In a world where eco-conscious cleaning solutions are increasingly sought after, Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds all purpose cleaner stands as a shining example of versatility and sustainability. This powerful, multi-cleaner has garnered a dedicated following for its ability to tackle an impressive array of household cleaning tasks. It has earned quite the reputation as an eco-friendly multi-tool for cleaning enthusiasts world-wide. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of Sal Suds and delve into a comprehensive guide on how to harness its cleaning prowess effectively throughout your home and beyond. Discover the numerous ways in which this concentrated cleaner can transform your cleaning routine into a greener, more efficient, more cost-effective, and eco-conscious endeavor.
*Please note that this article is not a paid ad in any way…I just love it so much (because it has simplified my life in many ways for 15+ years) that I had to share it will all of my readers.*
What is Sal Suds?
Sal Suds biodegradable cleaner is a highly versatile and eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner.
It is a concentrated, biodegradable liquid soap that is specially formulated for a wide range of cleaning applications.
This powerful cleaner is made with plant-based ingredients & contains no synthetic additives or preservatives.
Its primary function is to cut through grease and grime, making it exceptionally effective for various household cleaning tasks.
Its concentrated formula means that you only need to use a small amount diluted with water for most cleaning jobs, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly cleaning solution.
**Warning: Be prepared to clear up a ton of space under your kitchen or utility sink when you throw away all your other cleaning products. Plus, it’s good to have as few harsh chemicals in the home as possible. :)**
How I discovered it
As a busy mom of four, I am all about simplifying my life as much as possible, which is what fueled my search for a better cleaning product.
I was in love the day that I found Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner.
It’s pretty versatile (but gets expensive if you use it very often) and I didn’t think that I’d ever find something that I liked even more to clean with.
Boy was I wrong!
I had been searching for terms on the internet like “what is the best all purpose/multi purpose cleaner”…and couldn’t find anything that I liked very much…
After lots of searching around I happened to stumble across Sal Suds when I was cruising one of my favorite blogs, and I can tell you that I am never going back to any other cleaner after using it.
The best part is that it costs a fraction of my old favorite to use, so that’s a big selling point right there…for me anyway.
What can I clean with it?
Some of the most common uses for Sal Suds include:
- Dishwashing: You can use Sal Suds as a dishwashing liquid. It effectively cuts through grease and leaves dishes clean. If you don’t want to do that you can still use some diluted in a spray bottle, spray your dishes, and it is great at pre-treating those nasty dishes (you know what I’m talking about if you have teenagers).
- Laundry: Sal Suds can be used as a laundry detergent for both hand washing and in washing machines. It works well for regular laundry as well as for stubborn stains.
- General Cleaning: It’s a powerful cleaner for various surfaces in your home, including countertops, floors, for the kids toys, and appliances. Dilute it in water and use it as a spray cleaner or in a bucket. I use it in my most popular cleaning tip, The Painless Way To Wash Walls…it’s an excellent wall-cleaning solution. It will even remove crayon with minimal elbow grease.
- Windows and Glass: Sal Suds can be diluted and used to clean windows and glass surfaces. It leaves them streak-free.
- Bathroom Cleaning: Use it to clean sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets. It’s effective at removing soap scum and grime.
- Car Washing: Dilute Sal Suds in a bucket of water and use it to wash your car. It can help remove dirt and grime from the exterior. I use it diluted in a spray bottle, spray it into a rag, and wipe down the interior too. It will even get out any stains on those car seats.
- Pet Cleaning: Sal Suds can be used to clean pet crates, toys, and other surfaces that your pets come into contact with.
- Stain Removal: You can use Sal Suds to pre-treat stains on clothing or fabric. Apply a small amount directly to the stain, allow it to soak a bit, and wash as usual.
- Outdoor Cleaning: It can be used to clean outdoor furniture, decks, and even vinyl siding.
- Fruit and Vegetable Wash: You can use a diluted solution of Sal Suds to wash fruits and vegetables to remove pesticides and residues.
