Laundry day: an essential yet sometimes mundane chore that keeps our clothes fresh and clean. While most of us are familiar with the trusty washing machine and dryer duo, there’s a lesser-known hero in the laundry realm that deserves some spotlight—the humble dryer ball. These unassuming alternatives to dryer sheets are making waves for all the right reasons.

The Power of Dryer Balls

1. Speedier Drying Times: When tossed into the dryer with your laundry, these balls work their way between clothes, creating space for better airflow. This, in turn, reduces drying time by aiding in the circulation of hot air.

2. Natural Fabric Softening: Dryer balls help soften fabrics naturally by gently massaging them as they tumble around. This process can also help reduce wrinkles, making ironing less of a hassle.

3. Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective: Unlike single-use dryer sheets, dryer balls are reusable and can last for a considerable period, making them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice in the long run.

How Long Do Dryer Balls Last?

The lifespan of dryer balls largely depends on their material and usage. Wool dryer balls, for instance, can last for around 1,000 loads or more. 

Regular use, frequency of laundry cycles, and the heat of the dryer can affect their durability. Over time, you might notice some wear and tear, such as pilling in wool dryer balls. Nevertheless, even as they show signs of aging, they usually remain effective until they significantly lose their shape or start falling apart.

When to Replace Dryer Balls

While dryer balls are durable, there comes a time when replacing them is necessary for optimal performance. Here are a few signs indicating it might be time to bid adieu to your current set:

1. Reduced Efficiency: If you notice your clothes taking longer to dry or feeling less soft than usual, it could mean that the dryer balls are losing their effectiveness.

2. Visible Damage: Unraveling or significant deformation are signs that your dryer balls might need replacement. These damages can affect their ability to properly fluff and soften laundry.

3. Excessive Shedding: Over time, wool dryer balls might shed fibers or develop excess pilling. While a certain degree of shedding is normal, an excessive amount can be a signal that it’s time to consider new ones.

Here are some tips to maximize the effectiveness of your dryer balls:

1. Quantity Matters: For optimal results, use three to six balls in your dryer, adjusting the number based on the size of your load. More substantial loads might benefit from a higher count of balls.
2. Leave Them Be: Once your laundry is done, feel free to keep the dryer balls inside. There’s no need to remove them—they’re ready for the next round of laundry.
3. Wrinkle Buster: To freshen up or banish wrinkles from garments, try spritzing the dryer balls with water. As they tumble with the item for a few minutes, the dampness creates a steam effect, smoothing out wrinkles.
4. Scent Sensation: If you fancy adding fragrance to your laundry, a couple of drops of essential oil dabbed onto the dryer balls before tossing them into the dryer can infuse your clothes with a delightful aroma.

Dryer balls may seem like small additions to your laundry routine, but their impact is substantial. From faster drying times to softer clothes and reduced environmental footprint, these unassuming helpers are indeed a laundry game-changer.

Remember, keeping an eye on their condition and replacing them when necessary ensures that you continue to enjoy their benefits. So, if you haven’t already welcomed dryer balls into your laundry routine, perhaps now is the perfect time to give them a tumble!

In a world that is constantly changing and adapting to the newest trends, you may have heard about laundry detergent sheets, and find yourself curious about what they are and how they work and are they really better for the environment. At Clean People, our aim is to provide you with the best quality laundry products that are safe for your home and the planet. 

What are Laundry Sheets? 

Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets harness the cleaning power of the popular liquid laundry detergent, but in a much smaller compacted sheet of soap. It’s also a fraction of the weight to carry around and won’t end up in those nasty landfills like the plastic jugs. Through extensive manufacturing processes, we’ve created a small sheet with only the necessary cleaning ingredients that will dissolve right in the wash. You also do not have to worry about measuring the correct amount of detergent – making it more economical and cost effective for your wallet. 

Do Laundry Sheets Really Work? 

The short answer? Yes! Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets will clean your clothes and remove stains just as well, if not better, than the leading liquid detergent brands (and without those harmful chemicals of course!). Because we have focused our attention on only providing the necessary cleaning ingredients, you may find that your clothes are cleaner since they’ll be free from chemical build-up, dyes, and perfumes. 

How Do I Use Laundry Sheets? 

Switching over to laundry detergent sheets takes all of the guesswork out of laundry day. Instead of fussing over filling a cap with messy liquid and squinting your eyes to try and find the right line, you only need to tear a sheet in half and use one of those halves per load with our laundry sheets. 

Here is a step-by-step process:

1. Remove one full sheet from the box. 
2. Tear that sheet in half to reveal two individual strips. 
3. Use one strip per average-sized (approx. 12 pounds). 
4. Toss the strip directly into the drum before your clothing. 
5. Add clothing and wash as normal

*Pro-tip 1: You can adjust the amount of detergent sheet that you’re using based on the size of the load. For example, do you have a very small load of delicates that need to be washed alone? Simply tear one strip (half of a sheet) in half and you’ll have ¼ of the original sheet. Or maybe you have a bulky load of bedding that takes up most of the drum? Use the entire sheet. We love how personalized your laundry can be when using these sheets! 

*Pro-tip 2: Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets are TSA approved! Instead of lugging around a bulky laundry bag or struggling to find a local laundromat on your next vacation, bring along a few laundry sheets! If you’re on the road and don’t have access to a laundry machine, no problem! Just fill a sink with water and hand wash your soiled clothing using just half a laundry detergent sheet! Our detergent sheets make doing laundry on-the-go a breeze, so you can focus on enjoying your trip. Say goodbye to laundry woes and hello to stress-free travels.

*Pro-tip 3: No matter what type of laundry detergent you use, over time every washer retains odors and build-up that comes with regular use. To combat the grime and odors that accumulate over time, we recommend using our washing machine cleaner tablets.

Not quite ready to switch to detergent sheets or need another alternative? Try our Clean People Laundry Detergent Pods. Filled with a pre-measured amount of toxin-free liquid, our pods can be an easy alternative to toss right into the drum, and are also available as laundry pods for baby clothes. They also come in a variety of yummy scents: Fresh & Clean, Spring, Lavender, and Sweet Petals & Vanilla! Clean People also offers reusable silicone bags, recycled garbage bags, and much more!

It’s that time of the year, again! Summertime is in full swing, and you’re probably spending the majority of your time outdoors enjoying the warmer weather, or perhaps you’re indulging in some fun in the water to try to beat the heat. Regardless, we all look forward to the occasional swim in the pool or tubing at the lake, but do you know how to properly clean your swimsuits afterwards? Heat, saltwater, sweat, and chlorine can do a number on those bright colors and unique fabrics, but we’re here to help you feel confident that you can enjoy your favorite swimsuit for years to come! 

Rinse Immediately After Swimming
Your swimsuit comes into contact with many different germs, bacteria, and chemicals so it’s important to rinse your swimsuit as quickly as you’re able after use. Prolonged exposure to chlorine, salt, or heat will cause the swimsuit to lose its elasticity and begin to stretch. Thankfully, most pools and public beaches provide showers on-site so you can quickly rinse off. 

Wash Your Swimsuit
Washing your swimsuit promptly after using will ensure that fabrics and colors stay looking and feeling their best. When washing, it’s best to use a gentle detergent such as Clean People Laundry Detergent or Clean People Baby Laundry Detergent, and either hand-washing or using a delicate cycle. Be sure to put any delicate straps or removable padding in a mesh laundry bag before laundering.

*Pro tip: Washing machines accumulate subtle odors and build-up as you regularly use them, so it is highly recommended to occasionally use a washing machine cleaner to clear out any unwanted grime and scents.

Air Dry Using A Fan
After laundering your swimsuits, one of the most important ideas to remember is to air-dry them. Do not machine dry your swimwear. These are made using a delicate material similar to spandex to aid in the stretchiness of the swimsuit. Introducing the heat from the dryer would cause these materials to break down, eventually rendering the fabric completely useless. Ideally, you’ll want to air dry these swimsuits using a fan to ensure faster drying time and avoid any unwanted odors. 

•••

Caring for your swimwear is relatively simple, and has tremendous long-term benefits when done properly. In turn, you’ll be able to enjoy that favorite bikini or swim trunks for a long time knowing that you have the tools in your belt to best care for them. No matter what fun activity you choose to participate in this summer, Clean People has an assortment of laundry and household care items such as baby laundry pods, reusable silicone bags, and more to give you the confidence you deserve in your clothing. We hope you can sit back and enjoy your cookouts and vacations at the beach this summer! 

Now that you’ve made the switch to eco-responsible laundry detergent, you may be wondering what to do with those old plastic detergent bottles to keep them out of the landfills. While recycling them is a good option, we’d love to share some fun ways to reuse them instead! 

Hardware Storage
One interesting way to reuse your old detergent bottles is by storing small hardware items such as nails, screws, hinges, etc. Simply remove the lid, fill with the hardware of choice and label it to make it easy to find. Be sure to replace the lid so that water and moisture can’t rust the hardware! 

Watering Can
If you don’t have a watering can on hand or could benefit from an additional water can, your old plastic detergent jug can be of assistance. All you need to do is drill 10-15 small holes in the lid. After that, fill up your new watering can, replace the lid, and give your plants their drink for the day! 

Pet Food Scoop
Because of the sturdy handle of plastic detergent jugs, they make a wonderful food scoop for your furry friend. All you need to do is cut the top of the jug down to the beginning of the handle using a sharp knife and now you have a convenient scoop! 

Paint Storage
Are you tired of having messy wet paint running down the paint cans from the store? Well, if you have an empty plastic detergent jug, simply pour the leftover paint inside and cover with the lid. Now you have an easy, mess-free way to pour paint for all of your fun projects! 

