I second the Orvus recommendation. It was originally marketed as sheep soap and as such can usually be found at your local seed and feed store. The last time I purchased some I picked up the 7.5 lb container for about $20.00. I just looked and Tractor Supply has the 7.5 lb container for $30.00, either way it’s much more affordable than the quilt shop across the street that charges almost $10.00 for 8 oz.
When I hand wash I stick a toothpick into the tub and whatever sticks is usually enough for the sink full. When using a washing machine I seldom use over a tablespoon. You can tell it lasts me a good long time even when I give away containers of it whenever we do a care and feeding of textiles program.
