The CleanSuds Blog
Where education and truthful facts are easy to come by.
MamaSuds’ Ultimate Eco-Friendly Holiday Gift Guide
The holiday season is here, and what better way to show your loved ones you care than by giving them gifts that keep their homes and families clean and green? Whether they're new to natural products or eco-enthusiasts, these handpicked MamaSuds' gifts are perfect for anyone on your list who values quality, sustainability, and a healthier home. Here's our go-to gift guide to help you spread the joy of clean living this season!
1. The Dishwashing Trio
What’s Inside: Solid Dish Soap, Bamboo Pot Brush, and Ridged Wooden Soap Dish
Perfect for the eco-conscious kitchen lover, this Dishwashing Trio combines natural true cleaning power with beautiful, sustainable design. Our solid dish soap tackles grease without harsh chemicals, the bamboo pot brush is a powerhouse scrubber, and the ridged wooden soap dish keeps the solid soap dry for longer-lasting use. This trio brings joy to daily dishwashing with sustainable essentials that elevate any kitchen. And for a limited time, it comes with a natural burlap gift bag perfect for giving.
Perfect for: Hosts, foodies, and anyone who loves a stylish kitchen with zero waste.
2. Dryer Balls
MamaSuds’ Upcycled Dryer Balls are a staple for those who want soft, fresh laundry without synthetic dryer sheets. These handmade wonders reduce drying time, save energy, and are reusable for years—making laundry day a breeze and helping reduce waste. For a limited time, when you buy 4 balls, you automatically get a natural burlap gift bag, making giving even easier!
Perfect for: Anyone looking to green their laundry routine and save on energy costs.
3. Combos We Love
Dryer Balls + Laundry Soap Concentrate
Make this duo your go-to gift for anyone who’s serious about eco-friendly laundry. Pairing our Upcycled Dryer Balls with the Laundry Soap Concentrate, this set delivers a powerful clean without the toxins. MamaSuds’ Laundry Soap Concentrate uses simple, non-toxic ingredients that are gentle on skin and effective on clothes. A 16oz pouch makes a half gallon of our customer's favorite laundry soap. Combined with dryer balls, laundry becomes efficient, effective, and kind to the planet.
Perfect for: Families, busy parents, and friends looking to clean up their laundry routines.
No. 12 Bar Soap + Ridged Wooden Soap Dish
Give the gift of self-care with our No. 12 Unscented Bar Soap, crafted to be gentle on skin, free from harmful chemicals, and a soothing experience to use. Paired with our sustainable ridged wooden soap dish, this combo helps the soap last longer while looking beautiful in any bathroom or kitchen.
Perfect for: Spa lovers, skincare enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a natural, sustainable twist on daily self-care.
All-Purpose Cleaner + Concentrate
Know someone who takes pride in a sparkling clean home? This pairing has you covered! Our All-Purpose Cleaner is ready to tackle messes naturally, while the All-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate makes it easy to refill and reuse (8 x 16oz refills in one bottle!). Perfect for those who want an effective clean without the chemicals, this pair is sure to become a staple in their cleaning routine.
Perfect for: The clean freaks, the new parents, and those who like a fresh, toxin-free home.
Oxygen Powder + Bamboo Pot Brush
For the deep-cleaning aficionados, our Oxygen Powder and Bamboo Pot Brush duo is a powerhouse for tackling tough stains, grime, and anything in between. This natural combo is versatile enough to handle everything from kitchen stains to bathroom tub, making it a unique, practical gift that shows you truly care about the details.
Perfect for: Cleaners, DIYers, and anyone who loves a spotless home.
Wrap It Up Sustainably
Complete these gifts with an eco-friendly touch by wrapping them in recyclable paper, reusable cloth bags, a reusable shopping tote, or grab a natural burlap tote available on our website for a limited time. Every small step counts in creating a more sustainable holiday season!
Give the gift of clean this holiday season with MamaSuds. Whether you're introducing someone to greener products or helping them level up their eco-game, these gifts are thoughtful, practical, and planet-friendly. Happy gifting from MamaSuds!
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Clean Laundry Soap for Sparkling Fresh Clothes
Are you tired of laundry soap that leaves residue on your clothes and fails to deliver that sparkling freshness you love? Look no further! In this ultimate guide, we will help you find the best clean laundry soap that will leave your clothes looking and smelling clean.