Beach Bucket
With summer quickly approaching, you may be wondering if you need to go to the store and buy buckets for the beach for your kids. However, most of those are still made of plastic and can run a bit pricey. Instead, take a sharp knife and cut the top off of your jug. This will make an easy scoop and bucket to hold all of the sand for your sand castles or shells from your beach adventures! 

How to Switch to Plastic-Free Packaged Detergent
We, at Clean People, have made it easy and affordable to make the switch to better your health and the health of our planet by bringing you eco-responsible laundry options. This helps save our landfills from harmful plastic jugs, and we plant a tree for every 96-load purchased! 

Most families have a tumble dryer in their homes or one that is readily accessible to them. Dryers are an incredibly convenient and efficient method of drying fabrics within minutes; however, it is important to be aware of what items and fabrics should never be tumble-dried.

Before purchasing items that will need to be washed eventually, be sure to take note of the care instructions on the tag and be sure to follow those instructions to avoid wasting money and ruining that item or fabric!

5 Items That Are Safe For The Dryer

1. Denim – It is no surprise that jeans and denim were made to withstand heat and are extremely durable in most conditions. This makes using a tumble dryer completely acceptable for your favorite pair of jeans! 
2. Cotton – While it is possible that your favorite t-shirt may come out of the dryer a size smaller than it went in, it is unlikely when dried on a lower temperature. Other cotton items such as hoodies, towels, and heavier cotton shirts are completely safe to dry on medium to high temperatures. 
3. Bedding – After checking the care label to ensure your specific bedding is safe to dry, toss it right in your dryer so you can get your freshly cleaned sheets back on the bed before bedtime. Drying your bedding is also beneficial in that the heat will help kill any dust mites that may be lingering behind! Check out more on bedding care from our blog here.
4. Polyester Blends – When dried at a low temperature, fabrics made of polyester blends are completely safe to use in your dryer. Polyester tends to dry quite quickly so it’s always best to choose a short drying time to avoid unnecessary heat exposure. 
5. Acrylic – Known for its use as a wool and cashmere alternative, acrylic fabrics can safely be used in the dryer. Be sure to use a low temperature setting since acrylic is known to permanently wrinkle when exposed to high temperatures.

5 Items to Avoid Putting in the Dryer

1. Wool/Cashmere – Although wool and cashmere are some of the most luxurious fabrics especially for their warmth in the winter, these two fabrics do require much care and attention for washing and drying. These items should be air-dried to avoid heat damage and shrinking. 
2. Spandex – Most athletic wear is made using spandex, and should never be put in the dryer. You may not notice any damage right away; however, when dried, spandex completely dries out and becomes brittle. This, in turn, will cause your spandex items to lose their stretch and ultimately become unusable. Thankfully, this fabric is known for its fast-drying capabilities so you shouldn’t have to wait too long to enjoy your favorite pair of leggings again! For more information on caring for your activewear, checkout our blog here.
3. Rubber – You may be tempted to toss your freshly washed sneakers or that clean bathroom rug into your dryer for convenience; however, if it contains rubber, you’ll want to steer clear of putting them in the dryer. When dried, rubber tends to shrink and will become deformed rendering these items essentially unusable. 
4. Silk – Pure silk is an extremely versatile and luxurious fabric that has become quite popular. You may be tempted to throw your silk pillowcase in the dryer with your other bedding, but it is important to refrain from doing so. Because of its delicate nature, silk is easy to burn when it is exposed to heat; therefore, it is best to air dry only! 
5. Dry- Cleaned Items – Items that have previously been dry-cleaned contain certain chemicals that can release toxic gas when exposed to the heat from your dryer. These fumes can cause severe damage to your dryer, so you’ll want to continue dry cleaning those particular items.

Now that you’re familiar with what can and can’t be put into your dryer, we hope you can be confident that you’re properly caring for items you spent hard-earned money on! For an extra softening boost and static-free cycle, try our fabric softening dryer sheets or our wool dryer balls!

Blue laundry detergents are a common sight on store shelves, with their vibrant hue promising clean and fresh clothes. However, have you ever wondered what gives them that distinctive blue color? The answer lies in synthetic dyes and optical brighteners, which serve cosmetic purposes but come with potential drawbacks. Today we will explore the reasons why these ingredients are considered problematic and the concerns associated with their use.

Environmental Impact 

One of the major concerns surrounding synthetic dyes and optical brighteners is their environmental impact. These chemicals can persist in the environment, meaning they do not easily break down and can accumulate in waterways. When blue detergents containing these ingredients are washed out during laundry, the chemicals can find their way into water systems, posing a threat to aquatic life and ecosystems. The accumulation of these substances can disrupt the delicate balance of natural habitats, with potentially far-reaching consequences.

Skin Sensitization and Allergies

Another reason why synthetic dyes and optical brighteners raise concerns is their potential to cause skin sensitization and allergies. Certain individuals may be more susceptible to the chemicals used in these ingredients. Skin irritation, rashes, or even allergic reactions can occur upon contact with clothing washed in blue detergents. For those with sensitive skin or pre-existing allergies, exposure to these substances can be particularly troublesome.

Chemical Exposure

Direct contact with synthetic dyes and optical brighteners during the laundry process can also lead to chemical exposure. When handling clothes or coming into contact with surfaces treated with blue detergents, individuals may inadvertently expose themselves to potentially harmful chemicals. This exposure carries risks, especially for individuals with sensitivities or compromised immune systems. Minimizing such contact becomes crucial to safeguarding one’s health.

Optical brighteners also wear out the fabric of your clothing. And as you wash your clothing over and over, the optical brighteners make your clothing stiff and not soft.

Seeking Alternatives

Considering the potential drawbacks associated with synthetic dyes and optical brighteners, it’s important to explore alternative options. Thankfully, CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergents use hypoallergenic ingredients. You’ll never see synthetic dyes or optical brighteners here! 

We’ve all looked at the back of our laundry detergent bottle or cleaning bottles, and wondered what some of the ingredients are and what they mean. It can be hard to interpret the pronunciations and, therefore, purpose of these ingredients. Because of this, shopping for cleaning products that are safe and efficient can be quite a cumbersome job, but here at Clean People, we aim to be as transparent as possible with our ingredients and ways to avoid the toxic, harmful ones.

9 Toxic Cleaning Ingredients to Avoid

1. Ammonia 

What is Ammonia? 

Ammonia is a naturally occurring colorless gas. It has a notably sharp aroma, and is highly irritating and corrosive. Ammonia is commonly used in agriculture to help promote the build up of nitrogen for use in fertilizers. It is also a common ingredient used in many household and commercial cleaners. 

Potential health risks: 

Ammonia in high concentrations will cause severe burns to skin, eyes, etc. It is also extremely irritating to respiratory systems in animals and humans. In some cases when mixed with other harmful chemicals like bleach, ammonia can create a deadly gas (Phosgene gas, also known as mustard gas)  that can cause serious injury including death.

How to spot on a label: 

Ammonia is typically found in glass cleaners due to its ability to leave a streak-free finish. Lookout for the term “ammonia” and its chemical name:  Hydrogen nitride.

2. Artificial Dyes 

What are Artificial Dyes? 

Artificial dyes are commonly used in cleaning and food products, and unfortunately, may come with a slew of potentially harmful effects. Brands inject their products with dyes to make them more appealing to the human eye. For instance, lavender laundry detergent may be dyed bright purple, or ocean breeze floor cleaner may be dyed bright blue. These artificial dyes are by-products of coal tar, and typically contain heavy metals that pollute the air and enter the body through airways and skin absorption. 

Potential health risks: 

All forms of artificial dyes are known to be human carcinogens, meaning they can potentially cause cancer. Specifically, red and yellow dyes are known to cause behavioral conditions in children such as ADHD and hyperactivity. Certain dyes are also known to be endocrine and reproductive disruptors in both men and women. 

How to spot on a label: 

Most dyes are labeled with the color name and a number, such as yellow-5 or red-40, but some others, like Carmoisine and Tartrazine, may be more difficult to identify. Look out for terms that start with “FD&C,” and are typically near the end of the list.

3. Bleach

What is Bleach? 

You may have heard of this cleaning product as chlorine bleach or sodium hypochlorite. Chlorine’s main use is to kill bacteria and whiten items. It is a powerful disinfectant due to its ability to oxidize when exposed to air; however, the detrimental effects far outweigh the benefits of this cleaning agent. Bleach is extremely harmful to mucous membranes and is highly reactive with other substances. It is toxic to marine-life and overuse of this substance can cause pollution and an ecological imbalance. 

Potential health risks: 

Damage to airways and risk of cancer over prolonged usage are a few of the ways bleach is harmful to humans. As mentioned above, it can create a toxic, deadly gas when mixed with acidic household cleaners like ammonia. 

How to spot on a label: 

Common names for bleach include chlorine or sodium hypochlorite. 

4. Formaldehyde

What is Formaldehyde? 

Formaldehyde is typically used in household and personal care products as a preservative. Many laundry detergent brands put formaldehyde in their products to extend shelf-life for as long as possible. Formaldehyde is known as a VOC (Volatile Organic Compound). According to the American Lung Association, Breathing VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, can cause difficulty breathing and nausea, and can damage the central nervous system and other organs. Some VOCs can cause cancer. In the 1970’s, many people were coming down with severe respiratory illnesses due to the popular demand of formaldehyde-based insulations in American homes. It’s safe to say that formaldehyde should not have a place in our cleaning products. 

Potential health risks: 

Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and is labeled as a sensitive chemical by the CDC. Other possible effects include, respiratory illness, headaches, disorientation, nose bleeds, nausea, and vomiting. Those with diagnosed asthma and respiratory conditions should avoid Formaldehyde as they are more susceptible to its effects. 

