Homemade Laundry Detergent

This DIY Laundry Detergent is so easy to make and is a great way to save money. This is a wonderful non toxic alternative to store bought laundry soap.

When looking to make some household swaps for a more non toxic lifestyle this was the first one I decide to take on. We were already using a fragrance free detergent from the store but I wanted to see if a homemade laundry soap would clean as well as the store bought. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to make and how well it worked. I have been using it now for over 10 years now and still love it. I personally think the smell of the soap is enough but my husband loves to add essential oils into the detergent. I love using peppermint oil as it gives it a fresh smell.

The easiest way to make this soap is to grate the soap and add ingredients into a large jar. Some prefer to cook theirs and make a liquid soap. I honestly don’t think its worth going to the trouble and extra time. So this recipe will be for a dry powder.

The cost of this detergent is also a motivator in making it. In this economy there is not greater reason to try this recipe out. I know how expensive a small bottle of laundry detergent is now and it is a good way to cut back on expenses. I usually will make a large batch and it will last around 6months.

Ingredients

  • Borax
  • Super Washing Soda
  • Baking Soda
  • Fels-naptha or Castille Soap
  • Essential oil of choice

Tools Needed

  • Large Bowl
  • Jar or Storage Container
  • Scoop
  • Spoon
  • Grater
  • Measuring cups
  1. First take 2 soap bars of your choice and grate them finely. I use fels-naptha but you can use whichever you prefer.

2. I then use a large bowl to mix all my ingredients. To the bowl add 1 4lb box borax, 1 3lb box washing soda, 1 2lb box baking soda and grated soap. Mix thoroughly until combined.

Screenshot

3. Once the powder is combined mix in 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oil. This is of course optional but I love using peppermint in mine.

4. Then add detergent into a large canister and store. I use roughly 2tbsp of detergent per load. If this load is really dirty or stained I use 3tbsp. I also use vinegar in place of fabric softener which helps sanitize and clean the clothes well.