- To clean couches and carpet stains: I spray it directly on, wait about fifteen to 30 seconds, scrub with a wet rag or wet scrub brush. Then wipe it clean with a fresh towel. I use it as a detergent in my carpet shampooer for both carpet and upholstery…remember it is crazy concentrated though, so make sure to read the instructions on how to use it to shampoo carpets, found here, or it will be a sudsy mess. My sister said that she has had success by putting some (undiluted) on a permanent marker stain that was on the carpet, left it to soak for a bit, added water and scrubbed at it (used a fresh towel to wipe it up) and the marker was gone.
- Electronics: I spray a bit into a rag and wipe down electronics (rag should be damp and not dripping for this).
- Other Kitchen Use: I use it in the fridge, both inside and outside my George Foreman Grill/other small kitchen appliances(when it’s cold and unplugged so I don’t hurt myself). I like to spritz a bit on the exterior of my cupboards, wait a few seconds and then wipe it off…best thing I’ve found to clean the cupboards because it cuts grease.
That’s just the beginning of the many many ways you can use it, if you would like to see a full list of what else it can clean, go here.
However, it just takes using it for a month or two and you will keep finding new things that it does a great job at cleaning.
*If in doubt whether or not you should use it on a particular surface, always do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to make sure that nothing gets damaged.
How much should you use?
Lisa Bronner, Dr. Bronner’s granddaughter, has a fantastically helpful printable cheat sheet available on her website that tells you the appropriate amounts of Sal Suds to use in order to get the best outcomes for cleaning with it.
Lisa’s website also goes into great detail on how much to use when cleaning almost anything that you can think of, and you can find what she has to say about it here.
I feel like Lisa covers the subject far better than I ever could, so that is why I’m sending you directly to her instead of rehashing it here.
Where to buy it and how to save money on it
*Please note that when you first go to purchase this product, you’re probably initially going to think it’s super expensive…but keep in mind that this stuff is super ultra concentrated, so it is going to last you a good LONG while unless you are using way too much of it…at least in my opinion and experience after many years of use.*
I strongly suggest that the first time you use Sal Suds, you buy either a 16 or a 32 oz Bottle to start out with to see if you even like it (I don’t want you wasting your money and cursing me if you decide you’re not a fan…lol).
Then, if you do like it, you’ll have the smaller container to refill and keep handy by the kitchen sink when you start buying it by the gallon to save money on it.
Yes, purchasing it a gallon at a time is typically the best way to save money on it, but always be mindful that prices fluctuate and always check the price per ounce to make sure that you’re getting the best deal possible.
If you’re possibly too impatient to buy it online, and would like to try it as soon as possible, it is available at most health food stores that carry other Dr. Bronner’s products.
However, it’s almost always cheaper to buy it on Amazon even compared to buying it directly from the company that makes it… just a heads up on that too, it’s good to know as you’re shopping around and comparing prices.
How long does a bottle last?
The last several years I typically only use Sal Suds for my general, every day cleaning (and to get grease stains out of my laundry, my tutorial for how to do that can be found here) for a family of five living in a home that is approximately 1500 sq ft.
For our needs, a 32 ounce bottle lasts me approximately six to eight months (my average usage for the past 15+ years).
However, if you’re dealing with more square footage, a larger family, are more OCD than I am, or use it for laundry/dish detergent it obviously won’t stretch as far.
Also, when you’re first using it, try not to go too crazy and use way more than necessary.
My sister and I both went through our first bottle probably 10 times faster than we should have (just because we loved it so much and were not used to using such a highly concentrated product).
How to use Sal Suds (photo & video tutorial found here)
I wanted to share with you some free printable instructions on how to mix it for typical everyday use in a spray bottle, as well as some simple directions on how to use it when you’re doing regular “bucket of soapy water” cleaning too.
How to dilute & use Sal Suds for general cleaning
Printable instructions for how to properly dilute your Sal Suds for general cleaning purposes in the home.
Materials
- Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner
- Water
Tools
- Spray Bottle
- Bucket
- Cleaning Rags
- Scrub brush (optional)
Instructions
Fill a bucket with your desired amount of water.