How to spot on a label: 

Formaldehyde itself will often not be listed in the ingredients list, but common sources to avoid are synthetic fragrances, DMDM hydantoin, and quaternium-15.

5. Phosphates

What are Phosphates? 

Phosphates are typically found in oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and toilet cleaners and are made by introducing oxygen to the naturally occurring element phosphorus. Exposure to phosphates causes calcium to leach from the bones resulting in ailments such as osteoporosis. Many countries have banned phosphates due to their ability to pollute helpful nutrients and feed toxic algae. 

Potential health risks: 

Phosphates prohibit the body’s ability to use necessary nutrients such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. There are a plethora of conditions that result from being low in these nutrients. In large amounts, phosphates can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and in serious cases, calcification of vital organs. 

How to spot on a label: 

Look for names like phosphoric acid, tricalcium phosphate, or PHOS. 

6. Phthalates

What are Phthalates? 

Phthalates are substances used to make plastic more durable, flexible, and usable. They are added to plastic cleaner bottles, laundry/dish pod membranes, and other cleaning products using plastic. One way to identify whether a particular piece of plastic contains phthalates is to look for the number “3” on the inside of the recycling symbol on the bottle or container. 

Potential health risks: 

Phthalates are known endocrine and reproductive disruptors. They are also known to cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and lungs. 

How to spot on a label: 

Phthalates can be under terms such as Di(2-Ethylhexyl)Phthalate (DEHP), Di-n-butyl Phthalate, Diethyl phthalate. Sometimes, phthalates can hide under the term “fragrance” as well. 

7. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

What is Sodium Laureth Sulfate?
SLES is a popular surfactant, meaning it helps create suds or foam in soap. A common misconception is that if there are more suds, the product being cleaned will be “more clean.” Suds and foam do not equate to a product’s ability to effectively clean; therefore, SLES is completely unnecessary to add to cleaners. For more information on the suds myth, check out our “More Suds Equals More Clean: Fact or Myth” blog. SLES is derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol which is a known skin irritant. SLES is also known to be contaminated with the toxic manufacturing substance 1,4-dioxane (discussed later). 

Potential health risks: 

Due to the way SLES is made, there is a risk of dangerous carcinogenic impurities being found in this ingredient, namely Ethylene Oxide and 1,4 Dioxane. See more on 1,4 Dioxane below.

How to spot on a label: 

Aside from its original name sodium laureth sulfate, other names include sodium monolauryl sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium monolauryl sulfate. 

8. 1,4-Dioxane 

What is 1,4-Dioxane? 

In recent weeks, the substance 1,4-Dioxane has received tremendous attention. On December 31, 2022, New York officially banned the use of 1,4-Dioxane in all cleaning and personal products due to its extreme danger of being a human carcinogen. This substance is used as an industrial solvent and is a harmful by-product of manufacturing processes with a similar chemical composition to that of an ether. 

Potential health risks: 

1,4-dioxane is a known human carcinogen and should be treated with the utmost caution. It is important to steer clear of any products that contain this chemical. Other symptoms include vertigo, headaches, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. 

How to spot on a label: 

1,4 Dioxane is a contaminant that forms in ethoxylated ingredients such Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), and Polysorbates.  Keep an eye out for ingredients that end in “oxynol” or “eth” to avoid potentially contaminated products.

9. Quaternary Ammonia Compounds

What are Quaternary Ammonia Compounds? 

Quaternary Ammonia Compounds (also known as Quats or QACs) are a class of chemicals used in cleaning products as preservatives, surfactants, antistatic agents and disinfectants to kill viruses, bacteria, and mold. Quats are often found in surface cleaners, sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, sprays and liquids.  Use of products containing Quats skyrocketed during the pandemic, particularly in schools and workplaces.

Potential health risks: 

Quats have been known to cause severe skin burns, contact dermatitis, and eye damage.  They can trigger an asthma attack in those with asthma and they can also cause asthma to develop in those with no prior history. Research in mice studies has shown that some Quats may increase inflammation, disrupt the reproductive system, endocrine system, neurological system, and cause dysfunction in mitochondria and cholesterol biosynthesis.  Children, due to their smaller body weight and developing organs, are particularly vulnerable to the detrimental health effects of toxic chemicals, including Quats. 

How to spot on a label: 

Generally products containing Quaternary Ammonia Compounds will not use the term Quat or QAC on the label, but you can typically spot them by looking for any ingredient that ends in “Ammonium Chloride”.  Some commonly used Quats include Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride, Dodecyl Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride, 

Hexadecyltrimethylammonium (found in a chemical mixture called Cetrimide), and Benzalkonium Chloride.  

Summary

It can be incredibly overwhelming to shop and read ingredient labels on household products, but avoiding these ingredients will help put you on the path to success and wellness in your journey to find cleaning supplies. At Clean People, we want to equip you with an arsenal that you can actually feel good about using by offering top of line cleaning supplies with full transparency about the ingredients in them. 

NY’s legislature recently established limits on the amount of 1,4 dioxane that can be present in household cleaning, personal care, and cosmetic products sold in New York State. The law establishes a maximum allowable concentration of 2 parts per million (ppm) of 1,4 dioxane on December 31, 2022, and 1 ppm on December 31, 2023. Independent testing recently showed that many popular brands of laundry detergent EXCEED the new safety thresholds set by NY State.

1,4-dioxane is listed as a known or probable carcinogen by several scientific agencies:

• Linked to cancer on California’s Proposition 65 list
• Classified as a known animal carcinogen by the National Toxicology Program
• Labeled likely HUMAN carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

According to the EPA, it’s also present in groundwater, ambient air, and indoor environments, in addition to showing up in products we use on a daily basis.

A 2022 study* found that many conventional laundry detergents contain levels of 1,4 dioxane – even those brands labeled as ‘free & clear’ and ‘natural’. The below chart are the findings from this study. It’s important to note that many of these brands have since reformulated and are most likely now below the allowable limit of 1 PPM of 1,4 Dioxane.

You Deserve Better.

Clean People Laundry Detergent contains NO 1,4 Dioxane.

*May 2022 – Happi.com; Ingredients Matter

Are you tired of your workout clothes smelling funky no matter how many times you wash them? Have you ever wondered why your athletic gear starts to lose its stretch and moisture-wicking capabilities over time? The answer may lie in how you’re washing them.

Here are some steps to effectively wash your workout clothing: 

1. Sort your clothes – Separate your workout clothes from regular clothes and sort them by color and fabric type. This will help you avoid color bleeding and prevent fabric damage.

2. Check the labels – Before washing, read the care labels on your workout clothes. These labels provide instructions on the best washing method for each garment.

3. Pre-treat stains – If your workout clothes have tough stains, pre-treat them with a couple spritzes of Stain Spray or a mixture of Oxygen Brightener and warm water. Allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes before washing. 

4. Use the right detergent – Choose a gentle but powerful laundry detergent. Our laundry detergent sheets and pods both work great for this! Avoid fabric softeners as they can clog the fibers and reduce breathability. 

5. Wash in cold water – Cold water is gentler on fabrics and helps prevent shrinking. Use a gentle cycle and avoid washing with other items to prevent tangling. 

6. Hang dry (preferred) or tumble dry on low (always remember to read the care instructions on garments if choosing this option!) – Avoid high heat drying cycles as they can damage the fabric and elastic fibers. Instead, air dry or tumble dry on low heat. 

7. Store properly – Once your workout clothes are dry, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in a damp gym bag or crumpled in a drawer, as this can cause mold and bacteria growth. 

By following these steps, you can keep your workout clothing looking and smelling fresh for longer, ensuring that you get the most out of your activewear.

When it comes to doing laundry, it’s easy to toss everything in together and call it a day. But when it comes to your towels, it’s important to take a little extra care. Separating your towels from your other laundry can help extend their lifespan, improve their absorbency, and keep them looking and feeling their best.

Towels are heavy and absorbent, which means they take longer to dry than other fabrics. If you wash them with lighter items like t-shirts or underwear, the towels can take longer to dry and can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew. This can lead to unpleasant odors, and even pose a risk to your health, as some bacteria can cause skin infections or respiratory issues. Separating your towels and washing them on their own ensures that they get plenty of air circulation and dry thoroughly, reducing the risk of bacteria build-up.

Additionally, towels tend to produce a lot of lint. If you wash them with other items, the lint can transfer and cling to your clothes, making them look fuzzy and worn out. By separating your towels, you can reduce the amount of lint they produce and keep your other clothes looking fresh and new.

Finally, washing your towels separately can help prolong their lifespan. Over time, towels can become rough and scratchy due to buildup from fabric softeners or other laundry additives. Washing them on their own with a mild detergent and then finishing up with dryer balls can help prevent this buildup and keep your towels soft and fluffy for longer.

It’s time to start giving your towels the attention they deserve! Bonus? You’ll be rewarded with towels that are clean, absorbent, and comfortable to use!

Many of us have experienced the thrill of rummaging through our parents’ or grandparents’ closets and discovering timeless treasures like shirts, jackets, and scarves. It’s remarkable to see how once-outdated pieces are now back in style and considered “vintage.” However, most of these finds are too worn out to wear and are eventually discarded. Here are some tips on how to extend the lifespan of your favorite clothing items. Who knows? Perhaps, one day, someone else will cherish them just as much as you do.

