HEAL.thing101

So much is occurring in the world.

The sky is being polluted.

The water,contaminated.

The "food" products, lacking nutrients.

Some things we can't control BUT what we allow in our home...managable.

You wash your dishes. But what chemicals are being used to get that squeaky "clean" experience? Do you know? And then you place your beverages and food on these squeaky "clean " dishes introducing more to your body than you could ever imagine. Chemical soup anyone?

I've explored toxic-free dish detergents and I will admit that I like them. But, the time came for me to shift once again. I was already making our laundry detergent so why not make our own dishwasher pods!

Making your own dishwasher pods offers health benefits primarily by avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and potential residues found in some commercial detergents.

Here's some key reasons why you should think about it too:

•Reduced Chemical Exposure: Commercial pods may contain ingredients like isothiazolinone-based antimicrobial agents (such as methylisothiazolinone or benzisothiazolinone say that 3x fast), which have been linked to neurotoxicity and lung, skin, and eye irritation.

•Minimized Risk of Allergic Reactions/Sensitivities: By using simple, natural ingredients (like baking soda, citric acid, and washing soda), you can create a hypoallergenic option, which is beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin, allergies, or respiratory issues.

•No Harmful Residues on Dishes: Homemade pods are designed to rinse clean, avoiding chemical films that might otherwise linger on plates, cups, and utensils and potentially be ingested.

•Control Over Ingredients: You have complete control over what goes into your pods, allowing you to specifically exclude any ingredients you are concerned about or have known sensitivities to. #nochemicalsoup

•Avoidance of Synthetic Fragrances and Dyes: Many commercial products use artificial fragrances and dyes, which can trigger asthma or allergies in some people. Homemade pods use natural options like lemon essential oil for scent, or can be made unscented.

•Potential Gut Health Protection: Some studies have raised concerns that certain components in commercial detergents and rinse aids might damage the gut lining, potentially leading to inflammation; using gentler, non-toxic alternatives may help mitigate this risk.

I hear you. But Trina, where should I start?

Google and YOUTUBE can be your DIY BFF but here's one that I've used and really liked it🥰

No Chemical Soup In My Bowl Dishwasher Pods

Ingredients:

👉🏾1 cup Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate; a strong cleaner and grease cutter)

👉🏾1 cup Borax (Sodium Tetraborate; cleans, deodorizes, and acts as a water softener)

👉🏾1 cup Lemon Juice (¼ fresh ¾ bottled.Helps fight spots and hard water stains)

👉🏾¾ cup Salt (Boosts cleaning efficiency)

👉🏾20-40 drops of Essential Oil (Optional, for natural fragrance...I used Eucalyptus and Lemon)

👉🏾Silicone ice cube tray or parchment paper

👉🏾Large mixing bowl and spoon

Instructions:

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the washing soda, borax, and salt. Break down any lumps.Pour the lemon juice (yes, you can use the bottled stuff) slowly. It will fizz up but stop in a moment. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. The mix should be moist yet firm enough to stay together if pressed.

2. Add the essential oil drops to the blended mix and stir again. Allow to sit 3-5 minutes to settle.

3. Pack the ice tray or scoop onto parchment paper: Immediately and firmly press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each compartment of your ice tray. Packing it tightly helps the pod hold its shape after drying. Or scoop 1 tablespoon and form into tablets for drying.

4. Dry and harden: Leave the tablets in a warm, dry place for at 24-48 hours (or until completely hard).

5. Store: Once completely dry, pop the pods out of the molds and store them in an airtight container.

How to use them? Easy! Replace the commercial ones with the ones you've made. And if you want to level up "the clean" add white vinegar to the rinse aid dispenser.

If you try it, let me know!