So . . . I did some research. I looked specifically for people doing no-poo (baking soda and ACV) with hard water. I had some difficulty, but found a few people who said they'd doubled the baking soda for hard water. I was out of other ideas so I gave it a try. I added 1/4 cup baking soda to two cups of water. I kept the ACV to 1 tablespoon per cup of water. (You do them in separate containers- don't mix these)
After I mixed my "shampoo" and "conditioner" I brushed my hair. I got it smooth and then brushed it from root to tip to help spread my hair's natural oils. Then I got in the shower and with my hair dry I started to pour the baking soda mixture on my head. I had read another blog that suggesting starting with dry hair to be sure you didn't miss any sections. I rubbed it through my hair and on my scalp. Once I'd worked it through, I rinsed it really thoroughly. (Really thoroughly!)
Then I worked the ACV through my hair and let it sit a few minutes. After a few minutes I rinsed my hair- again very thoroughly. My hair felt pretty clean but I refused to get my hopes up.
Guess what! It looked clean when it dried, too. After 3 days I washed it again. And three days later I washed it again. I've now been using it for a few months. If I'm careful, if I brush it before I get in the shower, wash thoroughly and rinse really well, it looks beautiful. It is shiny and soft and clean. I can wait 2-3 days before I wash it again. It feels light and the natural wave is pronounced.
So- It works! I can wash my hair with hard water and still use the no poo method. I have eliminated sodium laurel sulfate and other nastiness from my shower. YAY!
Hard Water "Shampoo"
2 cups water (I use tap)
1/4 cup baking soda
ACV Conditioner
2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
2 cups water