Soap nut liquid is the best way to wash clothes using cold water (which is more environmentally friendly than warm or hot water). The saponin in soap nuts is released in warmer water.

It can also be used in place of most household chemical cleaners - window cleaner, bathroom cleaner, kitchen cleaner, floor cleaner, dishwashing detergent and dishwasher powder. Experiment and see what works best for you.

To make liquid from soap nuts:

* Place 8 soap nuts in their cotton bag and place in saucepan with 1 litre of water.

* Bring to boil and then simmer for 15 minutes.

* Let cool - the longer it sits, the stronger the solution

* Poor into a plastic container with a lid or a spray bottle depending on what you will be using the solution for.

* Add your favourite essential oil.

* If using for laundry, use 1/4 to 1/2 cup per load depending on the size of your machine and how soiled the load is.

Add the used soap nuts to your compost heap. It is easier to get the powder out if you let it dry in the bag first :)