Laundry :)

[boobs4babes]

We just purchased our first washer and dryer set. I am so in love! I love fresh,clean smelling laundry that is dry the first time around. But I am so confused about all these laundry detergeant and fabric softener choices.
I was in the laundry isle for ages smelling all the liquids but they didn't smell too nice straight from the bottle.

I know this is the natural home forum but I have no idea where else I could post this. I figured as I was looking for natural or otherwise suggestions it would be ok to post here.

What all do you guys use. Any great tips for a new washer/dryer owner.

-Amy

[ilfan96]

As far as laundry detergent goes, I would love to use something more natural than the typical detergents I use now. I do not use fabric softener at all. A substitute for fabric softener is white vinegar. It works well, although it won't help with static cling if that is an issure for you.

[rainsmom]

Alot depends on your water too. When I had dipes to wash, I bought BioClean bc it was available locally. After awhile, I noticed it left a residue on the inside of my washer, and I assume on my dipes as well. I had long conversations here with Heather Sanders......and she explained alot to me about hard water.....and natural detergents, and how they dont go together.

Now I use Arm & Hammer Free.....no perfumes or dyes. Im really happy with it. I add baking soda to my whites to naturally whiten them (a trick I learned from having dipes) and I use fabric softeners, esp on towels. I just got a wooden drying rack for those days when I can use the sun.

Another thing I learned from CLEAN HOUSE, CLEAN PLANET, you dont need as much detergent as they tell you. In fact, using MORE detergent than needed, actually makes your clothes dirty! I use 1/2 the rec amount and clothes are just as clean. Same goes for the dishwasher.

I also have a large capacity washer......but always do med size loads as I just dont think think having all those clothes in their all at once is good for the clothes, or gets them as clean. JMHO