Pre-Treat Stubborn Stains

If you accidentally stain a beloved item of clothing, the best way to improve your chances of saving it is through pre-treatment. Create a paste by mixing warm water with Oxygen Brightener or a few spritzes of Stain Spray, apply it generously to the stained area, and let it sit before washing. Alternatively, you can soak the item in cold water before washing to help loosen the stain. By taking these steps, you can increase the likelihood of removing the stain and potentially save your favorite piece of clothing.

No Need for Dry Cleaning

While many clothing labels advise “Dry Clean Only,” it’s not always necessary to follow these instructions. Dry cleaning involves using a chemical solvent to clean clothes’ surfaces, which can actually harm certain fabrics.

Fabrics such as linen, wool, and silk can safely get wet and usually fare well in a gentle or quick cycle (use a mesh bag to reduce friction). If you’re concerned about color bleeding, test a small area first. By reducing your reliance on dry cleaning, you’ll protect your clothes from unnecessary wear and tear and save money in the process.

Turn Dark Laundry Inside-Out to Prevent Fading

To prevent your dark clothes from fading, try washing them inside-out. This easy tip can help prevent the color erosion that can occur when washing dark shades like black, navy, and forest green. When you turn your clothes inside out, the fabric surfaces are less likely to rub against each other, which can cause the color to fade over time. While the interior of the garment may experience some color loss, the exterior will remain protected, keeping your clothes looking vibrant and new for longer!

Stop Overusing Laundry Detergent

Contrary to popular belief, using more detergent doesn’t always result in cleaner clothes. In fact, overdosing on detergent can cause a buildup on garments, making them feel stiff and scratchy, and lose their color over time, leading to faster aging. Overusing detergent can also result in leftover buildup, which can clog machines and cause them to become less efficient over time… say hello to costly repairs!

To avoid these issues, consider using pre-measured detergents like Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets or Pods, which are designed to provide the optimal amount of detergent per load, with no mess or guesswork required. This ensures your clothes are clean and protected, while also preserving the lifespan of your laundry!

Almost Always Use Cold Water

Opting for cold water when possible is a great way to protect your laundry. Hot water can be harsh on fabrics, causing them to shrink or stretch over time. Cold water is especially gentle on dark and bright colors since hot water can cause fading. In addition to preserving the quality of your clothes, cold water is also an energy-efficient choice that helps the environment and reduces your utility bills.

While cold water is a good choice for most items, there are some instances where warm water may be necessary, such as when washing jeans or white clothing. Reserve hot water for heavily soiled whites and towels. By making these simple adjustments to your laundry routine, you can help extend the life of your clothes and reduce your environmental impact.

Opt for a Shorter Washing Cycle

Opting for a shorter washing cycle is generally the best choice, especially if your items are not heavily soiled. This is especially true for delicate fabrics, which require a gentle cycle. By reducing the number of times your garments spin in the wash, you can extend their lifespan. Not only will this preserve the quality of your clothes, but it will also save on energy costs and help the environment by reducing water and electricity usage. Did someone say “win, win … WIN?!”

Choose the Appropriate Dryer Settings

It’s important to choose the right dryer setting to prevent damage to your clothes. “Normal” or “regular” settings can be misleading because they use high heat, which can be harmful to most garments. These settings should only be used for heavy items like towels, jeans, and bedding.

For delicate items, use the delicate setting, which provides low heat to prevent shrinking and damage to materials. Some dryers have specific settings for wool, silk, and dress shirts, providing special treatment to these types of garments. If you have an item with threaded embellishments, choose the tumble-dry setting. This setting air dries your clothes without the additional heat, ensuring your pieces stay intact. By selecting the appropriate setting, you’ll increase the lifespan of your clothes and save money on replacements.

Which one do you choose?

You may have seen our Laundry Detergent Sheets and our Laundry Detergent Pods and wondered which one would be best to use. Or, is one better than the other? The short answer is, No –  neither the sheets nor the pods are better than the other, but each can help serve a different purpose based on your washing machine’s settings and your laundry needs.

Laundry Detergent Sheets

Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets are our most popular product and are beneficial in many ways by being incredibly versatile and convenient to use. They are easy to transport and store away due to their small size. Because we have concentrated the detergent into a paper-thin strip, our laundry sheets are the perfect product to take with you on a plane or on a road trip to the beach. They will not take up much space and are simple to toss into the washing machine wherever you are staying. Plus, you can easily use the sheets to hand wash clothing while on the road!
Our Laundry Detergent Sheets are easy to tear into pieces if you have a smaller load-size. For instance, you want to wear your favorite sweater again but it got a little dirty since the last time you wore it, and you just had laundry day a few days ago –  it’s simple to toss a small load in the washing machine and tear your laundry detergent strip in half so you can cozy up in that sweater again tomorrow.

Also, Laundry Sheets never burst or leak, making them perfect for use in a home with children or pets. Children can more safely help with the laundry, without worry about any accidental spills and messes!

Laundry Detergent Pods

Clean People Laundry Detergent Pods work just as well as our Detergent Sheets and smell great, as we carry them in multiple amazing aromas! Here are some ways to know if laundry pods are the right product for you. 

Our Detergent Pods are an ideal product to use in a machine set to a low-water cycle. A low-water cycle is typically found in front-loading machines and is designed to help conserve power and energy. Be sure to check if your machine is set to a low-water cycle. 

Laundry Pods tend to have a more concentrated scent. If you love to open your washing machine and dryer and be able to smell easily that your clothes are clean and smelling fresh, our pods will definitely do that for you! Clean People Laundry Detergent Pods come in Lavender, Fresh Scent, Fragrance Free, Spring, and Sweet Petal & Vanilla. Depending on your scent preference, we’re confident you’ll find a pod fragrance that you’ll love!

When it comes to doing laundry, separating whites and darks is a pretty straightforward task. However, many people are not aware that the water temperature also plays a role while doing laundry. In many cases, people usually leave their washer on the default setting and never bother to change the water temperature option. Unfortunately, this may prove to be detrimental to the longevity and quality of your fabrics. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you determine the appropriate water temperature when you are washing your next load of laundry!

Several factors will determine what temperature of water you should use when washing your clothes. For quick reference, use hot water to help kill harmful bacteria on extremely soiled clothing, linens, socks, undergarments, and towels. Warm water is best used on jeans and other common items of clothing used for daily wear, and save cold water for delicates, and bright clothes. 

Before we delve deeper into the ideal washing temperature for certain articles, let’s cover some concepts that will enable you to make the correct decision regarding this important matter:

1. Read the Care Label:

All items of clothing come with labels or tags that provide complete care instructions including recommended water temperature settings. These instructions provide valuable information regarding how to take care of that particular item. It is important to always follow these instructions, especially if the article of clothing is brand new! 

2. Sort Laundry Correctly:

Sorting the laundry by color, soil, and weight is quite helpful. This will ensure colors don’t bleed on whites or other light-colored clothing. Heavily soiled items of clothing may need a warmer setting on the washer, and heavier clothing- blankets, curtains, jeans, bathrobes, bath towels, etc.-may benefit from being washed separately. 

3. Set to Cold Rinse:

You only need to determine the correct water temperature for the wash cycle. For the rinse cycle, using cold water is absolutely fine since it only rinses out the detergent, and has no part to play in dirt, stain, or bacteria removal. You will also save money by setting the washer to cold rinse which is an added bonus!

When to Use Cold Water

The ideal water temperature when selecting cold water is between 60 and 80°F. Using extremely cold water will be counterproductive and you may end up with laundry that’s still dirty and full of bacteria. Yuck! Also, powdered detergent may not dissolve fully in a cold water cycle. Try using an eco-responsible formula like Clean People Ultra Concentrated Laundry Detergent which comes in the form of easily dissolvable sheets and pods. CLEAN PEOPLE laundry detergent contains no Parabens, no phosphates, no added dyes, and no chlorine making it a fantastic option for you and the planet! Plus, your skin will thank you for sparing it from harsh chemicals!  

Cold water is recommended for washing dark and bright colored clothes. Delicates, woolens, knits, and light cotton items of clothing can be washed in cold water. Always check for stains and pre-treat with stain removers like Clean People Oxygen Brightener Stain Remover before running the wash cycle. Ideally, you should set the water temperature to cold on the washer as a default setting because using cold water to do the bulk of your regular laundry is energy-efficient and cost-friendly.

When to Use Warm Water

In terms of saving energy, warm water uses much less energy than hot water so its usage can be stretched to do frequent loads of laundry in short periods of time. You can wash most man-made fabrics like rayon, nylon, spandex, towels, linens, and lightly soiled clothes. While warm water cycles carry less risk of shrinkage and deterioration than using hot water, washing clothes frequently in warm water may still degrade the quality of the clothing over time.

When to Use Hot Water

Unfortunately, hot water uses a lot of energy resulting in higher power bills. It is not the most ideal temperature to wash clothing in because it leads to shrinkage and deterioration in the quality of clothing. Hot water can also cause colors to run and fade; therefore, you need to be very careful washing colored fabrics in hot water. These hot cycles should only be used to wash heavily soiled clothing, towels, and bedsheets; and since hot water can help sanitize, you can wash undergarments, kitchen towels, bath towels, and other fabrics that may attract bacteria and fungi when used. If someone in the household is sick, you can also wash their linen and bedding in hot water to help rid the fabrics of lingering bacteria from the virus! A word of caution: avoid washing lingerie, silks, lace, and other delicate fabrics in hot water since it will cause deterioration of such delicate fabrics.
**Know Your Laundry Stains: Use caution when washing food-based stains (i.e. wine, fruits, proteins, etc.) in warm/hot water since this can often set the stain in, making it much harder to remove the stain! Warm/hot cycles are, however, quite beneficial in removing stains caused by oil-based foods like butter, fat, and cooking oils!

Find our complete stain-removing guide here! 

