Salt to wash laundry?

[Ruthla]

Earlier today, I saw a thread in the Diapering forum about using salt in the laundry in place of detergent. I'm intrigued.

Would this work on non-diaper laundry? Would this work in cold water? How much salt is needed, and would this actually be cheaper than using small amounts of detergent?

[EnglishRose]

I know salt is good for removing stains, but I've never used it place of detergent.

[maxwill129]

1/4 c vinager and 1/4 c washing soda for whites
1/4 c vinager and 1/4 c salt for darks

http://www.essortment.com/all/organiccleaning_rase.htm

I haven't tried it yet, but am researching...

[Ruthla]

Originally Posted by maxwill129

1/4 c vinager and 1/4 c washing soda for whites
1/4 c vinager and 1/4 c salt for darks

http://www.essortment.com/all/organiccleaning_rase.htm

I haven't tried it yet, but am researching...

And what do I use in mixed laundry?

[Meiri]

I know salt helps to set dyes, but I don't know what it would do in the water to remove dirt and stains.

[maxwill129]

Originally Posted by Ruthla

And what do I use in mixed laundry?

Good question. I don't separate my laundry into whites and colors either. Hmmm. I guess I would just go with the salt and vinager choice. Also, I think there was something that said you can "bleach" whites with boiling water and salt and vinager.

Honestly, as far as removing dirt and grime, I have NEVER had a laundry detergent do that. I don't know if it's my water or what, but nothing will really CLEAN our clothes. We have tried almost everything under the sun, so I'm anxious to see how this works.