Commercial hand washes that contain antibacterial agents are toxic. Triclosan is one of those agents. According to the Environmental Working Group, triclosan is linked to liver and inhalation toxicity, and low levels may disrupt thyroid function. Wastewater treatment does not remove all of the chemical, which means it ends up in our lakes, rivers and water sources. That’s especially unfortunate since triclosan is very toxic to aquatic life. Triclosan has been in the news recently and big Australian manufacturers will be removing it from their antibacterial hand washes by the end of 2017.
Here’s a random fact for you: shopping receipts are covered in BPA, and when you use hand sanitisers (many containing triclosan), then handle receipts, you increase your body’s ability to absorb this toxic chemical. Crazy!
This foaming hand wash contains a handful of ingredients. It is deliciously foamy and so simple to make. So go on, JUST DO IT!!
Foaming Hand Wash
Makes: 200 g Prep time: < 5 min.
Ingredients
- 65 g liquid castile soap
- 15-20 drops of essential oils
- 135 g water (see recipe notes)
My Choice of Essential Oils
My favourite essential oils in this recipe are lemon, tea tree and clove, but don’t be limited by my suggestions. Use oils that fit your budget, or those that you already have in your collection. Read here for more information on essential oils.
Special Container Required
Soap bottle (with foam dispenser)
Method
1. Add castile soap and essential oils into soap bottle and swirl to combine.
2. Add water and shake until combined.
To Use
Massage 1-2 pumps of foam over hands. Rinse with warm water.
Recipe Notes
Water should be distilled, purified or pre-boiled and cooled to extend shelf life.
2 Comments
This recipe is so simple and last for ages. We have never bought hand wash again and plus the kids love the foaming part making washing hands fun
This is such a versatile recipe. We probably make this recipe the most. Thanks so much for sharing