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I was trying to think of a post to share with y’all, because I don’t want to say I’m sick of Christmas content because I love the time of year, buuuut I’ve also been doing it for a month already. SO I decided to share a post that has literally been in draft form since AUGUST. It’s also still kind of festive, because with all of the parties and such, there’s bound to be some stains.

I starting writing this post because I had a rust stain on my favorite white jeans. There’s a reason I never owned a pair until maybe 5 years ago. My mom never bought them, because you inevitably spill blackberry juice down them. No? Just me? I digress. Stains happen But stress (especially during one of the most stressful times of year) doesn’t have to). Here are some tips to getting some of the toughest stains out. Basically just repeat until you’re happy with the results! Regarding my white jeans fiasco, I waited a little long to treat the stain so it didn’t completely come out, but you can barely see it. Treat as quickly as possible. Good luck!

Blood - cold water soak then wash in soap and cold water

Butter - soap up and wash in hot water

Chocolate - soap up and wash in warm water

Gum - ice it until it comes out

Rust - soak in vinegar then wash in soap

Wine - salt the stain, let soak in white vinegar, then wash in soap and hot water

Okay so what “soap” are you using for the above? If you’re looking to go cruelty-free and nontoxic, switching your laundry detergent is one of the easiest and quickest ways to do so. PLUS it touches your body all. the. time., whether it is on your bedsheets or your favorite hoody. You are constantly in contact with your detergent, in addition to breathing in the “scent". Your detergent could be causing skin irritations which is visible, but can cause endocrine disruption, which isn’t always visible. This means it can cause adverse reactions such as developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune issues. No thank you!

As someone who exclusively bought Tide until a couple years ago, let’s just use it as an example. It has petrochemicals (synthetic detergent particles), phenols (BPA is the most well known phenol), benzene (aka a known carcinogen), phosphates (these get rid of your stains but can also cause things like kidney damage and osteoporosis.) Do you want me to keep going?! Also, remember that words like “natural” and “clean’ are not regulated, so anyone can use them. Tide also has a “free and gentle” line that gives off a vibe that it is more natural. It’s not. Guess what? EWG (which I reference all the time for skincare and makeup) rates it as an F, on an A-F scale. ** insert upside down smiley face **You can read more on EWG about laundry detergents here. SO here are my top picks for cruelty-free and nontoxic options. These are all rated A’s by EWG.

Seventh Generation. I’ve been using this for about a year and a half. I use both their detergent and their fabric softener. They have been great!

Branch Basics + Oxygen Boost. I actually just ordered the starter kit after hearing good things for years! I first heard about it from Lauren Scruggs Kennedy and finally took the plunge. Their theory behind their brand is that the soap can be used on everything from washing your fruit to cleaning your sheets. The oxygen boost is something they recommend for laundry. You receive it in the starter kit! Get $10 off your order here!

365 Everyday Value 2X Concentrated Laundry Detergent. This a great generic brand to buy, especially if you are a Whole Foodsie;)

Attitude Detergent. I haven’t used this one, but I’ve heard great things. They also have a “baby” option which is just their fragrance free version. The rest of their scents come from essential oils.

Remember! Clean doesn’t have a scent ;) If you are longer for a stronger scent, try putting drops of your favorite essential oils on some wool dryer balls! I actually mentioned this on my December favorites. My favorite EO to dry with is lavender.

Have any stain fighting tips or a favorite natural detergent? Let me know so I can try them out! Well…the detergent out. I’d rather not have to treat another stain if I can manage it!

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