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From:	N (66.234.51.137)
Subject:	Re: Homemade laundry detergent...?
Date:	April 16, 2008 at 12:51 pm PST

In Reply to: Homemade laundry detergent...? posted by Kristy on December 28, 2007 at 7:18 pm:

I'm sorry to say this but there is simply no homemade, natural
substitute. Detergent works because it has to minimally contain
certain substances, surfactants in particular, which can lift
greasy/fatty dirt off of clothes. While some substances like baking
soda and vinegar do have cleaning and freshening properties, in a
washing machine they simply will not make your clothes fresh and
clean the way a detergent will.

The good news is you can buy concentrated detergents from
relatively eco-friendly companies that do not contain bulky fillers
or harsh scents, bleaches, or phosphates.

As far as alternatives to bleach, strong hydrogen peroxide
solutions can whiten fabric, but it may also be damaging and may
not be as effective Your mileage may vary. However you can get
detergents with oxygen/non-chlorine bleaches that will whiten
with less environmental impact. In the end though it's a matter of
what results you are satisfied with.

• A review of six green laundry detergents