Add about 1 & 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 mls) Sal Suds per gallon (3.8 liters) of water.
Dip a clean rag into the bucket, wring it out, and wash/scrub your surfaces as needed. -
Repeat step 3 as necessary until you are done cleaning. 
When the water/soap mixture in the bucket becomes murky, dump it out and start with a fresh "soap and water" solution (repeating steps 1&2). Get a fresh rag to use for scrubbing as needed.
How to dilute & use Sal Suds as "soap and water" for cleaning with a bucket:
How to dilute & use Sal Suds for use in a spray bottle:
Starting with a new spray bottle, fill with water until it has about one inch (2.5 cm) or so of head room.
Add anywhere from a couple of drops to 1 Tablespoon (15 mls) of Sal Suds depending on how strong you need it to be (I generally use about five drops per 32 oz (0.95 liters) of water). 
Twist the spray bottle lid back on, and adjust it to a mist setting.
Spray/mist desired surfaces and allow it to soak for 15-30 seconds (spray into the rag for electronics cleaning).
Wipe down/scrub with a fresh rag.
Repeat as needed & swap to a fresh rag when the other gets dirty. Also, make sure to label your spray bottle for future use.
Notes
*Sal Suds loses its effectiveness if it is used in conjunction with Vinegar. Make sure to use one or the other when cleaning. *
For extra heavy jobs, dilute it by half and use a scrub brush when necessary.
Make sure to use a new spray bottle when using it in a spray bottle, so that you aren't "mixing chemicals".
**Always put the water in your spray bottle first and then add the Sal Suds, or it'll be a bubbly mess.**
Sal Suds for dishes:
Add 1 & 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 mls) Sal Suds per sink full of dirty dishes. To pre-treat/soak your extra dirty dishes, prepare a spray bottle (with the directions listed above) and give them a generous spritz. Allow to soak for a few minutes and then wash by hand or load into dishwasher.
Sal Suds soft scrub:
Mix it with baking soda to form a paste.
Sal Suds for laundry detergent:
Use Two Tablespoons (30 mls) per load, or 1 Tablespoon (15 mls) per load for a high efficiency washing machine.
Recommended Products
Please note that I am an affiliate with Amazon.com. When you purchase through my suggested product links, the cost for you is the same but I do receive a small commission for everything in your shopping cart. Thanks so much for the support!
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Dr. Bronner's - Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner (16 Ounce) - All-Purpose Cleaner, Pine Cleaner for Floors, Laundry and Dishes, Concentrated, Cuts Grease and Dirt, Powerful Cleaner, Gentle on Skin -
Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Concentrate Mild 32 Oz -
Dr. Bronner's - Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner (1 Gallon) - All-Purpose Pine Cleaner for Floors, Laundry and Dishes, Concentrated, Cuts Grease and Dirt, Powerful, Gentle on Skin -
Rubbermaid Roughneck Square Bucket, 15-Quart, Blue, Sturdy Pail Bucket Organizer Household Cleaning Supplies Projects Mopping Storage Comfortable Durable Grip Pour Handle -
Uineko Plastic Spray Bottle (4 Pack, 24 Oz, All-Purpose) Heavy Duty Spraying Bottles Leak Proof Mist Empty Water Bottle for Cleaning Solution Planting Pet with Adjustable Nozzle and Measurements -
AIDEA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths White-50PK, Absorbent Cleaning Rags, Lint Free Cloth, Scratch-Free, Streak-Free Wash Cloth, Dish Towels White (11.5in.x 11.5in.)
Some bonus reasons I love it
Here are the other reasons that I decided that Sal Suds was going to be the main product I use for my cleaning routine:
- It has no additives! I’m allergic to random scents, dyes, and brighteners but Sal Suds does not contain any of these things.
- It’s Biodegradable!
- It’s certified Animal Compassionate and Vegan.
- It contains no synthetic preservatives.
- It is scented with pure essential oils (spruce and fir).
- It’s an effective grease cutter, yet it’s mild, it has the same pH level as standard soap.
