The CleanSuds Blog
Where education and truthful facts are easy to come by.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher with MamaSuds Products
Keep your dishwasher sparkling clean and running efficiently with MamaSuds' eco-friendly, family-safe products! Our step-by-step guide shows you how to tackle grime, odors, and build-up using Automatic Dishwasher Powder, Toilet Bombs, and All-Purpose Cleaner Spray. Safe for your home and gentle on the planet, these natural solutions make cleaning simple and effective. Save time, protect your appliances, and enjoy a fresh, spotless dishwasher!
How to Clean Your Dishwasher with MamaSuds Toilet Bombs: A Surprising Solution
If you've ever wondered about alternative ways to keep your dishwasher sparkling clean, you're in for a treat. MamaSuds Toilet Bombs, while not traditionally formulated for dishwashers, can effectively clean your appliance using the natural power of its ingredients. Here's a simple guide to refreshing your dishwasher with these eco-friendly bombs.
Step 1: Empty the Dishwasher
Before you begin the cleaning process, make sure your dishwasher is completely empty. This ensures that the toilet bomb's cleaning power is focused on the machine itself rather than on any dishes that may be inside.
Step 2: Place a Toilet Bomb
Take one MamaSuds Toilet Bomb and place it at the bottom of your dishwasher. The bomb's essential oils and natural cleaning agents will work their magic as soon as it dissolves during the cycle.
Step 3: Run a Cycle
Set your dishwasher to run on a hot water cycle. The heat will help dissolve the toilet bomb, enabling its ingredients to thoroughly clean the interior surfaces of your dishwasher.
Step 4: Wipe Down
Once the cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and wipe down the interior walls and door with a clean cloth. This step helps to remove any residue and ensures that your dishwasher is left spotless.
Step 5: Rinse (Optional)
For an extra layer of cleanliness, you can run an additional short rinse cycle. This step is optional but recommended if you want to make sure all cleaning agents have been completely washed away.
Repurpose MamaSuds Toilet Bombs to maintain a fresh and efficient dishwasher. It’s an unexpected yet effective solution, combining green cleaning methods with convenience.
Surprising Uses of Non-Toxic Soap Beyond Personal Hygiene
• It can serve as a natural and eco-friendly pest deterrent in gardening.
• You can make your own fruit and vegetable wash with non-toxic soap.
• Non-toxic soap is a versatile ingredient in DIY cleaning solutions for household surfaces.
• It can also be used as a jewelry cleaner, stain remover, and pet shampoo.
• By incorporating non-toxic soap into daily life, you can enjoy a cleaner and healthier environment.
MamaSuds’ Ultimate Eco-Friendly Holiday Gift Guide
The holiday season is here, and what better way to show your loved ones you care than by giving them gifts that keep their homes and families clean and green? Whether they're new to natural products or eco-enthusiasts, these handpicked MamaSuds' gifts are perfect for anyone on your list who values quality, sustainability, and a healthier home. Here's our go-to gift guide to help you spread the joy of clean living this season!
1. The Dishwashing Trio
What’s Inside: Solid Dish Soap, Bamboo Pot Brush, and Ridged Wooden Soap Dish
Perfect for the eco-conscious kitchen lover, this Dishwashing Trio combines natural true cleaning power with beautiful, sustainable design. Our solid dish soap tackles grease without harsh chemicals, the bamboo pot brush is a powerhouse scrubber, and the ridged wooden soap dish keeps the solid soap dry for longer-lasting use. This trio brings joy to daily dishwashing with sustainable essentials that elevate any kitchen. And for a limited time, it comes with a natural burlap gift bag perfect for giving.
Perfect for: Hosts, foodies, and anyone who loves a stylish kitchen with zero waste.
2. Dryer Balls
MamaSuds’ Upcycled Dryer Balls are a staple for those who want soft, fresh laundry without synthetic dryer sheets. These handmade wonders reduce drying time, save energy, and are reusable for years—making laundry day a breeze and helping reduce waste. For a limited time, when you buy 4 balls, you automatically get a natural burlap gift bag, making giving even easier!
