Fels Naptha is a heavy-duty laundry bar soap that has been around since 1893. It’s known for its stain-removing properties and can be used in a variety of ways in your laundry routine. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about using Fels Naptha in your washing machine.
Using Fels Naptha in a washing machine is simple. For pre-treating stains, wet the soap bar and rub it directly onto the dampened stain before washing. As a laundry booster, grate a small portion of the Fels Naptha bar into the washer with your regular detergent. Alternatively, Fels Naptha can be used to make homemade laundry detergent by combining it with ingredients like washing soda and borax.
What is Fels Naptha?
Fels Naptha is an American laundry soap brand known for its strong cleaning power. It was initially developed to include naphtha, an ingredient effective for cleaning laundry, but naphtha was later removed due to its cancer risk. Today, Fels Naptha is commonly used for removing various types of stains, including oil, grease, and perspiration stains. It is also a popular ingredient in DIY laundry detergent recipes.
How to Use Fels Naptha in a Washing Machine
There are several ways you can use Fels Naptha in your washing machine:
Pre-Treating Stains
- Dampen the stained area of the clothing and lay it flat.
- Wet the Fels Naptha laundry bar and rub it directly onto the stained area.
- Allow the soap to sit for a minute before washing as usual.
As a Laundry Booster
- Grate 1/16th of the Fels Naptha bar into the washer along with your regular detergent.
- This will help remove treated stains and provide a deeper clean during the wash cycle.
In Homemade Laundry Detergent
You can also create your own laundry detergent using Fels Naptha. Here are two recipes you can try:
Powdered Detergent
- Combine one grated bar of Fels Naptha with a cup of washing soda and a cup of borax.
- Use 1-2 tablespoons of this homemade detergent per load.
Liquid Detergent
- Dissolve a bar of Fels Naptha in 5 cups of boiling water.
- Once the soap has dissolved, mix in a cup of washing soda and a cup of borax.
- Let the mixture cool before using. Use 1/2 cup of this homemade detergent per load.
Benefits of Using Fels Naptha in a Washing Machine
Fels Naptha is beneficial in a washing machine because it is effective at removing stains and odors from clothing. It can be used in both standard and high-efficiency (HE) washers. Using Fels Naptha in your washing machine can make your laundry routine simpler, more effective, and potentially save on laundry costs.
Risks and Downsides
While Fels Naptha is effective and affordable, there are potential risks and downsides to consider. These include the buildup of soap residue in your clothes and washing machine, the environmental impact of some of the ingredients, and reduced cleaning effectiveness compared to modern laundry detergents.
Conclusion
Fels Naptha is a versatile laundry soap that can be used in a variety of ways in your washing machine. Whether you’re looking to pre-treat stains, boost your regular detergent’s cleaning power, or make your own homemade laundry detergent, Fels Naptha is a useful tool to have in your laundry arsenal. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and downsides and to use it properly to get the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Fels Naptha on delicate fabrics?
Fels Naptha is a heavy-duty soap and it might be too harsh for delicate fabrics. It’s always best to test a small, hidden area first or to stick to using it on more durable fabrics like cotton and denim.
Is Fels Naptha safe for sensitive skin?
While many people use Fels Naptha without issue, some people with sensitive skin may find it irritating. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it may be best to use a gentler, fragrance-free laundry soap.
Can I use Fels Naptha in cold water washes?
Yes, Fels Naptha can be used in cold water washes. However, it might not dissolve as well, especially if you are using it as a laundry booster. Grating the soap finely and making sure to distribute it well can help.
Where can I buy Fels Naptha?
Fels Naptha can be found in many supermarkets and big-box stores, as well as online retailers like Amazon. It’s usually located in the laundry aisle.
Can I use Fels Naptha for other cleaning tasks?
Yes, Fels Naptha is a versatile cleaning agent and can be used for other tasks like spot cleaning carpets, removing soap scum, and even treating poison ivy rash. However, always test on a small area first to make sure it won’t discolor or damage the material.
