Ever wondered what happens to all the after-wash water or 'grey water' that we drain from our washing machines?
Well, the simple answer is that they flow into the sewage system and eventually land up in our rivers, lakes and seas. However, the chemical-rich water that flows into our water systems has far-reaching effects on aquatic lives. Most detergents contain a high percentage of phosphates that serve as nutrients for algae. Resulting in overpopulation of algae known as 'algal bloom' in large stretches that suffocate the other aquatic animals by cutting off the oxygen supply.
Then, of course, the twin chemicals, SLS- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate present in detergents, have been a matter of much concern.
Don't let the foam fool you; SLS have good foaming properties, but at whose expense?
It is scientifically proven that the pesticidal and herbicidal properties of SLS make them dangerous for fishes. What is more concerning is the potential for bio-accumulation, i.e., the chemicals that remain accumulated within the fishes body. This subsequently is transferred to us humans who consume these fishes
Other common Dioxanes, a common chemical in detergents, have shown to increase water toxicity mainly. It breaks down very slowly and migrates quickly within an aquifer, thus affecting the water quality significantly.
On the other hand, BubbleNut Wash contains extracts of soapnuts as the main foaming and cleaning agent. Known as 'saponins', these extracts have excellent cleaning properties and have been used traditionally in many societies. After doing your laundry with Bubble Nut Wash, the wastewater does not contain any artificial chemicals and is safe to use for watering plants in your garden. When released into rivers and lakes, after-wash wastewater does not trouble the aquatic lives. Neither is there phosphates that would encourage algal bloom, nor are there SLS that would turn the water toxic. In short, there is hardly a detergent that nature will love you more for using!