Marilyn, do you remember what model number or name your Speed Queen is?
Thanks!

Congratulations, Marilyn! If you want to test it out, I have a bunch of dirty laundry that I could send your way....

Happy that you're happy with your new washer, Marilyn! Keep us posted on how you like it a few months from now after you've done some experimenting--we all have washers that have to go at some point...

Thanks ! Rita !

Happy dancing for your Marilyn.

The new washer...Speed Queen....is in and is just Perfect !! Hot water ,soak over nite,open the door whenever
you want ...infinite water control..big tub , real rinse.... what an education this has been ! Hope it wears like iron and
is the last one I ever have to buy. The dealer I bought the other one from is buying it back with a hit to my wallet, of course !
I'm still happy ! Now to make some laundry soap !

This is what I use:



listed ingredient: Sodium Carbonate

Washing soda is also known as soda crystals - no idea what it's commonly called in the US or Ireland but it's used for cleaning drains, washing down paintwork etc.

Bicarbonate of Soda = Sodium Bicarbonate
Washing soda = Sodium Carbonate Dechydrate (do not use in contact with aluminium)
I would have to ask my mum (she was/is a chemist) if it is possible to convert one to the other, but I have my doubts

Cathy, thanks for the recipe. I am going to give it a try as soon as I get some washing soda. I believe that baking soda can be turned into washing soda by putting it in the oven but I don't know how long to leave it in the oven so I will just buy some next time I am at the supermarket.

Here is the recipe for liquid laundry detergent:
3 pints of water
1/3 bar of soap, grated (Fel Naptha or mild soap. I use homemade lye soap. Believe it or not, it is mild)
1/2 cup of Washing Soda
1/2 cup of Borax
2 gallon bucket to mix in
1 quart of hot water

Mix soap in saucepan with 3 pints of hot water and heat on low until dissolved. Stir in the washing soda and Borax. Stir until thickened and then remove from heat. Add 1 quart hot water to 2 gallon bucket. Add soap mixture and mix well. Fill bucket with additional hot water and mix well. Set aside for 24 hrs. or until mixture thickens. Use 1/2 cup per load.

I use a large stock pot to do the whole process. The next day it is a soft gel consistency. I stir well and then pour into empty detergent jugs. Shake before using. This is a low sudsing soap, so should be ok for the high effeciency washers.

Now if I could just get my DH to leave it open.

I've always left the lid of my washing machine open after using it just because my Mom always did. Now I know why I do that