Perfect for: Anyone looking to green their laundry routine and save on energy costs.
3. Combos We Love
Dryer Balls + Laundry Soap Concentrate
Make this duo your go-to gift for anyone who’s serious about eco-friendly laundry. Pairing our Upcycled Dryer Balls with the Laundry Soap Concentrate, this set delivers a powerful clean without the toxins. MamaSuds’ Laundry Soap Concentrate uses simple, non-toxic ingredients that are gentle on skin and effective on clothes. A 16oz pouch makes a half gallon of our customer's favorite laundry soap. Combined with dryer balls, laundry becomes efficient, effective, and kind to the planet.
Perfect for: Families, busy parents, and friends looking to clean up their laundry routines.
No. 12 Bar Soap + Ridged Wooden Soap Dish
Give the gift of self-care with our No. 12 Unscented Bar Soap, crafted to be gentle on skin, free from harmful chemicals, and a soothing experience to use. Paired with our sustainable ridged wooden soap dish, this combo helps the soap last longer while looking beautiful in any bathroom or kitchen.
Perfect for: Spa lovers, skincare enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a natural, sustainable twist on daily self-care.
All-Purpose Cleaner + Concentrate
Know someone who takes pride in a sparkling clean home? This pairing has you covered! Our All-Purpose Cleaner is ready to tackle messes naturally, while the All-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate makes it easy to refill and reuse (8 x 16oz refills in one bottle!). Perfect for those who want an effective clean without the chemicals, this pair is sure to become a staple in their cleaning routine.
Perfect for: The clean freaks, the new parents, and those who like a fresh, toxin-free home.
Oxygen Powder + Bamboo Pot Brush
For the deep-cleaning aficionados, our Oxygen Powder and Bamboo Pot Brush duo is a powerhouse for tackling tough stains, grime, and anything in between. This natural combo is versatile enough to handle everything from kitchen stains to bathroom tub, making it a unique, practical gift that shows you truly care about the details.
Perfect for: Cleaners, DIYers, and anyone who loves a spotless home.
Wrap It Up Sustainably
Complete these gifts with an eco-friendly touch by wrapping them in recyclable paper, reusable cloth bags, a reusable shopping tote, or grab a natural burlap tote available on our website for a limited time. Every small step counts in creating a more sustainable holiday season!
Give the gift of clean this holiday season with MamaSuds. Whether you're introducing someone to greener products or helping them level up their eco-game, these gifts are thoughtful, practical, and planet-friendly. Happy gifting from MamaSuds!
How to Disinfect a Cutting Board Without Using Bleach
Introduction: Why Ditch the Bleach?
For many of us, cutting boards are an essential kitchen tool, used to prepare everything from fresh veggies to raw meat. But keeping them sanitized and safe for food prep can be a challenge, especially if you're trying to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach. Traditional disinfectants may get the job done, but they often leave behind toxic residues that are harmful to your health, the environment, and your food. Fortunately, you don’t need bleach to keep your cutting board clean—eco-conscious, non-toxic solutions can deliver the same results without the harsh side effects.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to effectively disinfect a cutting board with sustainable, eco-friendly solutions. Whether it’s wood, plastic, or bamboo, we’ve got practical, easy-to-follow steps to help you clean your board without compromising safety or the planet.
The Risks of Using Bleach in Your Kitchen
Though bleach is known for its disinfecting power, it’s not without its risks. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), bleach releases toxic fumes that can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. More concerningly, residual bleach on kitchen surfaces can linger and potentially contaminate food, posing health risks to your family.
If you're striving to reduce toxins in your home, there's good news—there are non-toxic, sustainable alternatives that offer powerful cleaning without sacrificing your health or the environment. And you likely already have some of them in your home!
Tools and Ingredients for Non-Toxic Cutting Board Cleaning
- MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner – a non-toxic, plant-based formula that effectively breaks down grease, grime, and surface bacteria.
- MamaSuds Extra Strength Oxygen Powder – a natural stain remover and deodorizer that tackles tough bacteria.
- White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide – excellent natural disinfectants.