At MamaSuds, we understand the importance of having clothes that not only look clean but also feel clean. Our mission is to provide you with a laundry soap that tackles even the toughest stains, while still being gentle on your fabrics.
With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right laundry soap for your needs. That's why we have done the research for you. In this guide, we will break down the key factors to consider when selecting a laundry soap, such as ingredients, fragrance options, and eco-friendliness.
So, whether you're looking for a laundry soap that is free of harsh chemicals, has a delightful fragrance, or is environmentally conscious, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to dingy clothes and hello to a fresh, clean wardrobe with our ultimate guide to finding the best clean laundry soap.
The importance of using clean laundry soap
Using clean laundry soap is crucial for maintaining the longevity and quality of your clothes and washing machine. Conventional laundry soaps often contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can damage fabrics, cause skin irritation, and leave behind residue that dulls the appearance of your clothes and decreases the life of your machine.
When you invest in high-quality, clean laundry soap, you're not only protecting your clothes but also your health and the environment. Clean laundry soaps are formulated with gentle, natural ingredients that are effective at removing dirt, grease, and stains without compromising the integrity of your fabrics. They also often come with eco-friendly and biodegradable properties, making them a more sustainable choice.
By using clean laundry soap, you can enjoy the benefits of brighter, clean-smelling clothes that last longer. This not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces your environmental impact by minimizing the need for frequent clothing replacements. Investing in a clean laundry soap is an easy way to make a positive difference in your daily life and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.
Understanding the ingredients in laundry soap
When it comes to choosing the best clean laundry soap, it's important to understand the ingredients that go into the formulation. Laundry soaps can contain a wide range of chemicals, some of which can be harmful to both your clothes and your health.
The primary active ingredients in laundry soap are surfactants, which are responsible for lifting and removing dirt, grease, and stains from your clothes. Common surfactants used in conventional laundry soaps include sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), which can be harsh and drying on fabrics and skin.
At MamaSuds we use REAL soap as our surfactant. It's imperative that when using real soap as a laundry product it doesn't leave a residue. That's why we make our Castile Soap in house to ensure that no extra fat is used in our formulation.
In addition to surfactants, laundry soaps may also contain optical brighteners, fragrances, and other additives. Optical brighteners, for example, are chemicals that make your clothes appear whiter by reflecting light, but they can also be harsh on fabrics and may cause skin irritation. Synthetic fragrances, on the other hand, can contain a cocktail of chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions and contribute to indoor air pollution.
Common harmful ingredients to avoid in laundry soap
When selecting a clean laundry soap, it's important to be mindful of the ingredients and avoid those that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Some of the common harmful ingredients to steer clear of include:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): These surfactants are known for their harsh, drying effects on skin and can also be damaging to fabrics over time.
- Optical Brighteners: These synthetic chemicals are used to make clothes appear whiter, but they can be irritating and may contribute to environmental pollution.
- Synthetic Fragrances: Fragrances can contain a complex mixture of chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions and contribute to indoor air pollution.
- Phosphates: These chemicals can be harmful to aquatic ecosystems and contribute to the eutrophication of waterways.
- PVA (polyvinyl alcohol): Popular in pods and sheets and they dissolve into microplastics which are released into our water system, eventually finding its way into our bodies and aquatic life.
By avoiding these harmful ingredients and opting for clean, natural alternatives, you can protect your clothes, your skin, and the environment while still enjoying the benefits of a sparkling clean wardrobe.
Factors to consider when choosing the best clean laundry soap
When it comes to selecting the best clean laundry soap for your needs, there are several key factors to consider. By taking the time to evaluate these factors, you can ensure that you find a laundry soap that not only cleans your clothes effectively but also aligns with your personal values and environmental concerns.
- Ingredients: As mentioned earlier, it's crucial to carefully examine the ingredient list and avoid harsh chemicals like SLS, SLES, and synthetic fragrances. Look for clean, natural ingredients that are gentle on fabrics and skin, such as plant-based surfactants, essential oils, and biodegradable components.
- Fragrance: If you prefer a fresh, clean scent, consider laundry soaps that use natural essential oils. Avoid products with synthetic fragrances, which can be irritating and contribute to indoor air pollution.
- Eco-Friendliness: Look for laundry soaps that are eco-friendly and sustainable, with certifications such as Leaping Bunny. These products are typically made with renewable, biodegradable ingredients and have a lower environmental impact.