Thanksgiving Stain Guide

Turkey, cranberry sauce, and pie, oh my; don’t let those pesky stains make you cry! 

Here are some helpful steps; to ensure your Thanksgiving outfit isn’t a mess. 

From Oxygen Brightener to Stain Spray, you’re sure to wear a smile instead of dismay!

Add hot water to Oxygen Brightener to make a paste that will tackle tough stains.

Food Grease
Put dish soap on the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before laundering with cold water, or spray down with Stain Spray and wait 15-20 minutes. Repeat if there are still traces of the stain. Remember: You should always confirm a stain is completely gone before using the dryer.

Pumpkin and Sweet Potato
Scrape off any excess with a dull knife and run the fabric inside out under cold water to flush out as much of the stain as possible. Pretreat with Oxygen Brightener Stain Remover or soak down the stain with your Stain Spray, then wash the fabric in hot water.

Cranberry Sauce
Rinse the stain with cool water. Add 1 scoop Oxygen Brightener Stain Remover to cool water. Blot the solution on the stain with a clean cloth until the spot has disappeared. For heavier stains, soak in Oxygen Brightener solution before laundering.

Red Wine
It happens to the best of us! Blot away excess liquid  with a paper towel or clean dish towel. Cover the stain with distilled white vinegar to neutralize red and purple pigments found in red wine. Sprinkle table salt generously over the stain and allow to dry. Put the garment over a bowl or sink and pull taught (if safe to do so). Pour clean, boiling water over the stained area from approximately 12 inches above the stain. Repeat as necessary until the stain is removed. Launder in the hottest water safe for the fabric and check the stain before drying. If the stain persists, make a hot water and Oxygen Brightener paste and apply to stain. After 30 minutes, launder again and repeat as needed until the stain is gone.

Chocolate
Remove any crumbs or hardened chocolate with a dry, clean toothbrush or dull knife. Add 1 tablespoon dish soap to 2 cups of warm water and apply the mixture using a microfiber cloth, gently dabbing the stain. Do not rub, which can work the stain deeper into the fabric. Repeat a few times before soaking up the solution with a clean towel. Before laundering, allow to the stain to soak in your Stain Spray or Oxygen Brightener for 30 minutes.

Gravy
Dab the gravy stain to remove any excess liquid. Do not rub! Create a paste using your Oxygen Brightener and warm water and rub it into the stain. Allow this mixture to soak into the stain for approximately 30 minutes before laundering as normal. If the stain does not go away, spray your Stain Spray and repeat laundering until the stain is gone! 

And remember: always read product labels and clothing care labels before taking action!

We hope you enjoy quality time with family and friends around the Thanksgiving table; knowing that you can be thankful for the confidence to tackle those pesky stains so they don’t ruin your holiday! 

And don’t forget – for the easiest clean up yet – make a multi-purpose spray with our

Cleaner Concentrate! Planning on cleaning up before AND after your  guests arrive? Check out our guide on the endless number of ways you can use Cleaner Concentrate in your home!

Want to learn more Stain Removing Tips and Tricks?
Check out the CLEAN PEOPLE Ultimate Stain Guide

Subscribe to Oxygen Brightener Stain Remover for our best price and ensure you never run out!

It’s Sweater Weather – that wonderful time of the year when you can snuggle up in your favorite chunky sweater and hang out with family around the campfire for Thanksgiving or throw on your favorite cardigan to go shopping for holiday presents with friends. Whatever your favorite sweater weather activity, we have some helpful tips to ensure your sweaters are always in pristine condition for this cozy time of year!

Read The Care Label On Your Garment

Because sweaters are each made from different materials, reading the label is of utmost importance. For instance, sweaters made from cashmere should never be machine washed and should only ever be hand-washed. Wool and wool blends require dry cleaning only. Cotton and cotton blend sweaters may be machine washed using Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets in a cold water or delicate cycle.

Only Wash On Every 3-5 Wears

You can freely enjoy your holiday activities no matter how strenuous knowing it is not necessary to wash your sweaters and cardigans after each wear unless they have been soiled. Typically sweaters need to be washed every 3-5 wears depending on the material of the sweater. Wool can stand up to five wears, and cotton and cashmere should ideally be 3-4 wears. If your sweater does get soiled from hot cocoa, sweet cranberry sauce, or other unfortunate stains, don’t forget to pre-treat the stains using your Clean People Oxygen Brightener or Clean People Stain Spray.

Only Wash With Other Delicate Garments

Sweaters are made from more delicate materials causing them to be more susceptible to pilling. While it is not difficult to remove pilling if it occurs, washing your sweaters with other similar garments is the most effective way to prevent pilling. Be sure to not wash them with items that contain zippers, velcro, or other harsh materials like jeans or winter jackets.

Never Dry Sweaters In The Dryer

All sweaters should be laid out to dry rather than tossed in the dryer. Common sweater materials will shrink when machine dried from a wet state. Cashmere can take a few days to air dry, and other materials can air dry fairly quickly. If you have a sweater with a lot of static cling, toss into the dryer after it is completely air-dried and use your Clean People Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets or Clean People Wool Dryer Balls to help remove that excess static!

Always Fold Sweaters To Store Them

It is a common practice to hang sweaters in the closet on hangers; however, doing so can result in unnecessary stretching and allows odd shapes to take hold in the shoulder area. Loosely fold your sweaters and stack them in a drawer or on a shelf to help them maintain their shape and elasticity. 

We hope you enjoy this cozy sweater weather season with family and friends, and that these tips will give you the confidence you need to know you’re taking care of your delicate sweaters the right way! Cozy up by the fire, drink that hot cocoa, and have a happy sweater weather season!

At one point in time, you may have thought to yourself, “Am I washing my sheets enough? Am I washing them too much? What should I be washing my bedding with?” Or maybe you’ve woken up to itchy skin or a rash and you’ve searched your bedding high and low thinking a bug bit you during the night. Whatever experience you’ve had when it comes to properly washing your bedding, we at CLEAN PEOPLE are going to guide you through the answers to the why, when, and how!

Why is it important to wash your bedding properly?

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? It is the body’s first line of defense to harmful toxins in the air! Each night when you are asleep, your skin cells regenerate and repair themselves from the damages and toxins it was exposed to during the day. 

Our skin is also quite porous (in case you haven’t noticed that pesky sweat in the summer); therefore, whatever comes in contact with our skin can be easily absorbed into our bloodstream. Common items that come in contact with our skin include lotion, body wash, and you called it – fabrics! We often don’t think of our laundry detergent as a culprit for toxic substances being absorbed by our skin, but it is! 

The laundry detergent that you use and the method you go about washing your bedding could be the cause of major skin irritations like contact dermatitis. Chemicals such as parabens, dyes, and preservatives are unnatural toxins that our skin cannot process leading to red, itchy, and scaly rashes all over our bodies. 

Because your skin is in the process of renewal and healing at night, it can potentially be even more vulnerable to side effects of toxic laundry detergent. This is why we recommend washing your bedding with safe ingredients found in our Laundry Products! By washing your bedding with clean ingredients (no pun intended!), you could be saving your skin and overall health some major trouble! 

When should you wash your bedding?

Now that we have covered the why of washing your bedding, we are going to discuss the when of washing your bedding. At one point in your adulthood, you may have had a conversation with a friend or family member about when they typically strip their beds and wash their sheets, quilts, and comforters. Truthfully, most people differ in their opinions of how often to wash their bedding! Some say that they shower at night so they are clean; therefore, they only wash their bedding once a month, while others wash their bedding on the same day every week because they like to have a certain cleaning routine to ensure that it is always clean. 

So, which person is right in these scenarios? Most studies recommend washing your sheets at least once a week, if not more, depending on the humidity of the environment you live in. Even if you bathe every night, skin cells, oils, and bodily fluids tend to build-up, attracting critters like bed bugs, fleas, and other unappealing mites! If you have pets who like to lounge on your bed with you, you may consider washing your bedding more often to avoid extra dirt, dander, and hair build-up. 

To cut down on the frequency of washing, try bathing before bedtime if you don’t already do so. Also make it a habit to not sit or lay on your bed after working out, being outside, or participating in other vigorous activities.

**One important thing to remember is to always check the washing instructions when you purchase bedding. Some bedding can only be dry-cleaned which means you will not be able to wash it as much, resulting in dirtier bedding in between washes!

How should you wash your bedding?

Lastly, and arguably most important, is the process by which you wash your bedding. Most people enjoy the resulting effect of washing their bedding. After doing so, you get to enjoy a warm, soft, and cozy bed! There’s just something about fresh, crisp bedding that just seems to help you sleep better at night, and by following these simple steps you can rest assured that your sheets are clean from dirt, and also from toxic materials!

1. Separate bedding and sheets from other fabrics.
   While it can be tempting to want to mix loads to save time, it is not best to wash sheets with your other clothing or towels. This has several advantages. First, it gives the sheets more room to circulate in the water, which allows them to get cleaner. When items are washed together, they can become tangled, which reduces the effectiveness of the washing process. By washing sheets on their own, they have more space to move around and get thoroughly clean. Washing bedsheets alone also prevents damage caused by zippers and other fasteners. These items can catch on the sheets during the washing process and cause tears or other damage. By washing sheets separately, you reduce the risk of this happening and prolong the life of your bedding. In addition, washing sheets on their own reduces the amount of pilling that can happen over time. Pilling occurs when the fibers in the fabric rub together and create small balls or bumps on the surface. This can happen more frequently when items are washed together, as the friction between different fabrics can cause more wear and tear. By washing sheets alone, you minimize the risk of pilling and keep your bedding looking and feeling like new for longer.
2. Ditch the bleach and opt for a safer stain-remover before washing.
   Not only is bleach extremely toxic for the environment, it can be quite irritating for the skin and respiratory system. If you have small children in the house, it’s best to ditch the bleach anyway to avoid any harmful accidents! Instead, treat stains before hand with our Stain Spray or you can add our Oxygen Brightener to the wash cycle to brighten up your white bedding. 
   
