soda crystals...magic?

[filthiestfis]

Do soda crystals really whiten clothes?
I put half a cup in with my white washing today but I havent really noticed much difference.
Should I put the crystals inside with the clothes or in the compartment mixed with the powder?
Is it suitable for coloured clothes as well?

[VillageVicar]

The soda crystal actually helps to soften your water. If you live in a hard-water area, it can assist with causing your detergent to permeate the fabrics more effectively. However, in Britain, most detergents are formulated for this in advance. If you're trying to get a brighter white, you might consider using a scoop of Borax in your wash. Borax is a natural earthen compound that you can buy at places such as Boots. It has been used for decades in washes. Also, a tablespoon of bicarbinate of soda will also help with whites. But I wouldn't mix the two.

If you've not been pleased with the outcome of your washes, it may have to do with your detergent. Those that have combined softners and wash can eventually build up, preventing your wash from reaching its peak.

I wish you every success

Fr Bill

[filthiestfis]

I do use powder and conditioner separately.
I saw soda crystals as a cheap alternative as Biotex costs around �1.99 for 500 grams.

[VillageVicar]

Good evening filth: I 'think' Biotex is something different. I believe Biotex is a compound of sorts. Borax is a natural earthen mineral.

Do you live in a known hard-water area? If so, try adding the soda crystals and see how it goes. If you aren't pleased with the results, please consider the Borax. You may be pleased.

I wish you well

Fr Bill

[filthiestfis]

How much does Borax cost and why do Boots sell it?

[VillageVicar]

As I recall, it's around �2 for a large box. I only mention Boots as it's where I buy it. I'm sure it's available elsewhere. Boots sell a number of specialty laundry products. I think the reason Boots sell Borax in particular is that it's excellent at cleaning and disenfecting cloth nappies. Boots also sell water softners, presumably for the same reason.

I've found a link for Borax that you may find helpful.

http://homeparents.about.com/cs/householdtips/ a/borax.htm

I wish you well

Fr Bill

[heathfield]

Soda crystals are basically a de-greaser, rather than a whitener, and also act as a water softener as Fr Bill says.
Biotex was simply one of the first biological washing powders.
For brighter whites, try one of the 'Glo-white' products with your wash, available at most supermarkets.

[beryllium]

I use soda crystals, directly into the drum of the machine with Soap Nuts. Natural and no need for conditioner or powder or liquid. No nasty chemical smells.... just clean!!!

http://www.inasoapnutshell.com/

B. :)

[VillageVicar]

Thank you for that Byryl!!! I was delighted to see this. It�s interesting that the Romanian word for soap is �Sapon.� The Saponin origins I believe were first used in the migratory movements of Asians who came into Mesopotamia, bringing the shells with them.

I�ve seen them used when in the northern regions of India, whilst staying in several villages.

Excellent! I think I will order some myself!

Be well

Fr Bill

[beryllium]

Hello Fr Bill :D

I really do think they're brilliant. Bathroom towels stay soft too :) and the soap nuts can be used again and again.
Even mother uses them now hehe.

B. :)

[beryllium]

Hello Fr Bill :D

I really do think they're brilliant. Bathroom towels stay soft too :) and the soap nuts can be used again and again.
Even mother uses them now hehe.

You really have done some travel in your time :) and I can almost see the Indian women washing the linens in the waters with the sapon.

Thank You For Being You.

B. :)

[VillageVicar]

Good afternoon Beryl! Thank you for your kind words! I got a real rollicking yesterday from a fellow AB'r for my rambling on and my inane comments... I'm looking forward to receiving my supply. I ordered the 500g bag. I'll try it on its own first, then I might 'sneak' some of my borax in...(old habits) :-)

Thank you again for that!

be well

Fr Bill

[HJT40]

Looks like their sale quota may go up, I too have ordered some!!