Making Earth- and people-friendly laundry soap is simple and inexpensive. For starters, try this easy whitening formula from Natural <http://www.naturalhomemagazine.com/> Home
Bleach/Brightener Substitute 1 cup hydrogen peroxide 1/4 cup lemon or grapefruit juice 12 cups water Store in a labeled plastic jug. Add 2 cups per load. Those who work with their hands, especially gardeners, will appreciate this Super-Healing Hand Balm... 16 cups baking soda 12 cups borax 8 cups grated castile or glycerin soap flakes* 3 tablespoons lavender, lemon, or grapefruit essential oil Combine baking soda, borax, and soap flakes, add essential oil, and mix with a wire whisk. Use 1/8 cup of powder per load. This recipe makes enough powder to last a family of four one year. *Source: Sunfeather Natural Soap Company, (315) 265-3648 , www.sunsoap.com, or you can buy bars of castile soap (e.g. Dr. Bronner's) and grate with a kitchen grater. Pre-Wash Stain Spray 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/4 cup baking soda 2 tablespoons ammonia 3 cups water Stir together and fill a labeled spray bottle. Spray on heavily soiled spots just before washing (as usual, test a hidden spot for colorfastness first). [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
