FAQs

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Using the Laundry Balls

How do the Laundry Balls work?

Activated molecules (ionised oxygen) are released during the wash. These molecules raise the pH level of the water, which softens both the water and the fabric. This allows the movement of water in the machine to penetrate the fabric and lift the soil out.

How do I use the Laundry Balls?

Place the laundry balls in the washing machine with your clothes, making sure there is room for the balls to move freely. Use one ball for loads up to 3kg, or two balls for loads over 3kg. There is no need to add washing powder or liquid. Full instructions are included in every kit.

Why is there a larger ball in the kit?

The larger ball was developed as an improvement on the smaller ones, which can occasionally split depending on the machine type. The large ball works exactly the same way and holds two packets of refill pellets - equivalent to two of the smaller balls. Do not overfill it with more than two packets.

Can I use the Laundry Balls in my front loader?

Yes, absolutely. Miracle Wash works in top loaders, front loaders, twin tubs, and for hand washing. Avoid water temperatures above 60 degrees - constant use of very hot water can cause the balls to split over time.

Can I hand wash?

Yes. Pre-soak the balls in a bucket of water for 10-20 minutes, then wash as normal.

Is it safe for woollens?

Yes - hand wash as you would normally.

Is it safe for delicates?

For delicates and expensive garments, hand washing is recommended - soak the clothing with the balls in a bucket of water. You can also put delicates in a laundry bag and machine wash, but for anything very precious or delicate, hand wash only. Washing machines, particularly top loaders, can be rough on fine fabrics.

Can I wash nappies and baby clothes?

Yes, Miracle Wash is perfectly safe for baby clothes and sensitive baby skin. Nappies can be soaked overnight with the balls, or in the Stain Remover solution if heavily soiled. The mineral pellets soften the fabric and make the water more alkaline - bacteria doesn't thrive in alkaline conditions.

Are the balls fragrant?

The pellets have a light lemon fragrance that gives clothes a clean, freshly-washed smell without being heavily scented. When you take clothes off the line, they smell clean rather than perfumed. If you have a fragrance sensitivity, please check with us about fragrance-free options.

Can I use fabric softener?

You don't need to - the minerals naturally raise the pH of the water which softens fabrics without any additives. Most fabric softeners contain chemicals that leave residue on fabric and can irritate skin.

If you'd like to add fragrance, a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the wash works well and has natural antibacterial properties. For a natural fabric softener, add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle.

Rinse Cycle & Water

Do I need to use the rinse cycle?

No. Because there's no detergent, there's nothing to rinse out. The pellets don't leave any residue on your clothes. If your machine allows it, turning the rinse cycle off saves water and electricity on every wash.

What if I can't turn off my rinse cycle?

That's fine - it won't cause any problems. Turning it off just saves water and electricity, but it's not necessary.

Can I re-use the grey water on my garden?

Yes. Miracle Wash does not pollute waterways and contains no harsh chemicals, so the grey water is safe to use on your garden and plants.

Are they safe for my septic system?

Yes. Miracle Wash doesn't contain toxic chemicals, and the alkaline pH actually helps reduce bacteria. The minerals have natural antibacterial properties without added antibacterial agents.

Stains & Cleaning Results

How do I get stains out?

Miracle Wash doesn't contain the harsh chemicals that strip grease and ground-in dirt, so for stains you need to use the included Phosphate Free Stain Remover. There are three ways to use it:

  • Apply paste directly to the stain before washing
  • Mix 10cm of paste with 400-500ml of water in a spray bottle, shake and leave overnight, then spray on stains as a pre-treatment
  • Soak clothes in a bucket with 10cm of paste mixed in overnight for tough stains

Some stubborn stains may need a repeat treatment.

How do I keep my whites white?

Miracle Wash doesn't contain bleach or whitening agents, so whites may gradually look a little dull without some extra care. A few tips:

  • Always separate whites from colours - dye from coloured fabrics can transfer into whites over time
  • Soak whites in a bucket with half a cup of bicarb soda, wring out and hang in the sun without rinsing - the bicarb and sunlight naturally whiten fabric
  • Hang whites in direct sunlight where possible - dryers and shaded lines will grey whites over time
  • Add a quarter cup of bicarb soda to the wash as a regular boost
How do I get a cleaner wash on heavily soiled loads?

A few things help with heavily soiled loads:

  • Use warm water rather than cold for very dirty clothes
  • Make sure the balls are in the water for at least 20-30 minutes - it takes 15-20 minutes for the minerals to change the pH of the water and open the fabric fibres. For short cycles, fill the machine and soak with the balls before starting the wash
  • For very dirty loads, soak overnight in the machine with the balls
  • Use two balls for loads over 3kg
  • Check the pellets - if they're below the halfway mark, it may be time to refill
  • Don't overload the machine - the balls need room to move

Ingredients & Safety

What are the ingredients?

The pellets contain natural mineral-based components: sodium silicate, sodium carbonate, and a mild biodegradable surfactant. The formula is readily biodegradable, environmentally safe, and free from toxic chemicals.

Miracle Wash does not contain SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate), petrochemicals, harsh detergents, bleach, brighteners, enzymes, artificial fragrances, or animal-derived ingredients.

I have allergies and eczema - can I use it?

Yes. Miracle Wash is hypo-allergenic and safe for sensitive skin. It has been approved by Action Against Allergies (UK). Dana developed the product specifically for her children's eczema and allergies - eliminating SLS and harsh chemicals from the wash was the primary goal.

Are they biodegradable?

Yes, absolutely. The pellets and their ingredients are fully biodegradable and environmentally safe.

Are they made in Australia?

The pellets are manufactured overseas - Australian manufacturing costs make it impossible to produce them locally at an affordable price. However, Miracle Wash is an Australian-owned business (EnviroCare Holdings Pty Ltd) that supports local small businesses and employs local community members.

Refilling & Maintenance

How long will the pellets last?

It depends on family size, wash frequency, and water quality. As a guide:

  • 1 person: 18+ months
  • 2 people: 12 months
  • 3 people: 8 months
  • 4 people: 6 months
  • 5+ people: 4-5 months

Cold water washes make the pellets last longer than warm water. The plastic balls themselves last for years.

How do I know when to refill?

Two signs: washing quality starts to drop, or the pellets inside are below the halfway mark. The manufacturer recommends refilling every 6 months as a general guide. Spent pellets are environmentally safe and can go in the bin.

How do I get the cap off to refill the balls?

The cap can be stiff on a new ball. Drop the ball in warm water for a minute, remove it, then wrap in a towel and gently squeeze - this pops one side of the cap up enough to get a fingernail under it. For the larger newer-style ball, use a blunt knife to unscrew it.

How do I get the cap back on?

Drop the cap in hot water for about 30 seconds to soften the plastic, then use a push and twist motion to seat it back in. Much easier when the plastic is warm.

How do I clean my washing machine?

Over time, the laundry balls draw out built-up residue from previous detergent use inside the machine drum. This is a good thing, but it means the machine needs occasional cleaning - otherwise that residue can end up on clothes as grey marks.

Every 6 months (when you change your refills), run an empty hot wash cycle with half a cup of bicarb soda and half a cup of white vinegar. Also clean the seals and filters, and pour bicarb and vinegar down the detergent and fabric softener dispensers to clean the pipes.

If you notice grey marks appearing on clothes, that's a sign the machine needs a clean.

Still have a question? Contact us and we'll help you out.