- Lemon – a natural antibacterial agent with a fresh scent.
- Baking soda – gentle on surfaces and effective at removing stains.
- A scrub brush or sponge.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean and Disinfect Cutting Boards
Step 1: Rinse Off Residue Immediately After Use
Begin by rinsing the cutting board with hot water right after use. This prevents bacteria from settling into the board, especially after cutting raw meat or seafood. A quick rinse makes the following steps more effective.
Step 2: Scrub with MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner
Spray MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner generously over the surface of the cutting board. This non-toxic formula cuts through grease and food residue without leaving harmful chemicals behind. Use a scrub brush or sponge to thoroughly clean both sides of the board.
Pro tip: Use a different cutting board for meat and veggies to avoid cross-contamination.
Step 3: Deodorize and Sanitize with MamaSuds Extra Strength Oxygen Powder
Mix a tablespoon of MamaSuds Extra Strength Oxygen Powder with warm water to create a powerful cleaning paste. Apply it to any stained or smelly areas of the cutting board. Let the paste sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the oxygenated formula to lift stains and neutralize odors naturally.
Step 4: Disinfect with Vinegar or Hydrogen Peroxide
Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are both effective natural disinfectants. Spray your cutting board with one of these options and let it air-dry. If you prefer to skip vinegar's strong scent, hydrogen peroxide offers the same antibacterial benefits without the lingering odor.
Important: Avoid letting vinegar or hydrogen peroxide sit on wooden boards for too long, as it can degrade the wood over time.
Step 5: Use Lemon for a Fresh Finish
For an extra antibacterial boost (and a fresh scent), rub half a lemon over the surface of the board. This simple step adds another layer of cleaning and leaves your board smelling citrusy-fresh. Lemon juice also helps remove lingering stains.
Step 6: Let the Board Dry Completely
Always allow your cutting board to air-dry thoroughly. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so propping the board upright to ensure both sides dry is essential. For wooden boards, consider applying a light coat of food-grade oil to prevent cracks and keep the wood hydrated.
The Importance of Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices
Cleaning without harsh chemicals isn’t just better for your health—it’s better for the environment, too. According to the American Lung Association, many conventional cleaning products, including bleach, release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor air pollution. Choosing non-toxic alternatives like MamaSuds ensures your home stays safe while minimizing your carbon footprint.
Additionally, every small eco-friendly swap adds up. By opting for plant-based products, like MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner, you’re making a sustainable choice that supports a healthier planet—and teaching your kids the importance of conscious consumption.
Why Choose MamaSuds for a Cleaner, Greener Home?
When it comes to green home solutions, MamaSuds products are designed to meet the highest standards. They are free from sulfates, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals, ensuring your family stays safe. Whether it’s cutting boards, countertops, or laundry, MamaSuds makes it easy to maintain a toxin-free home.
Clean Smarter, Not Harder
Ready to ditch the bleach and embrace non-toxic cleaning? Shop MamaSuds All-Purpose Cleaner and Extra Strength Oxygen Powder today and discover the power of sustainable cleaning solutions. Use these products not only on your cutting boards but also throughout your home to maintain a clean, healthy, and eco-friendly space.
Take the first step toward a safer home with MamaSuds—because what you use to clean matters.
Where does Washing Soda come from?
At MamaSuds, ingredients are important to us. If you’ve been a customer for any amount of time, you know that we take ingredients very seriously.
What is Washing Soda?
Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate, is a versatile cleaning agent used in laundry detergents, glass cleaners, and even some food processing applications (like ice cream). It's effective at lifting stains, softening water, and cutting through grease, making it a powerful ally in any eco-conscious home.
Natural vs Synthetic Origins
Washing soda can be derived from natural or synthetic sources.
Natural Sources
Naturally sourced washing soda is typically extracted from trona ore, a mineral rich in sodium carbonate. This ore is mined and then processed to produce a variety of sodium compounds, including washing soda. A significant portion of the world's trona comes from the Green River Basin in Wyoming, USA, where extensive deposits lie.