- Effectiveness: Ensure that the clean laundry soap you choose is effective at removing tough stains, grease, and dirt without compromising the quality of your fabrics. Read reviews and consider trying out a few different options to find the one that works best for your needs.
- Skin Sensitivity: If you or any members of your household have sensitive skin, look for laundry soaps that are hypoallergenic and gentle, free of potential irritants like perfumes and dyes.
- Compatibility with Washing Machines: Some clean laundry soaps may be better suited for high-efficiency (HE) washing machines, so be sure to check the product specifications to ensure compatibility.
By considering these factors, you can find the best clean laundry soap that not only delivers sparkling clean clothes but also aligns with your personal and environmental values.
How to properly use clean laundry soap for optimal results
Using clean laundry soap effectively can help ensure that your clothes come out sparkling clean and fresh every time. Here are some tips for properly using clean laundry soap:
- Follow the Dosage Instructions: Clean laundry soaps are often more concentrated than conventional detergents, so it's important to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging. Using too much can lead to excessive suds and residue, while using too little may not effectively clean your clothes.
- Adjust for Load Size and Soil Level: The amount of laundry soap you use should be adjusted based on the size of your load and the level of soil or stains on your clothes. Larger loads or heavily soiled items may require a slightly higher amount of soap.
- Use Warm or Hot Water: Clean laundry soaps work best when used with warm or hot water, as this helps to activate the cleaning agents and lift dirt and stains more effectively.
- Pre-treat Stains: For tough stains, it's a good idea to pre-treat the affected areas with a small amount of clean laundry soap or a dedicated stain remover before washing. This can help to break down the stain and make it easier to remove.
- Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine: Overloading your washing machine can prevent the clean laundry soap from circulating properly and may lead to incomplete cleaning. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for load size.
- Use the Appropriate Cycle: Different types of fabrics and soil levels may require different wash cycles. Consult your washing machine's manual and the care instructions on your clothing to determine the best cycle for your clean laundry soap.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your clean laundry soap is used effectively, resulting in sparkling clean clothes that last longer and feel fresher.
DIY recipes for making your own clean laundry soap
For those who are interested in taking a more hands-on approach to their laundry routine, making your own clean laundry soap can be a rewarding and cost-effective option. Here are a couple simple DIY recipes to try.
When making your own clean laundry soap, be sure to use high-quality, natural ingredients and store the finished product in an airtight container to maintain its effectiveness. Additionally, always test a small batch first to ensure that the recipe works well with your washing machine and clothing.
Conclusion: Finding the best clean laundry soap for your needs
In conclusion, finding the best clean laundry soap for your needs is a crucial step in maintaining a fresh, clean wardrobe and reducing your environmental impact. By understanding the importance of using clean laundry soap, familiarizing yourself with the key ingredients to avoid, and exploring the different types of clean laundry soap options available, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your personal and environmental values.
When selecting the best clean laundry soap, consider factors such as ingredient transparency, fragrance preferences, eco-friendliness, and effectiveness in removing tough stains and odors. Refer to the reviews and recommendations provided in this guide to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect clean laundry soap for your household.
Remember, the benefits of using a clean laundry soap go beyond just sparkling clean clothes. By investing in high-quality, natural products, you're also contributing to a healthier, more sustainable future. So, take the time to explore the clean laundry soap options available and find the one that works best for you and your family.
Advantages of MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner
Have you ever wondered what makes a cleaner all-purpose? Generally speaking, these products are soft on surfaces and hard on germs. The idea is to offer one product instead of many for cleaning made simple. After all, we know you’ve got a million things to do without stressing a mess.
Next up is what sets us apart from the pack. At MamaSuds, we’re all about transparency! That’s why our list of natural ingredients is anything but secret. Our organic all-purpose cleaner is a completely safe solution that smells like a dream. Keep your kids safe and your counters sparkling with our impressive cleaner.
Our Ingredients
As any mom can tell you, effective cleaning is all about the ingredients. We want the best for our families and know you do, too. That’s why we source pure oils and natural solvents for a family-friendly product. Here’s what you can expect to find in our all-purpose cleaner:
- Water
- MamaSuds original formula castile soap (potassium olivate)*
- Aloe vera gel, including non-GMO citric acid*
- Pure clove bud essential oil
- Pure organic cinnamon leaf essential oil
- Pure lemon essential oil
- Pure eucalyptus radiata essential oil
- Pure rosemary essential oil
*Aloe vera gel juice contains citric acid that may be derived from corn. Do not use if you are allergic to corn.
