Let's be real - not everything belongs in the washing machine. Whether it's your favourite silk blouse, a delicate lace bralette, or a wool sweater you're terrified to shrink, some items simply require a gentler touch. That's where hand washing comes in - and with Nellie's Laundry Soda, it's easier (and more effective) than you think.
Made with just four planet friendly ingredients, Nellie's Laundry Soda is highly concentrated, hypoallergenic, and free from synthetic fragrances, and harsh chemicals - making it the perfect partner for hand washing even your most sensitive pieces.
Why Hand Wash with Nellie's
- Gentle on fabrics
- Tough on stains and odours
- Planet friendly
- Rinses clean without residue
Now let's get into the how-to, with techniques tailored to different fabrics and garments.
How to Hand Wash: The Basics
- Fill a clean basin or sink with lukewarm water (or cool water for delicates).
- Add 1 tablespoon of Laundry Soda and swirl to dissolve completely.
- Submerge your garment and gently agitate it with your hands.
- Soak for 10-15 minutes, then lightly rub stained areas if needed.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all detergent is gone.
- Gently squeeze out excess water (never wring!) and lay flat or hang to dry.
For Delicates (Lingerie, Silk, Lace)
- Water Temperature: Cool
- Soak Time: 5-10 minutes
- Pro Tip: Place items in a mesh laundry bag even for hand washing to keep lace and silk from snagging.
For Cotton Tees & Everyday Basics
- Water Temperature: Warm or lukewarm
- Soak Time: 10-15 minutes
- Pro Tip: Agitate gently with your hands and spot-treat any deodorant stains with the Nellie's WOW Stick stain remover.
For Wool, Cashmere & Sweaters
- Water Temperature: Cold
- Soak Time: 10 minutes
- Pro Tip: Add a splash of white vinegar to the rinse water to help soften fibers naturally. Always dry flat to maintain shape.
For Activewear or Cloth Diapers
- Water Temperature: Warm
- Soak Time: 20 minutes
- Pro Tip: Give a little extra attention to the waistband and underarm areas. You can even add a scoop of Oxygen Brightener for a deeper clean.
Bonus Tips for Better Hand Washing
- Always test for colorfastness on new items by dipping a small hidden area in water.
- Hand wash in batches to save time and water - just be sure not to overload the basin.
- Use Nellie's Lamby Wool Dryerballs to fluff garments in the dryer after air-drying for a few minutes (only for dryer-safe items!).
Make It a Routine, Not a Chore
With Laundry Soda, hand washing doesn't have to feel like a daunting task. It's a small act of care that can extend the life of your clothing, protect delicate fabrics, and reduce your environmental impact - all with one scoop of planet friendly power.