3. Use Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets or Clean People Laundry Detergent Pods in a warm, delicate cycle, and remove immediately as the cycle ends to avoid wrinkles.
   To get the best results when washing sheets, use a gentle detergent and choose a cycle that is appropriate for the fabric. If your sheets are made of delicate materials, such as silk or linen, opt for a delicate or hand-wash cycle. Be sure to check the care label on your sheets to determine the appropriate temperature and cycle length for washing. And always separate sheets by color to prevent bleeding or fading.
4. This may seem like an ancient practice, but if you can hang your bedding outside to dry in the bright sunlight, your bedding will thank you as this will increase the lifespan of your sheets! 
   Tumbling around in a dryer all the time can increase pilling and damage to your sheets; therefore, less is more in this case. If there’s no way around using a dryer, then opt for our Wool Dryer Balls or Fabric Softening Dryer Sheets to create super soft, static-free sheets ready for a good night’s sleep!
5. Enjoy a restful night’s sleep knowing your skin and sheets are free from toxic ingredients and your bedding is clean and free of dirt and other unwanted materials!
   
   **Pro-tip #1: add ¼ c. of vinegar to the softener dispenser in your washing machine to increase disinfecting power after illness or allergy season, and to increase the softening power of your detergent!**Pro-tip #2: Add 2-3 drops of lemon or lavender essential oil to your Wool Dryer Balls to add a subtle scent to fabrics without the toxic fragrance ingredients most detergents have! By following these tips and washing your sheets separately, you can keep them looking and feeling their best for years to come.
   
   Happy laundering! 

It’s that time of year, again! That bittersweet time for your little ones (or your teenagers!) to pack up their backpacks and head off to another exciting school year! During the school year you’ve probably experienced frustration when your children come home and have grown out of their clothes seemingly overnight or added a few rips and stains in their clothes during recess. As stressful as going back to school can be for parents and children alike, we want to take some stress off of you by guiding you through four common school-related stains and easy ways to rid your children’s clothes of those pesky stains that like to tag along on the bus home with them!

1. Mud

Mud is one of the most common stains found on children’s clothing. From recess after a big rain, to football and soccer practice, mud can be a frustrating stain for parents to try to get out of their children’s clothes. To get rid of these muddy stains, simply start with a dull butter knife and scrape off any dry, loose mud off of the fabric. After that, use a scoop of your Clean People Oxygen Brightener with a little warm water to create a spreadable paste. Using an old toothbrush, lightly scrub the paste into the stain on both sides of the fabric. Let this mixture sit for 15 minutes and then wash as normal using your Clean People Laundry Detergent Pods or Detergent Sheets, and enjoy mud-free clothes (at least until next time!).

2. Ink 

Ink is another annoying culprit of frustrating stains. During school, your children may like to take their pens apart and play with them or hoard them in their pants’ pocket, and inevitably their pen breaks or the ink spills in their backpacks and comes into contact with their clothes. Although this type of stain can seem very daunting to remove, here are some simple suggestions. Find an alcohol-based solvent such as hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, or hairspray and use enough to saturate the stained area. Let this sit for a few minutes, then dab with a towel or cloth soaked in water or that same solvent. Finally, wash on a cold cycle since warm water will potentially set the stain in further.

**Use caution when applying solvents to clothing as they could potentially cause color damage. Test the colorfastness by applying the solvent first to an inconspicuous area such as the bottom hem of pants or the back collar of a shirt where hair might cover.

3. Juice 

We all enjoyed a yummy, cold juice box on a hot day after recess or a bottle of post-workout after basketball practice. Unfortunately, accidents happen sometimes and juice may get spilled on your children’s white uniform polos or their outfit for tomorrow night’s recital, and you’ve probably thought that the world was ending! Here are some ways to ensure an easy performance from your washing machine when removing those juice stains. First, encourage your children to blot all food/drink stains as soon as they happen to reduce the amount of traveling the stain does on the fabric. Next, soak the fabric in a mixture of 1 quart of warm water and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar for approximately 15 minutes. Lightly sponge some rubbing alcohol and then wash as normal with your Clean People Laundry Detergent and a scoop of your Clean People Oxygen Brightener to help boost the stain-fighting action.

4. Sweat 

Our body’s sweat is made up primarily of water, ammonia, salt, and sugar which are all colorless and odorless substances. However, once they become mixed with other substances such as deodorant, chemicals in clothing, and bacteria they can become yellow or brown and, in turn, stain the clothing in which they come into contact. This can be quite a frustrating ordeal since, unfortunately, it cannot be avoided. Here are some ways to make laundry day easier when washing your children’s sweaty clothes. First, mix 1 cup of vinegar with 2 cups of warm water and rinse the stained areas. Launder as normal while adding a scoop of your Clean People Oxygen Brightener  to boost stain removal. 

**Laundry Hack: For removing sweat stains, a good last resort option if nothing else works, is to rub lemon juice on the stain and allow it to sit and dry in the sun for a few hours. Lemon reacts with the sun to help lighten and brighten whatever it comes into contact with! 

You may think that buying that latest and greatest washing machine and dryer will solve all of your laundry woes. You may even think that as long as everything gets clean, then you’re good to go and that the details don’t matter! That’s simply not true! The details surrounding your laundry day matter a great deal when it comes to getting the most mileage out of your clothes! Fortunately, reversing these 10 mistakes will help your laundry game become easier and much more efficient!

1. Forgetting to check pockets.

We’ve all been there, right? You open up your washing machine and see that pen that bled all over your clothes, or perhaps, you find some long lost change rolling around. Not checking pockets and removing items like these is one of the biggest culprits for damaging or completely ruining your clothes! 

2. Incorrectly sorting fabrics. 

Everyone knows to sort your clothes based on their color before you wash them, but did you know that it is just as important to sort your clothes by their fabric type as well? For instance, your jeans should not be paired with your nice silk blouse just because they both happen to be blue. Those jeans would be too abrasive and will eventually cause damage to more delicate materials! It’s better to sort by color AND by fabrics. Keep your delicates together and your more abrasive materials together!

3. Not cleaning your machines.

This mistake is an extremely common mistake! Most people do not know or have never been taught to clean their machines often. Studies recommend deep cleaning washing machines once a month and cleaning the dryer vent after every load. We often don’t think that a machine that cleans our clothes would also need cleaning. The truth is, water, dirt, hair, and other debris gets removed from our clothes and tends to build up in the machine causing mold and mildew to grow, and in turn, the machine will not work properly! So remember to run a cleaning cycle on your washing machine at least once per month using our Clean People Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets.

4. Overfilling the washing machine drum.

When filling up your washing machines and dryers, it is important that they not be overfilled. If you try to shove too many clothes into the drum, the water and detergent will not be able to efficiently reach everything, and your clothes will come out still smelling dirty and not truly being clean!

5. Leaving shirts buttoned.

As clothes tumble and spin in the washing machine and dryer, buttons on shirts (and sometimes pants) will start to become loose if they remain buttoned during washing and drying! The reason for this is that the buttons will be continuously pulled causing the threads to stretch and tear and eventually, you will end up with missing buttons! 

6. Forgetting to leave clothes zipped.

If you’ve ever felt a zipper, then you know it is rough and could potentially cause damage to other fabrics if it gets caught. Leave those zippers zipped so that they do not get caught on other articles of clothing and cause unnecessary pilling and loose threads!

7. Not pretreating stains.

Pre-treat stains immediately after they happen! Doing this will prohibit the stain from setting in too much and keep you from having to wash your clothes more than once to remove stains. At CLEAN PEOPLE we have two fantastic stain-removing options–our Stain Remover Spray and our Oxygen Brightener!

8. Using the wrong washing temperature.

Always be sure to double check the tags on your clothing before washing! Using the wrong temperature could cause your clothes to shrink or even cause heat damage to more delicate fabrics! Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets are formulated to work just as well in cold water as it does in hot water –  that way you don’t have to use different brands of detergent for your laundry needs!

9. Using the dryer on the wrong items.

It can be a little overwhelming to know which fabrics should or should not be put in the dryer, and this makes it tempting to just throw everything in; however, doing that could cause damage or even ruin your fabrics! Some common items that would be better air-dried are: knitted/woven fabrics, leather/faux leather, silk, spandex/lycra, and wool.

10. Using too much laundry detergent.

While it can be tempting to use more than enough detergent because it feels like your clothes must be “cleaner” if you do, you may actually be causing them to become dull and lifeless! When you use too much detergent, your washing machine will not be able to get all of the soap out, and your clothes will become stiff and eventually discolored. Plus, too much detergent can actually damage your washing machine – ultimately taking a toll on your wallet when your machine is in need of a repair. 

Fixing these top 10 mistakes will not only make laundry day much easier, but will also be more friendly on your wallet! Plus, you’ll be able to get more mileage out of your clothing! That’s a win-win in our book!

When we are cleaning, seeing a lot of bubbles often makes us believe that our cleaning is more effective. Is there evidence to back this up, or is this just a myth that we have convinced ourselves of? Short answer: It’s a myth that has been perpetuated for many decades! 

Read along to find out why.

What are suds?