As you can see, there’s not a lot to it. Who knew perfection could be so simple? Really, we’ve found that using the best ingredients in balanced ratios is the secret to our success. Each ingredient offers its own unique benefits, like in the following essential oils.
Clove
Did you know that clove has anti-inflammatory properties? Besides its amazing scent, the clove plant is commonly used in cosmetics to fight inflammation. For example, one scientific study published in 2021 cited its ability to reduce inflammation by up to 20 percent over 3 hours. While cleaning products aren’t designed specifically for topical use, our all-purpose cleaner boasts several skin-friendly ingredients.
Lemon
Nothing is as clean as a sun-ripened lemon. Besides its fresh scent, lemon essential oil offers secondary skin benefits. For example, did you know the plant’s detoxifying properties are good for oily skin? How about its ability to boost the immune system? That’s right: lemons are as useful to the skin as they are fragrant in the home. Good thing we included lemon essential oil in our all-purpose cleaner for yet another benefit.
Rosemary
Rosemary is another ingredient known for its revitalizing scent. Just like lemon, you’re likely to find it in kitchen cabinets and cosmetics alike. We thought we’d take things to the next level by adding rosemary essential oil to our all-purpose cleaner for its invigorating fragrance. In fact, this multifaceted ingredient is often considered a tonic to refresh and restore the skin.
Cleaning Instructions
Have you ever wondered what all-purpose cleaner is good for? In short, it’s formulated to use on many household surfaces. Every brand and product is different, so your best bet is to read labels carefully. However, most all-purpose cleaners, including ours, are designed to handle routine cleaning on a variety of surfaces.
Stoves
While ovens often require specific cleaners and harsh chemicals, you’re free to use all-purpose cleaners on stovetops themselves. These surfaces are easier to clean based on better access and visibility. To clean, simply spray the surface and wipe it down using a microfiber cloth. Buff dry with a towel for a smooth, shiny finish.
Countertops
If your kitchen has tile or laminate countertops, it’s okay to use an all-purpose cleaner. (Ours is definitely safe, thanks to its natural ingredients!) Spray your surface and wipe it off using a soft, dry cloth. For excess grease or residue, spot clean using stronger or more concentrated cleaning products.
Showers
Has your shower seen better days? Stay up-to-date on weekly cleanings using an all-purpose cleaner. Spray all shower surfaces, including the corners and door, for complete coverage. Rinse off and squeegee as needed. Pro tip: use an all-purpose cleaner for regular cleaning and minimal residue.
Floors
Did you know you can use all-purpose cleaner to mop floors? Thanks to its castile soap base, this cleaner can be easily diluted for use on wood, tile, or linoleum floors. Start by running warm water and adding ½ cup of all-purpose cleaner. Mop your floors in the cleaning solution and let dry. Pro tip: add plenty of water. Floors aren’t rinsed after mopping, so try to avoid unnecessary residue.
Final Thoughts
All-purpose cleaner is true to its name with a million different uses. Use it in your kitchen, bathroom, or living room floor for completely natural cleaning. Now that you know what it does, what it contains, and how to use it, it’s time to try it on for size.
Are you curious about what we have to offer? If so, check out our online store for everything you need to know on current product availability. We’re thrilled to help other mamas like you get their houses clean while kicking chemicals to the curb. Thanks so much for stopping by, and we hope to see you again soon.Green Clean Your Home With These Natural Products
• Hydrogen peroxide, MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate, Castile soap and white vinegar can be used for non-toxic carpet and floor cleaning.
• Homemade all-purpose cleaners can be used to clean the bathroom non-toxically.
• Baking soda and vinegar solution is an effective way to remove hard water stains from the toilet and other surfaces.
• Castile soap with essential oils make a pleasant aromatic cleaner for bathrooms and other areas around the house.
Cleaning with Hydrogen Peroxide
• It is composed of water and oxygen which makes it safe to use in the home.
• MamaSuds produces Extra Strength Oxygen Powder for cleaning with hydrogen peroxide.
• Hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean wounds, grout, toilets, carpets, and more.
• Additionally, it can be used as a mopping solution and laundry soaking aid.
• Check out MamaSuds range of natural household cleaning products for more information on eco-friendly cleaning.
Clean Your Couch With All Natural Ingredients
• Rubbing alcohol can clean microfiber couches, while a vinegar solution is best for leather.
