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Light soda vs. heavy soda

Back 13. 01. 2020

In addition to light soda, you can now also buy heavy soda in our e-shop

So what is the difference between these two ingredients?

Both raw materials represent

- sodium carbonate (calcined soda), a fine powder,

- with the same molecular weight (105.99),

- with the same solubility rate (max. 33.2% at 35.4 ̊C)

- produce the same pH (a 1% solution in pure distilled water produces a pH of 11,4)

It would seem that these are identical raw materials, but there is a difference. It lies in the density and particle size. Light soda is 0.77 grams per cubic centimeter and heavy soda is 1.06 grams per cubic centimeter, which in practice means that a kilo of light soda is larger in volume than a kilo of heavy soda. In addition, light soda is monohydrate (Na2CO3-H2O) and heavy soda is decahydrate (Na2CO3-10H2O).

Both variants are excellent raw materials used for cleaning purposes. Combined with citric acid, it helps with clogged waste. Soda itself helps soften water, is the basis for homemade dishwasher tablets, removes odors, dirt and disinfects. In the kitchen, it also helps with degreasing

Heavy soda has become a popular option just for its use in laundry detergents and stain removal (it dissolves easily in water and releases heat). As well as removing stains and cleaning the laundry, it also takes care of the washing machine itself and helps to some extent the hardness of the water against limescale build-up

Make your own homemade washing powder

Try a greener washing alternative and make your own washing powder at home. Not only is it easy and eco-friendly to make, but it won't put a strain on your wallet ;-)

To make the powder you will need:

400 g of powdered heavy soda

100 g laundry soap

Finely grate the soap and mix it with the soda. You can also add a few drops of essential oil according to your preference.

Store the powder in a glass container so it doesn't dry out.

Use 2-3 tablespoons of washing powder for one batch of 5-6 kg of laundry. If you want to increase the bleaching effects (recommended only when washing white linen), add one tablespoon of sodium percarbonate.

Source: https://www.nasastopa.sk/

TIP: the usage in the recipe is approximate and you can vary it depending on the hardness of the water. If you have harder water, you can increase the ratio of soda, but you need to monitor the effect of the soda, as it can cause your clothes to turn grey at high doses.

If you want proper strength for your white laundry, we have a recipe for that too:

2000 g of heavy soda

200 g grated laundry soap

1000 g sodium percarbonate

50 g TAED

10-15 drops of essential oil (optional ingredient)
Procedure: just mix the same ingredients and you're ready to wash ;-)

Source: https://kesjar.sk/domaci-prasok-na-biele-pradlo/