Foam and lather is created by different additives in soap mixing with water and air during a wash. Two of the most common foaming additives found in conventional detergents are sodium laureth sulfate (SLS) and ammonium lauryl sulfate (ALS) – chemicals added for the mere purpose of creating those bubbles we’ve all come to associate with “clean” ; however, it has very little to do with the actual cleaning power of the soap! What you should be looking for is a good natural surfactant (the true superstar of clean laundry!) that will perform the same way. Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water allowing dirt and oil to be lifted from the fabric’s surface and then rinsed away in the wash cycle.

What should I look for? 

Sudsing chemicals are commonly added to popular brands to convince their consumers that their product is working better than one of their competitors, but it is more important to look at the ingredients of the soap rather than the amount of bubbles it produces. 

When shopping for laundry detergent and other cleaning products, look for natural surfactants! These are going to be the products that will truly clean your clothes and not just make pretty bubbles. Some natural surfactants to look for include: Cocamidopropyl Betaine (derived from coconuts and used to clean), Octyl Glucoside (a non-ionic membrane remover), and Sulfonic Acids (an organic cleaning agent). Each of these are found in CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent!

Why bother?

When you see a lot of bubbles in your cleaning routine, you may think it’s truly clean; and while that may be true, the excess soap particles left behind could also be damaging to your laundry if not rinsed out thoroughly. The wash cycle hasn’t completely rinsed out all of the soap if your laundry comes out feeling a little waxy. That’s why CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Sheets are intentionally made with a low sudsing formula. Though few suds may be visible during the wash cycle, rest assured the detergent is still hard at work ensuring that your clothing is clean and free of leftover soap. If it looks, smells, and actually feels clean, then it more than likely is good to go! 

Do you have a particular day of the week that you have dubbed “laundry day”?!

Perhaps, on this day you throw everything into piles without thinking twice about when or how often you wore that particular fabric. Perhaps, even, you may be on the other end of the spectrum and can’t remember the last time you washed that pair of jeans or that set of bed sheets! Trust us, we’ve all been there and done that! You might be surprised to find that some articles of clothing don’t need to be washed as much as you think, and some fabrics need to be washed more than you might think! Fortunately, by following these guidelines, you’ll find brighter, cleaner, and longer-lasting laundry that will save you time and money. 

Clothing

We have broken down how often you should wash your clothing by the number of wears to make it easier! There are a few factors to take into account when deciding how often to wash something. For instance, if you sweat a lot during the day, it is probably wise to go ahead and wash those clothes that came into contact with your sweat to avoid unwelcome odors! CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Sheets and CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Pods are fantastic tools to help get the job done! 

Wash these items after – 

Every Wear:  Shirts, Blouses, Underwear, Socks, Workout Clothes

Every 3-4 Wears: Pajamas, Dresses, Skirts, Dress Pants, Button-Down Shirts 

Every 5-6 Wears: Sweaters, Jeans, Winter Clothing (depending on the amount of use), Other OuterWear

**It is important to remember that some items of clothing like suits, special fabrics, and some winter jackets need to be professionally laundered every 5-6 wears!

Common Household Fabrics

We have broken down these common household fabrics into a schedule to make it a little easier to remember. For example, you may find it easier to remember to wash your bedding on Mondays than to calculate how much time you spent using your bedding! Always be sure to look at the tags on these items to know whether it can be machine washed and dried and what cycle it should be washed on. 

Every Day: Washcloths, Hand Towels, Dish Towels 

Every Week: Sheets, Pillowcases, Commonly Used Blankets, Bath Towels (possibly more than once a week depending on different factors) 

Every Month: Pillow Liners, Bath Mats, Mattress Pads, Bed Quilts

Every 3 Months: Shower Curtains, Throw Blankets, Throw Rugs 

Every 6 Months: Pillows, Comforters, Window Curtains

Hacks  to Make “Laundry Day” Easier:

1. Keep a calendar or checklist nearby to keep track of when you last washed certain household items, and collect those items in need of laundering. 
2. Separate fabrics not only by their color (i.e. whites, lights, colors, etc.), but also by their texture and cleanliness. For instance, you shouldn’t wash your child’s muddy soccer clothes with your favorite date-night pants or skirt; therefore, you’ll want to wash those separately even if they are the same color. You’ll also want to keep abrasive fabrics away from more delicate, fragile fabrics to maintain the quality of your clothing!
3. Pre-treat any stains with CLEAN PEOPLE Stain Remover Spray or with a paste of hot water and CLEAN PEOPLE Oxygen Brightener. 
4. Always remember to empty your dryer’s lint filter! This will ensure that it’s drying properly and thoroughly and will keep your clothes from developing any unwanted odors. 
5. Use CLEAN PEOPLE Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets to help keep your clothes smelling fresher and looking cleaner for longer.

At CLEAN PEOPLE, we hope these tips will help you take a daunting household chore, and make it easier and more organized. 

Remember: more is not always better, and sometimes wearing a piece of clothing more than once before washing it will help your clothes look and feel better. Plus, it will save you money on detergent in the long run!

Feel the Urge to Overload Your Machine with Too Much Laundry Detergent? Here are The Effects This Can Have on Your Clothes and Machine!

If you are obsessed with things in your home being clean, like we are, then you may find it tempting to overfill your washing machine with too much detergent. When using powder or liquid detergent, most people tend to overdose which is not only bad for your clothes and machine but also for your wallet! The thought is that, somehow, using more soap will make your laundry “cleaner.” We’re here to tell you, that is not the case at all; however, it is just the opposite. Using the incorrect amount of detergent for the size of the load you are washing can lead to smelly, dull clothes and to a machine that will wear down much faster!

What is “Enough” Detergent?

It’s safe to say most people get confused by the different numbers on the plastic detergent cup that comes with your store-bought detergent. How do you know when to fill to “1”? How do you know when to fill all the way to “5”? Then, a few weeks later, you recycle your empty jug only to wonder, “Did I really get 96 loads of laundry out of this bottle?” The answer is “No!” More than likely, you ended up using too much detergent for each load; and in turn, wasted your detergent and money! 

Studies show that the average load of laundry only needs 1 tablespoon of detergent in order to be clean, and 2 tablespoons for a large load (considered around 12 pounds)! At CLEAN PEOPLE, we aim to take the guesswork out of your everyday household chores with our pre-measured CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Sheets and our CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Pods.  

What if My Laundry Needs an Extra Boost?

No two loads of laundry are the same! Sometimes, loads consist of sports clothing from the kids, or something the dog soiled, or even just everyday clothes that feel more dingy than normal. If you think your laundry needs a little boost of cleaner, try soaking it first in a vinegar bath for a few hours with 1 cup of vinegar and 1 quart of warm water. Laundry stripping to rid your fabrics of buildup and odor has also become popular in the social media world as of late. Simply add ½ cup of borax, ½ cup of washing soda, and a small amount of detergent to a bathtub of hot water. Throw your laundry in and let it soak for a few hours, then toss it into your washing machine and wash with our  Laundry Detergent Sheets or Laundry Detergent Pods.

How to Run a Load of Laundry the Clean People Way

1. Pre-treat any stains with the CLEAN PEOPLE Stain Remover before laundering. 
2. Choosing either a very warm or hot cycle, add our CLEAN PEOPLE Oxygen Brightener directly to the drum if your fabrics need extra stubborn stains removed. (Pro-tip: To treat those really stubborn stains, make a paste of the CLEAN PEOPLE Brightener and water and let it sit on the stain for two hours before washing.)
3. Place the correct amount of CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Sheets or Detergent Pods directly into the drum before adding laundry.
4. Add laundry and wash on a warm or hot cycle.
5. Dry immediately using CLEAN PEOPLE Wool Dryer Balls or CLEAN PEOPLE Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets
6. Enjoy truly clean laundry that isn’t stiff and dull from too much detergent! 

We hope these tips and tricks will help give you confidence that a little goes a long way! We hope you enjoy using your Clean People laundry items to give you that fresh clean feel without the harsh chemicals!

Mysterious discoloration or bleach spots on your colored clothing, towels, and fabrics after washing…what’s the culprit and what do you do about it?

Have you ever pulled your favorite sweater out of the washer and been horrified to find it has discolored splotches or a gooey substance stuck to the front? Have you noticed your towels look like they’ve been bleached, but you’ve never used bleach on them?  

What could be happening?  Is it the detergent?  Is the washer broken?  Or is it something else entirely?  We’ve done the research and have found the culprit!

Sneaky Bleach

We all know not to pour chlorine bleach directly onto colored fabrics, but did you know bleach can linger in the dispensing tray from a previous cycle and secretly sabotage your next wash? We recommend ditching the chlorine bleach altogether for an eco-responsible option such as our Clean People Oxygen Brightening Powder that won’t ruin your fabrics. It’s safe with colored and white fabrics and is just as effective at boosting your detergent’s cleaning power as regular chlorine bleach. When using our brightening powder, it is important to remember to wash your laundry with the hottest water temperature possible for your fabrics, since hot water helps the powder dissolve best.  

Also, watch out for bleach and harsh chemicals in your household detergents and cleaning products. Some of these chemicals can linger on your towels and cause bleach spots to occur on other items being washed together (they also tend to be quite irritating to the skin and respiratory systems). Make sure you’re using a detergent that is free from chlorine bleach, like our Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets and Ultra Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent Pods, and try to swap out harsh household cleaning products for our Cleaner Concentrate to prevent unwanted bleaching or fading.

Another source of those sneaky bleaching chemicals can be found in personal care products! Benzoyl peroxide-containing acne medications, peroxide teeth whitening gels, and whitening toothpastes can all have a bleaching effect on clothing and towels. Be sure to read the labels of these products and avoid spilling them on colored fabrics. If you do spill them on a hand towel, for example, rinse in cold water to remove as much of the product as possible. Then make a paste of baking soda and water and apply this to the stained area.  Allow to dry, then brush off any remaining baking soda. Wash normally, and it’ll be like the bleach was never there!