• For velvet couches, vacuum before brushing, and use a baking soda solution with lemon juice to deep clean and eliminate odor.
• Natural products from MamaSuds will keep furniture looking fresh and healthy without the use of chemicals.
3 Allergens You Might Find in Your Bedroom and How to Get Rid of Them
Most people have common allergens in the bedroom, but the way they affect each person can vary greatly. Some of the most common allergens, like dust, mold, and pet dander, can be found in many bedrooms. They can negatively affect the way you sleep and cause you to wake up with a sore throat, stuffy nose, or cough. By reducing these common allergens in your bedroom, you can get a better night's rest and wake up feeling refreshed.
Dust
Dust is one of the most common household allergens, but, fortunately, it is easy to deal with through regular and thorough cleaning. Dust can collect in your curtains, carpet, rugs, and bedding to wreak bedtime havoc on anyone with allergies. To further stop the problem, you need to minimize the dust allergens from your bed. Use hypoallergenic covers for your mattress and pillows. Vacuum your mattress weekly and wash your bedding in hot soapy water once per week to remove dust buildup.
Pet Dander
If you have pets, then you likely have pet dander. Even mild dander allergies can cause sleep issues, especially if your pet sleeps in or on your bed. Washing your bedding regularly does help, but there are other steps to take. Some people prefer to remove carpets from the bedroom to reduce allergens. If that's not possible or desirable, you should be sure to vacuum your bedroom carpet or area rugs at least every other day. Encourage pets to sleep on a washable pet bed so that you can launder it weekly. Bathing your pets weekly can also help reduce dander.
Mold
Mold grows in moist conditions and is more common in areas where humidity is high year-round. Using a dehumidifier can be helpful for preventing mold growth in your home and, specifically, your bedroom. It's also important to change your air filters regularly to improve the air quality. Avoid opening your bedroom windows during wet weather to keep dampness out. If you have an en suite bathroom, make sure to keep it well-ventilated after you take a bath or shower.
You may not always be aware of allergens in your bedroom. But, they may be causing sleep-related issues that can prevent you from falling asleep and waking up feeling rested. Dust, mold, and pet dander are some of the most common bedroom allergens, but they are actually quite easy to deal with if you follow these tips to get rid of them.
If your home is dusty and full of other allergens, it might be time to clean it. Give it a good scrub with some of our nontoxic household cleaning products!
How to Clean Your Dryer
This is slightly more of a Public Service Announcement than an article, but I have got to tell you to CLEAN OUT YOUR DRYER RIGHT NOW.
A few months back, my dryer (which is not old, yet it's not old) stopped working. It would tumble the clothes for hours and the laundry was still always damp. I didn't pay much attention to it because like always, I was doing a dozen other things at the same time. I finally said something to my husband about it and thought out loud that I should probably start looking at new dryers. He suggested we clean off the inside and maybe the sensors were dirty or something.
So I took my bottle of MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner and sprayed the inside of the drum and the inside of the door and wiped it all down. I did this twice for good measure. I then took a different rag and sprayed it with isopropyl alcohol and wiped everything down again. I then took the vacuum and sucked the lint out of the trap that gets caught on the edges. I noticed that there was still quite a bit of lint way down in that space where the lint trap goes. (Sorry ladies + gents but I don't know the technical terms for these parts!).
I asked the tiniest person in my house to try and reach down and grab the lint and she took one look at the lint and fled the scene. Great. Now what?! I located an old wire hanger and got a giant wad of lint out. I couldn't believe it!
I Facetimed my mom to show her what the heck came out of my dryer and she suggested going behind the dryer and sticking the vacuum hose into the vent. OH. MY. GOODNESS. So gross. So much lint.
And now my dryer works just fine. Luckily, the dryer's safety features were working and since the dryer wasn't getting any air into it, it wasn't letting the heating mechanism on. Whew!
I put on my calendar every 3 months to clean the dryer out, you should do the same!
Everyday Household Items That You Can Use to Clean
• Vinegar is an affordable and efficient cleaning product that can kill bacteria and germs and leave behind a clean shine.
• Baking soda can be used to scrub dirty surfaces and neutralize odors.
• Essential oils are effective replacements to harmful chemical cleaners while making housework more pleasant.
• Professional help may be necessary for certain tasks like carpet cleaning, upholstering, or deep spring cleaning.