Could someone clue me up about eco balls and the like??

[TrinityRhino]

do they work? how do they work? do they really save money?

pretty please

Not sure about eco balls, did try some a long time ago but my dp is a mechanic so they weren't very practical (this was before children!). But I am currently trialling soapnuts and they seem very good (not tried them on dp's work clothes yet though!) although they've not had any major stains to contend with! Think they will last a long time and work out cheaper too... Ooh, and they're compostable when used up!

don't know about the eco balls for washing, but I use those tumble dryer balls and they are fabulous! - Particularly for DS's muslins which he chews at night - the fabric softeners all have some sort of petroleum or oil base and the thought of DS sucking that made my teeth curl -

My dh has very eco balls.

Always reusable.

I love the theory behind these...it's just the practice that concerns me. When I asked somebody selling these at a Green Market about the smell/freshening aspect she said she added fabric conditioner, which to my my mind rather defeated the object!
Nonetheless I would love to have a FREE trial, if possible, before going to the (huge) expenseof buying the things. Trouble is , I don't know anyone who's bought any and could lend me theirs!
I feel so guilty when every day I wash stuff after only one wear, that isn't soiled in any way, just not fresh.( doesn't stop me doing it though[ blush]

I use eco-balls. Only thing that I missed was the smell of clean clothing IFYKWIM. you're not supposed to but I add a tiny drop of fabric conditioner to give it that fresh smell. (few drops of essential oil works too)

I even use them on nappies and they are perfect.