Detergent Deposits & Stains

Detergent is supposed to clean your clothes, but sometimes it can be the reason for those stains you’re seeing. Some of those discolored spots you’re seeing are actually from undissolved detergent. As tempting as it can be sometimes, try to avoid overloading the washer and allow enough room for water and clothing to tumble around, which is part of the magic that cleans your clothes! Also, if there’s no room for water to move completely through the clothing, the detergent may not be washed out properly, resulting in residue and stains left behind. We recommend never filling your washer drum more than ¾ full!

If using detergent sheets or pods, always place them in the bottom of the drum first and then put the clothing on top. The water is usually pumped into the drum via the tiny holes in the bottom of the washer, so you want the detergent to be closest to the water source in order to properly dissolve.  

If you do end up with detergent stains on your laundry, don’t worry, we got you!  Just soak the item in a sink or bathtub with a solution of 4 cups of water to 1 cup of white distilled vinegar. First, agitate the stain by wetting it in the solution and rubbing it against the rest of the fabric. Then allow the fabric to soak for one hour then rewash alone or with a small load. Check the garment prior to putting it in the dryer. If the stain remains, repeat the soaking step, but don’t dry, since drying will set the stain. 

Fabric Softener Stains

Fabric softeners can also have the same effect as detergents when they either don’t get washed away properly, or in the case of dryer sheets, get pinned against a garment in an overstuffed dryer. You’ll know it’s a fabric softener stain, because it will feel waxy or oily. If you catch the stain right after washing, add 1 cup of distilled white vinegar directly to the washer drum, and rewash with a small load. If you didn’t catch the stain until after it came out of the dryer, then soak the item overnight in a solution of 2-3 scoops of Clean People Oxygen Brightener Powder and hot water. In the morning, ring the fabric out and put directly into the washer. Don’t rinse! Run a normal wash cycle without detergent or fabric softener. Oxygen Brightener is not for use on wool, leather, or silk, but any other white or colored fabrics you can clean in the washing machine are good to go!

Cold Water Washes

If you’re someone who washes your clothes in cold water only, you may not actually be getting them clean. That’s right! Dirt, germs, sweat, hard water minerals, and even skin particles (yuck!) are not likely to be fully removed in cooler water temperatures. These particles tend to build up on fabrics and also in your washer over time, producing a “sludge” in your machine.  Sometimes this sludge can dislodge and enter the wash cycle, appearing as gray marks on your laundry.  Use warm or hot water occasionally if the fabric allows and also try adding a ½ cup of vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser tray to help boost the effectiveness of your cold water wash cycle.

To stop the washer sludge before it ruins your new jeans or favorite shirt, perform regular cleaning cycles on your washer.  We recommend using our new Clean People Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets  once per month for maintenance, but if you’ve had issues with mysterious staining or your washer has a bad odor, you may need to run up to 6 consecutive cleaning cycles to completely dissolve and wash away that buildup.

How to Run a Sludge Busting Cleaning Cycle with Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets:

1. Open the convenient single tablet packet and place the tablet in the empty washer drum. Do not put the tablet in the dispensing tray! You can also use a half dose of detergent if you don’t have Cleaner Tablets yet.
2. Run a washing machine cleaning cycle if the machine has one; and if not, run a regular wash cycle with hot water.
3. Once the cycle is complete, gently pull back the rubber door seal and wipe down with a towel or sponge. 
4. Repeat the cycle up to 6 times depending on severity of odor and staining occurring.
5. Once done, clean the detergent drawer with a soft cloth or long handle brush soaked in a solution made of equal parts vinegar and water, and a ½ capful of Clean People Cleaner Concentrate. Pay special attention to the top where the water comes from.  

We hope these tips and tricks will help you identify where the mysterious stains are coming from, so you can stop them in their tracks before they come between you and your favorite fabrics! 

What is hard water?

You have probably heard the terms “hard water” and “soft water,” but what do those terms really mean? The tap water in your home contains dissolved minerals; the level of the mineral content, specifically calcium and magnesium, is what determines the “hardness” of your water. The higher the mineral content, the harder the water is.

Do you know if you have hard water?

If you notice white buildup on your shower head, difficulty getting shampoo to lather, or find your clothes feel stiff or look dingy coming out of the wash, you may have hard water. You can find out how hard your water is by contacting the utility provider in your area; or, if your property runs on a well, you can get the water tested yourself. The map below shows average water hardness by region, measured as dissolved calcium carbonate in milligrams per liter.  The general scale for water hardness is as follows: 0 to 60 mg/L is classified as soft; 61 to 120 mg/L as moderately hard; 121 to 180 mg/L as hard; and more than 180mg/L as very hard. It is estimated that up to 85% of US residents have hard water.

Water Map Source: https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/map-water-hardness-united-states

Why does it matter?

While having additional minerals in your water can be great for your health, it is not great for cleaning or for your home. Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your plumbing lines, faucets and fixtures, and in your dishwasher and washing machine.  It can also reduce the performance of soaps and detergents by binding to their cleaning ingredients, resulting in the need to use more detergent to get the desired level of performance. You may know that hard water causes water spots and residue on dishes, but did you know hard water can also damage fabrics and clothes over time? This happens when mineral deposits gradually build up on clothing, weakening and discoloring the fabric.

How to boost performance of detergents in hard water areas?

Our recommendation differs a little between the dishes and laundry, so let’s break it down based on application.

For Your Dishwasher:

First, use a high-quality detergent like our Clean People Dishwasher Detergent Packs with water-softening agents, which will minimize the effect of hard water during the wash cycle.

For extra defense against hard water, use vinegar! Because vinegar is highly acidic, it creates a charge in the mineral particles causing them to attract to the water molecules and be easily washed away. We recommend running a vinegar rinse in your dishwasher once per month and before switching to a new detergent-especially when switching from conventional detergents to an eco-responsible one! If you have tried a new detergent in your dishwasher and noticed water spots and residue on dishes, the problem is likely to be hard water; using a vinegar rinse can help! Here is how to try this simple trick:

1. Start with an empty dishwasher.  Pull out the bottom rack and remove any bits of food that may be stuck to the bottom of the washer. Replace the rack when done.
2. Find and remove your filter.  Rinse under hot water, scrub with dish soap and a soft cloth or toothbrush to remove grease and particles, then lock back into your washer.
3. Fill a dishwasher-safe mug or bowl with a cup of distilled white vinegar and place it on the top rack.  For an extra boost, add ½ a capful of Clean People Cleaner Concentrate to the vinegar. Now run your dishwasher on a normal hot water cycle without detergent. Never put vinegar in the detergent dispenser as it may damage internal components!
4. Once this is complete and the dishwasher has cooled down, wipe down the door and bottom of the washer with a soft cloth, and you are done!

For Your Washing Machine:

Hard water minerals bind to ingredients in laundry detergent, which means you may have to use up to a third more detergent than you would in soft water conditions! It’s also recommended to wash your clothing on the highest water temperature that’s acceptable for the fabric being washed. We know that neither of these options are good for your budget or the planet, so we suggest using a high-quality laundry detergent that contains non-ionic surfactants, like our Clean People Laundry Detergent Sheets and Ultra Concentrated Laundry Pods. These non-ionic surfactants, which are typically not found in powdered detergents, are less likely to bind to hard water minerals, freeing up more cleaning power to get the job done.

For most fabrics that can be washed in the washing machine, you can use vinegar during the rinse cycle periodically to soften and reduce mineral build up.  Simply add up to ½ cup of white distilled vinegar where you would normally add fabric softener. Don’t worry! Your clothes won’t come out smelling like vinegar!  Vinegar is not recommended on wool, chiffon, velvet, silk, rayon or acetate fabrics. Always check the garment’s label for specific care instructions.

Lastly, a clean washing machine runs and smells better, so remember to run a cleaning cycle on your washing machine at least once per month using our Clean People Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets. This will keep your washer components free from hard water-related soap scum build up, which can reduce water pressure and performance. Follow these easy steps to keep your washing machine looking, smelling, and running like new!

1. Open the convenient single tablet packet and place the tablet in the empty washer drum. Do not put the tablet in the dispensing tray!
2. Run a washing machine cleaning cycle if the machine has one; and if not, run a regular wash cycle with hot water.
3. Once the cycle is complete, gently pull back the rubber door seal and wipe down with a towel or sponge.
4. Continue with your normal laundry routine and enjoy clean, bright, fresh-smelling clothes each time! 

“Recyclable” Plastic Laundry Detergent Jugs:

Where do they end up?

It comes as no surprise that when walking down the laundry detergent aisle at the grocery store, you suddenly find yourself in a colorful sea of plastic. What’s lesser known is the effects these so-called “recyclable” items have on the environment. These plastics heavily contribute to the seemingly immeasurable amount of plastic waste generated annually in the United States alone. Instead of being recycled, roughly 70% of these conventional bottles and jugs end up in landfills and oceans.

In a U.S. 2018 measurement, 14,530 (in thousands of tons) Total Plastic Containers and Packaging were generated. Out of this, only 1,980 (in thousands of tons) were recycled, while 10,090 (in thousands of tons) ended up in landfills.

To top it off – every year, 8 million metric tons end up in our oceans. Over time, these plastics reduce into micro-plastics that are consumed by marine life – both injuring these species as well as contaminating our food supply.

At CLEAN PEOPLE, our goal is to reduce single-use plastics from landfills and oceans one jug at a time. 

Thank you for helping us reach our goal. <3