizz and extra grit for cleaning your surfaces. |
Citric Acid Crystals |
Dissolve citric acid crystals in twice the amount of water for crystals. It has the same effect as vinegar without the smell. |
Soap |
Use some Castille or Marseille soap with a wet cloth for spot cleaning. |
Other Surfaces |
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Marble and Granite |
Use some Castille or Marseille soap on a damp cloth for spot cleaning. Do not use acidic solutions as they will damage marble! |
Hard Floors |
Add 150mL of white vinegar to 4.5 litres of water to keep vinyl floors clean and shining. |
Windows & Mirrors |
Use a solution of 2 tablespoons of vinegar to 1 litre of warm water. Use a microfibre cloth or wet and wring out a piece of paper or newspaper to wipe glass. It works! |
Scrubbing limescale in the bathroom is probably nobody’s idea of a great time. It’s no wonder we reach for nasty abrasive cleaners. This doesn’t make the job any more fun – and adds to our plastic bottle waste. Believe it or not, there’s an easy way to defeat the enemy - all you need is acidic cleaner like lemon juice or vinegar which melts away the limescale. This goes for sinks, showers and even your toilet.
Its amazing to think that most toilet paper is made from freshly-cut trees. And then packaged in non-recyclable plastic film. That's a huge waste of trees, carbon and emissions.
Go tree-free! People who switch to bamboo loo paper are pleasantly surprised with the strength and softness. Why not treat yourself to a little luxury and join the revolution. And while you're at it, ditch the plastic toilet brush and invest in an eco-friendly bamboo version.
Everyone knows that eternal loo problem - no matter how much you spray the Febreze, nothing can cover up that smell. As well as being wasteful, aerosol sprays don't work as they try to control the damage, but don't treat the problem itself. Try buying post-poo drops that come in glass bottle. Or use a few drops of essential oils, which trap the odours underneath. People in new relationships everywhere can breathe a sigh of relief.
]]>There are better (and less toxic) ways to keep your kitchen clean.
For cleaning kitchen surfaces, use vinegar or soda crystals with hot water or an all purpose liquid soap. Wipe down with a reusable cloth. Avoid kitchen sponges - they are the perfect damp breeding ground for bacteria. You might as well lick your benchtop clean – at least you’d save the sponges going to landfill
For washing dishes, use a wooden dish brush with a replaceable head. Leave the pots and pans to soak, and then attack with a copper metal scourer. Castille soap can be used as washing up liquid. Or for reduced-plastic alternatives, consider Splosh or Method.
Consider this: if you came across a spider in your bedroom, would you attack it with an axe? Not likely, unless you’re starring in some new Tarantino movie.
And yet, supermarkets sell us dangerous chemical cleaners for simple stuff like descaling the kettle or degreasing the oven. This is bizarre when simple non-toxic products work just as well.
You can easily descale a kettle by boiling equal parts water and vinegar, or using soda crystals. Even simply, use boil your kettle with a water and lemon juice mixture. Likewise, to clean the oven racks, simply soak them overnight in your bathtub with dissolved soda crystals.
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