- Eco-Benefits: Extracting washing soda from natural trona mines generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic production. The processing of trona is energy-efficient, and the mining operations often adhere to strict environmental regulations.
Synthetic Production
Synthetic washing soda is created through an industrial process involving salt (sodium chloride) and limestone (calcium carbonate). This process, known as the Solvay process, uses ammonia and carbon dioxide to synthesize sodium carbonate.
- Eco-Considerations: The Solvay process is energy-intensive and can produce a significant amount of waste, such as calcium chloride, which must be managed carefully to avoid environmental pollution. However, advancements in technology continue to make this method more efficient.
Carbon Footprint Considerations
The carbon footprint of washing soda largely depends on its source. Naturally mined washing soda tends to have a smaller carbon footprint due to less energy-consuming extraction and processing techniques. In contrast, synthetic production, while more resource-intensive, offers greater control over purity and contamination which might be a consideration for certain applications.
The Washing Soda plant in Green River, Wyoming.
MamaSuds uses Washing Soda in our Laundry Soap and Extra Strength Oxygen Powder.
What's with these Upcycled Dryer Balls?
Crafted from 100% upcycled yarn and fabric, these dryer balls embody eco-friendliness at its finest. By repurposing materials, they not only reduce waste but also promote a circular economy, making them a perfect choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Using dryer balls is an easy way to lessen your environmental footprint while still enjoying the benefits of modern conveniences. They offer a natural alternative to chemical-laden dryer sheets, ensuring your laundry routine is gentle on both your clothes and the planet.
Beyond their eco-friendly composition, dryer balls are champions of efficiency. By naturally separating clothes and allowing hot air to circulate more freely, they can reduce drying time by up to 25%. This not only saves energy, making your home more efficient, but also shortens laundry day, giving you more time for the things you love. Their generous size prevents them from getting lost in sleeves or small items, and they minimize tangling, ensuring your clothes come out soft and wrinkle-free. Whether you're drying a load of heavy towels or delicate garments, these dryer balls are designed to handle it all with ease.
For those sensitive to fragrances, upcycled dryer balls are a dream come true. Completely unscented, they offer a fresh, natural way to care for your clothes without the worry of irritating chemicals or perfumes. This makes them particularly appealing for households with young children, individuals with allergies, or anyone who prefers a fragrance-free laundry experience. Handmade with care, each dryer ball is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication to sustainability, offering a simple yet effective solution for greener living.
As you consider making the switch to a more sustainable laundry routine, let MamaSuds Upcycled Dryer Balls be your go-to solution. Embrace the eco-friendly advantages and efficiency these handmade wonders bring to your home. By choosing MamaSuds, you're not just enhancing your laundry experience; you're actively contributing to a healthier planet. Ready to see the difference for yourself? Dive into the world of MamaSuds and discover how easy it is to make a positive impact—one load of laundry at a time. Check out our Upcycled Dryer Balls today and start bouncing towards a greener tomorrow!
Healthy Eating on a Budget: Nutritious Meal Ideas That Won't Break the Bank
• Meal planning helps avoid impulse buys and maximizes savings by utilizing similar ingredients for different dishes.
• Shopping smart involves making a list, checking for sales and coupons, and considering store brands and bulk options.
• Opting for seasonal produce and frozen fruits and veggies can save money while still providing essential nutrients.
• Cooking at home is generally cheaper than dining out, allowing for more control over ingredients to maintain a healthy diet. Preparing large batches and freezing leftovers can also save time and money.
• Embracing plant-based meals, even just one meatless day a week, can significantly cut costs on groceries.
• Try these budget-friendly recipes: Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice and Lentil Soup. Both are easy to make, full of nutrients, and won't break the bank.
Balancing Work and Wellness: Strategies for a Healthy Work-Life Harmony
• Prioritize self-care activities each day.
• Incorporate physical activity into your routine.
• Manage time effectively by prioritizing tasks and using tools like planners or apps.
• Practice mindfulness to stay grounded and reduce stress.
• Take regular breaks during the workday to prevent burnout and maintain productivity.
• Nurture relationships with loved ones for social support and stress relief.