Using shampoo to do the laundry: an alternative method to try out

How many loads of laundry do you do every week? Certainly it will be several - and this can be expensive in terms of detergents and fabric softeners which are consumed. And occasionally, you can run out of these products. We know that we can replace a fabric softener with vinegar from time to time, for example, but what about soap for washing clothes?

An alternative you can try is hair shampoo, and only a few drops are needed. This is not a method to replace a traditional laundry detergent, but can be used from time to time with due care. Read on for more detailed information:

Creativo

There are lots of types of shampoos on the market - for every type of hair - and with very pleasant perfumes and scents.

So, if we've run out of regular detergent, we can use a little shampoo to wash our clothes. But be careful: you should never use it in a washing machine.

The reason? The bubbles! Any shampoo produces a more lather than a regular laundry detergent. This means even a small amount produces a lot of suds. Rinsing these suds out (with extra rinse cycles) consumes a lot of energy and can even seriously damage washing machine.

And if all the shampoo is not rinsed off properly, it easily leaves stains on fabrics, making your washing pointless.

Shampoo, therefore, should only be used for hand washing. It is fast and easy, however. Just follow these steps:

• Fill a basin (or sink) with cold water. If you are absolutely sure you can use the shampoo on the items to be washed, use hot water.
• Add a teaspoon of shampoo to the water and mix well.
• Submerge the garments.
• Leave to soak for 5 minutes (or to a maximum of 10 if they are very dirty).
• Empty the bowl and rinse thoroughly.
• Wring out gently.
• Dry. You can air dry the laundry or use the dryer, depending on the type of garment.

Some further advice:

• Avoid 2-in-1 shampoos, ie. those that also contain conditioners or oily components.
• Also avoid shampoos that contain hair dye or anti-yellowing products.
• Just 3 drops of shampoo will be enough to wash a few items.
• Make sure you rinse out thoroughly

Have you ever used shampoo to do your laundry?