I did the math… If you typically shower 15 minutes a day, you likely spend about 99% of your life touching fabric in some way. Yes, even if you sleep in the buff, you have sheets and blankets and a pillow.
That actually makes clothing a major source of toxic exposure… depending on how they are cleaned.
There are more than 40,000 chemicals on the market in the United States. Only a whopping 6 are actually banned. SIX! The EPA spends the vast majority of their energy looking at new chemicals hitting the market, but has grandfathered in the thousands of other ones. And… they only get 90 days to determine if a chemical is toxic, and to give a “safe” level of use. But do they check that new chemical in combination with any of the other 40,000+ chemicals in use already? Some regions of the world ban more - like the European Union. Their ban (for cosmetics) includes 1,328. But that’s specific to cosmetics, and again, what about the rest of them?
Of these 40,000 chemicals, there are any number of effects possible to the human body. They can disrupt function of virtually every system, and can result in anything from skin rashes, to asthma, to hormone problems, reproductive issues, brain and nervous system disorders, physical pain, digestive distress, allergic reactions, and so much more.
But Jill, I’m using a Free & Clear detergent, so I’m already good. Are you? Have you really read the label for yourself? Let's also consider the price per load, environmental waste, paying for water, and how well it works to clean your clothes.
Our recipe - just 6 cents per load. I’ve compared to some of the other options, and in addition to doing a better job in the other categories, the price per load is a savings of nearly 50% or more per load.
1 Quart Mason jar filled almost full with warm water
2 TBSP Baking Soda
2 TBSP Washing Soda
1/2 Capful Thieves Laundry Soap
2 Capfuls Thieves Household Cleaner
3-5 Drops Gentle Baby, Lavender Essential Oil, or another YL oil you love
Mix in washing soda thoroughly with warm water. Then mix in remaining ingredients. Use about 1/8-1/4 cup per load.
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