My love letter (Sal Suds review) about my favorite multi-purpose cleaning product is finally over, ha ha…;)
Conclusion
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the many facets of Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds, revealing its remarkable versatility and eco-conscious qualities as an all-purpose cleaner.
From the kitchen to the laundry room, the bathroom to outdoor spaces, Sal Suds has proven itself as a reliable and effective cleaning companion.
Its biodegradable nature aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly cleaning solutions, allowing us to maintain a spotless home while minimizing our environmental impact.
As we conclude our exploration of Sal Suds, it’s clear that this remarkable product isn’t just a cleaner; it’s a testament to the power of conscious consumer choices.
By incorporating Sal Suds into your cleaning routine, you’re not only ensuring a sparkling living environment but also contributing to a cleaner, greener planet.
So, armed with this complete guide, let Sal Suds transform the way you clean, making your home and the world a better place, one eco-friendly swipe at a time.
FAQ’s
Sal Suds is a versatile, biodegradable cleaner that finds its utility in a wide range of cleaning tasks. It can be used as a powerful dish soap, effectively cutting through grease and grime on dishes and cookware.
Additionally, it serves as a formidable laundry detergent for both handwashing and machine washing, ensuring your clothes come out clean and fresh. Its cleaning capabilities extend beyond the kitchen and laundry room – Sal Suds is an excellent all-purpose cleaner for surfaces like countertops, floors, and walls, making household cleaning more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Whether it’s tackling tough stains, keeping your home spotless, or even aiding in outdoor cleaning, Sal Suds proves itself as a reliable and eco-conscious cleaning solution.
Sal Suds is not limited to indoor applications. It can be used to wash your car, and clean outdoor furniture. Its biodegradable nature makes it an eco-friendly choice for those who want to minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining a sparkling clean home.
With Sal Suds, the possibilities for effective and eco-conscious cleaning are virtually endless.
While Sal Suds is a versatile and effective cleaner for a wide range of surfaces and cleaning tasks, there are a few materials and items on which it’s best to avoid using it.
Sal Suds is a concentrated cleaner that can be strong, so it’s not recommended for use on delicate or sensitive materials, such as untreated wood, unsealed stone, and certain types of natural fabrics.
Using Sal Suds on these surfaces may lead to discoloration, damage, or deterioration over time. Additionally, due to its concentrated nature, it’s essential to follow the recommended dilution ratios to prevent excessive strength, which could potentially harm surfaces or cause unnecessary waste.
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific items or surfaces you are unsure about before using Sal Suds to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
Also note that it is not recommended to use it on pets or people.
When wondering “is Sal Suds a disinfectant” it is important to know that it is primarily a powerful cleaner but does not have disinfectant properties on its own.
It is formulated to cut through grease and grime effectively, making it excellent for cleaning various surfaces and items in your home.
However, if you need to disinfect surfaces, it’s essential to use a separate disinfectant product or a disinfectant solution in addition to Sal Suds.
* I will add more sal suds related questions and answers as they get sent to me.
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Check out my other cleaning tips
Otherwise, here are direct links to several of my other cleaning/laundry related posts that you’re also going to love:
My most popular laundry & cleaning articles
Other good resources on Sal Suds uses
Maybe you’re not a fan of what I had to say about uses for Sal Suds…and that’s totally okay.
If you would like some other reputable resources to keep researching about it, you could try these:
- https://getkamfortable.com/2018/02/25/dr-bronners-sal-suds-review/
- https://www.stain-removal-101.com/dr-bronners-sal-suds.html
- https://www.themakeyourownzone.com/sal-suds-dilution-sheet-cleaning-recipes/
*This cleaning article was originally shared to this blog on October 24th 2011, and has since been updated to improve user experience, add video instruction, as well as to make it as shareable as possible across the social medias.
**Please note that I do try my hardest to provide factual, but easy to understand, information about each topic. If you notice a discrepancy in my methods, facts, measurements, or see something that you deem “misinformation/incorrect” please make sure to notify me about it. I would prefer that you send me an email with a link to a more reputable resource on that subject, so that I can correct it as soon as possible. Thanks so much for helping this site become the best that it can be!
