Soap Nuts [closed]

Everyone already probably knows that I am a supporter for healthier options for cleaning my home and washing clothes, so when I was approached to try out Soap Nuts from Demetria Organics, I was very excited!

Soap Nuts (also referred to as soap berries) are the fruit grown on the Sapindus Mukorossi tree. The shells of the berry contain a natural cleaning agent called saponin. When they come into contact with water and agitation occurs, the saponin is then released. Saponin is naturally low sudsing which makes this a perfect natural laundry detergent alterative for all washing machines including high efficiency machines.

When I received my sample, I have to admit, my first thought was – is this REALLY going to clean our laundry?

I was happy and surprised when they did … over and over again with the same soap nuts! My toddler clothes came out clean and best of all, they didn’t irritate my daughters very sensitive skin! I also washed the baby bedding and clothes with the soap nuts knowing that my new baby would not have to worry about any chemicals against her brand new skin.

I decided to give them a good test by washing some of our clothes we wore out to my parents farm. These clothes come back from outside play with the dog, cats and farm mess. Again, clean clothes without any perfume smells!! I’m hooked and with their great price, it’s an easy switch for our family!

The Ispiration

During the winter of 2009 I began researching greener & more healthful cleaning alternatives. I was gradually getting more frustrated with the products on the market. I found companies were not being so forthcoming about the ingredients in the products (using such tactics as putting ingredients on the backs of labels & placing the “good” ingredients in easy to see places on the label & the hiding the “not so good” ingredients amongst other text somewhere on the label.)

I came across soap nuts during my search & after trying them was a convert. We have partnered with a fair-trade organization directy in Nepal, so are dealing directly with the source.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a mom running your own business?

It is hard to choose one thing because there are so many aspects that truly are a joy. I would have to say hearing feedback from customers & having them as excited about the product as you are. I always have to giggle when customers say “I’m actually excited to do my laundry!” It is gratifying when you can see your dream & vision really start to bloom..

What’s your motivation?

I am naturally self-motivated when it comes to running the business but building relationships with our customers & suppliers is what keeps it going. I like that consumers want to become more educated about their purchases on various levels (financial, health, sustainability). Not every product is right for every person & traditional marketing is directed to “make the sale”. I want to see consumers see all their options and choose what works for them, not just make that instant sale. If we can provide information to consumers & work to bring in quality products that they can feel good about purchasing, I know that we are on the right track.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

We are a brand new home-based online business, so are only part-time. In 5 years I see us operating full-time with an office/warehouse space to accommodate for larger distribution.