Zeolite in the Laundry

Washing machines can become contaminated with E.coli and other bacteria. Some heavy metals may also get into the washing water through fabric dyes and petroleum product stains on work clothes. Zeolite powder helps to control the growth and proliferation of E.coli and other bacteria and its binding ability traps and holds heavy metals. Zeolite also softens the water. You will find that when you use zeolite in the laundry you won’t have to use as much detergent. If you want to eliminate detergent completely, try using a combination of zeolite powder and white vinegar. Zeolite is environmentally friendly as it helps to remove much of the toxic matter from grey water.

Washing

I’ve been using zeolite powder for soaking and washing for many years and strongly recommend that you try it the way I do, by adding about 1 – 2 teaspoons at the same time as the detergent.

People with chemical sensitivities can use zeolite powder on its own without using any detergents at all. Add about one heaped teaspoon to a small load or a heaped tablespoon to a large dirty load. White vinegar can also be added to the load with the zeolite powder.

I was told ages ago by an engineer that I should be careful of zeolite building up in the washing machine and causing a malfunction but this hasn’t happened at all. I use a top loading machine which has been working well for more than fifteen years.

If you have a new washing machine and want to be cautious, add the zeolite to a cup of water and let it stand for a few minutes until the larger particles settle. Pour the zeolite water into the washing machine, leaving the sediment in the bottom of the cup.

Soaking

To remove odours from smelly socks, soak them for a few hours or overnight in a small bucket of water with 1 – 2 teaspoons of zeolite powder added.

Soaking in zeolite also helps to remove dirt and grease. After soaking, rinse well before adding to the washing load.

Dry Cleaning

A friend told me that, as she is very sensitive to dry cleaning chemicals, she had sprinkled zeolite powder onto an overcoat which could not be washed. She left it for a day or so then took it outside and shook the powder out and found that the unpleasant odour which had been lingering in the coat had been significantly reduced. Repeat if necessary.

There are a lot more anti-pollution skin and bath care tips and recipes outlined in the book 'Australian Zeolite Facts & Practical Uses'.