A new study carried out by a team of researchers at the University of Washington found that almost all of the laundry detergents available today contain chemicals that are potentially harmful to us. Switching to this completely natural solution today will leave your clothes feeling fresher than ever whilst avoiding the side effects of toxic compounds in mass produced detergents.
Most laundry detergents found in our cupboards these days are so packed full of toxic chemicals that they are responsible for many skin conditions and irritations, amongst other ailments such as respiratory conditions and eye irritation. Washing our laundry was never meant to be this chemically involved, and it is completely unnecessary to be using these harmful toxins when the answer can be found in a much simpler form.
Anne Steinemann, one of the leading professors that worked on the study at the University of Washington reported:
‘I was surprised by both the number and the potential toxicity of the chemicals that were found,’ Steinemann said. ‘Nearly 100 volatile organic compounds were emitted from these six products, and none were listed on any product label. Plus, five of the six products emitted one or more carcinogenic hazardous air pollutants, which are considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to have no safe exposure level.’
To combat this, many consumers have been switching to a much easier, cheaper and effective way to wash their laundry. This may sound shocking, but it is basically a mixture of white vinegar, salt and the correct water temperature in you washing machine. The acidity in the vinegar helps to break down even the toughest of stains like red wine, sweat, coffee and grass, while the combination of salt creates the perfect anti-bacterial solution for keeping your clothes stain and germ free.
Here’s How…
- For intense stains such as red wine and coffee, soak the area in a solution of white vinegar and warm water before washing.
- Add 1/2 a cup of white vinegar to your standard wash without any other detergent. A temperature range between 30 – 60 degrees C works best, along with a tablespoon of sea salt.
- Many people choose strong smelling detergents in order to combat bad odours. White vinegar works wonders on even the smelliest of socks and leaves your garments with a naturally fresh aroma.
- White vinegar and salt are an excellent pet-hair-removing combination. Just soak the items of clothing in warm water and 1/2 a cup of vinegar for 15 minutes before washing.
- As well as being an excellent anti-bacterial, stain removing detergent, white vinegar is also perfect for descaling your machine. Every month or after an intense amount of washing, run your machine on empty and add 2 cups of white vinegar to the drawer. Run a medium-hot wash and afterwards your washing machine should have a clean, limescale-free shine that even the best descalers couldn’t deliver.
So there you have it – a simple, natural way to clean your clothes and avoid any interaction with the harmful toxins that are contained in MOST brands of laundry detergent. Making the change happens in a day and we can all start feeling the benefits of this awesome idea in no time.