What are Wash Nuts?

Wash nuts are nuts that grow on the soap nut tree (Sapindus). They are also called 'soap nuts' because these magical nuts contain 'saponin'. When you combine the shells of the nuts with water, a soapy foam is created that can be used as a natural detergent. Indian Wash Nuts contain 100% natural saponins (plant-based glycosides). These substances form a soapy solution in water with unmatched washing power.

Of course, the Sapindus, which naturally occurs in North India and Nepal, does not need to wash itself. Instead, the tree uses saponin to protect itself against natural enemies. The Indian population has been aware of the cleansing properties of wash nuts for centuries and has been using the shells for ages to wash cotton, wool and silk clothing. But it is also a fantastic all-purpose cleaner and wonderful shampoo.

What are the benefits of Wash Nuts?

• Cleansing – Wash nuts have a cleansing effect on textiles and surfaces in the home, but also on hair and body. They clean and refresh both your whites and your colored laundry.
• Mild on skin – The saponin from wash nuts is gentle and therefore also suitable for use on skin. A shampoo that does not sting the eyes: ideal.
• Biodegradable – You use the nuts 2 to 3 times in the washing machine. After that, you add them to the compost, because they are completely biodegradable.
• Zero waste – Scatter used nuts between your plants in the garden. This gives the product a second life and you have nothing left over.
• 100% pure and natural – Only the shell of the wash nut, with no additives.

How do you use Wash Nuts?

There are different ways to prepare wash nuts for use. We mention the methods below, but of course we would love to hear if you have any more tips for us!

In the washing machine

Put about 5 wash nuts in a Wash Nuts Bag made of 100% cotton and place it in the wash drum. This bag replaces your normal detergent and fabric softener. Or pour some of the liquid you make with the method below into an eco-friendly cup and place it in the washing machine.

All-purpose cleaner, shampoo or liquid detergent

Place the wash nuts in a blender and add water. Approximately 100 to 150 grams of nuts per 1 liter of water. Mix until you see the water starting to turn brown and you see some foam. Strain into a glass bottle so you have a smooth liquid: your homemade cleaner. Use as shampoo, shower gel, liquid detergent or all-purpose cleaner. It keeps well in the refrigerator for about two weeks, but you can also freeze it.

In the garden

Have you got used wash nuts left over? Scatter them between your plants in the garden. It wards off slugs and other natural enemies.

What is so special about Wash Nuts?

Something to clean? You don't need more than the multifunctional wash nut. The soapy substance released when using wash nuts is cleansing and nourishing. The saponin from wash nuts is mild and therefore also suitable for skin. A wonderful product for your zero waste lifestyle, because after use you scatter the nuts in your garden to protect your plants against unwanted enemies. The circle is complete again!