Washing Soda?

I've not used instead of detergent but in addition to. I never heard of it as a stand alone product. We have very 'hard' water and it is supposed to break down the minerals to allow the detergent to work better. I do think it helps from that perspective. As to quantity...not sure if it's the manufacturer trying to sell more of it's own product but the package directions say 1/2 cup per laundry load. I have a very larger washer (can fit full set of king sheets in one load) so have a tendency to be a bit heavy handed with both the washing soda and detergent. I know that doesn't answer your questions but it's my experience. Hope someone is better able to answer your questions.

Kim in NJ

I buy the stuff 25 or 50 pounds at a go from a swimming pool supply place. They use it in pools as a "water conditioner" and PH adjuster. I use it in dying, it is naught but soda ash (sodium carbonate), and in laundry. It does make a difference in the wash. Like Kim I use about a half cup to a large load.

I have been told by a number of people that laundry detergent is not essential to clean laundry if you are using a machine. I figure that they do not have a 12 year old boy or a mad scientist to wash up after.

Oh, laundry soda is also the absolute kill for cleaning coffee makers. About a tablespoon dissolved in a pot of water does the trick. It works ever so much better than vinegar, and has the added benefit of not making the kitchen smell like steamed pickles.

NightMist

I have a friend who mixes her own detergent with the things Susan talked about, and she brags how much cheaper it is and it cleans great. She has 2 childrem. I buy the Sears brand detergent when it is on sale for 1/2 price and use slightly less than their scoop full for a big washing machine. My DH works at a lawm mower shop (wears uniforms) but he figures he can do our yard work and I can clean anything he is wearing. I figure my cost for the