It is very easy to make liquid soap from soapnuts. I use it for my dishes, the floor, cleaning the bathroom and washing delicate items. Very handy to have around the house. It also can be used as a shampoo.

• 100g soapnuts
• 3 quarts (litres) water

Method:
Add the soapnuts to the water. Bring the water to a boil. Turn down the heat to a low simmer for at least 30 minutes.

Allow the liquid to cool, then strain out the soapnuts.

Funnel the liquid into an old detergent bottle. This product is all natural so keep it in the fridge when the temperature is warm — it doesn’t have as long a shelf life as commercial products and is completely biodegradable.

This liquid can also be used as a vegetable and fruit wash, all-purpose cleanser (great on floors), laundry detergent, shampoo or to get aphids off a favorite plant.

Soapnuts are anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, efficient cleaners but they don’t suds up to the degree we are accustomed to these days, but have no fear. Your dishes are as clean as can be.

Click here for my sustainable Cradle to Cradle dishwashing instructable.