When we use conventional, name-brand laundry detergents, we are very likely exposing ourselves to absorbing toxins from residue on laundry. Detergents contain dyes, optical brighteners, fabric softeners, stain repellents, artificial perfumes, petroleum-based surfactants, etc. Those residues ‘stick’ on the laundry and our skin absorbs the toxins – like it e.g. does with the ingredients of nicotine patches. People with sensitive skin adversely react to these toxic substances. The skin becomes irritated, sensitive and may develop rashes, even eczema, especially when sweating. Some substances are bio-accumulating in the human body, affecting some people after a longer period of time causing allergies and other health problems. 

Soap nuts are the fruits of the soap nut tree that grows in India and the Himalayan region. The outer shell of the soap nut contains a soapy substance – saponins - that turns into a magnificent natural detergent when immersed in water. It is much more gentle on the skin than chemical detergents, and there are no reported cases of allergic reactions. In ancient India, these fruits were used for soap, hair wash powders and the laundering of fine silks, wools and linens. In traditional Indian ayurvedic medicine, soap nuts belong to the three most beneficial fruits. They are used for the treatment of eczema, psoriasis and severe lung congestions. Ancient Indian therapies utilize soap nut powder extensively, for example to eliminate freckles and cracks in the skin.

In Europe, soap nuts have become a best-selling alternative to conventional detergents among those who live an environmentally-friendly, conscious lifestyle or those who suffer from allergies or MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity). The soap nut shells are put in the washer with the laundry. However, using the shells this way has several disadvantages.

1.    Cleanut washes better in hard water

In hard water, the washing power of the soap nut is weaker because of the calcium and magnesium. These ‘hardness ions’ inhibit the cleansing effect because they bind the soap and form a substance similar to the ‘bathtub ring’. CLEANUT eliminates this problem. It is very effective even in hard water because it contains a natural, mineral water softener which captures the ‘hardness ions’.

2.    Cleanut is tough on stains although gentle on skin

The saponins of the soap nut are anti-microbial and effective on grease soils, but not very effective on some vegetable and protein stains. Cleanut’s soap nut extracts are blended with other natural soaps and surfactants, like coconut soap and surfactants from corn, sugarcane and potatoes. Each ingredient has characteristics which by their nature target specific types of soiling. Cleanut’s carefully selected combination of ingredients enable it to remove all types of stains.

3.    Using Cleanut is far more convenient than raw nuts

Cleanut is used like other liquid detergents -- but in smaller amounts. Unlike raw soap nuts, there is no hassle involved. You do not have to put soap nuts into bags, take them out of the washer and remove the shell crumbs from the laundry. Raw soap nuts are supposed to wash two or three loads. But you never really know how many loads soap nuts will do until dirty laundry comes out of the washer. And you have to keep track of how many loads were already washed.

4.    Cleanut does not leave soap residue

Since raw soap nuts are supposed to wash two or three loads -- they still contain soap after the washing cycle and will release this soap into the laundry during the rinse cycle. This soap can become rancid just as would any other natural fruit “juice”.

5.    Laundry smells better with Cleanut

Cleanut contains expensive organic essential oils of Verbena and Eucalyptus. They will give your laundry a light, pleasant and fresh smell.

Cleanut® is highly concentrated. We recommend using one fluid ounce = one bottle cap. However if you have a high efficiency washer or soft water you may use even less than one ounce. One bottle of Cleanut (25 Fl. Oz) yields 25 – 30 loads.