How to make homemade laundry detergent
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Many common laundry detergents come with harsh or unnecessary chemicals. And even some gentle detergents can still contain allergens. If you want to control the ingredients in your detergent and save money at the same time, try an eco-friendly, cost-effective DIY laundry soap. Whether you’re a DIY expert or a beginner, you can make a detergent that's gentle on fabrics but tough on stains from scratch.
Cost comparison: DIY vs store-bought
One of the biggest benefits of making your own laundry detergent is the cost savings. A homemade detergent can be made with just a few simple and affordable ingredients, such as baking soda, washing soda, and Castile soap. In comparison, store-bought detergents often contain expensive chemicals and additives that can drive up the cost. The average cost per load of store-bought detergent is around 20 cents per load, whereas the DIY version can cost around 8 cents per load.
Homemade laundry detergent recipe
Ingredients:
1 bar of soap (Castile and Fels-Naptha are popular choices)
1 cup of washing soda (a sodium carbonate like baking soda, but more concentrated)
1 cup of borax
essential oils (optional for scent)
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Safety reminder: Household ingredients like borax, washing soda, and essential oils require adult supervision. Always follow the safety instructions on the label. Be sure to store the contents safely and clearly and prominently label them.
Instructions:
Grate the bar of soap using a cheese grater or food processor.
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Add the grated soap to the pot and stir until it dissolves.
In a separate container, mix 1 cup of washing soda and 1 cup of borax.
Slowly add the washing soda and borax mixture to the pot while stirring continuously.
Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
Add your desired essential oils for scent (5-10 drops should suffice).
Pour the mixture into a large container or bucket.
Add enough hot water to fill the container, leaving an inch of space at the top.
Stir until all ingredients are well combined, and let sit overnight to thicken.
Use 1/4 cup for small loads and 1/2 cup for larger loads of laundry.
This homemade laundry detergent is gentle on clothes and cost-effective. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your laundry routine!
FAQs for making DIY laundry detergent
Q: Can I use any bar soap for homemade laundry detergent?
A: Most mild, natural bar soaps will work, but Castile or Fels-Naptha are recommended for their cleaning properties and compatibility with washing.
Q: How long does DIY laundry detergent last?
A: Homemade laundry detergent can last up to a year, but it's best used within six months for maximum effectiveness.
Q: Is homemade laundry detergent safe for high-efficiency (HE) washers?
A: This low-sudsing detergent is typically safe for most HE machines when used in the recommended amounts. Always read the manufacturer's instruction manual before using any DIY or alternative detergent in your washing machine, as some ingredients can nullify the manufacturer’s warranty.
Q: Can I use homemade laundry detergent on delicate fabrics?
A: Basic DIY laundry detergent with mild, natural ingredients is generally gentle enough for delicates, but always check the machine manual and perform a spot test first.
Q: What can I use instead of borax if I have skin sensitivities?
A: You can substitute borax with baking soda, though the cleaning power may be slightly reduced.
Q: How can I increase the cleaning power of my homemade detergent?
A: Adding more washing soda can boost the cleaning power, but be mindful of the fabric care instructions, especially for delicate items.
Q: Do I have to use essential oils?
A: Essential oils are optional and mainly used to add scent to your laundry detergent.
Q: What should I do if my laundry detergent doesn't thicken overnight?
A: Ensure that all ingredients are well dissolved and mixed. Temperature and humidity can affect the thickening, so give it more time or a vigorous stir.
Q: Can I use this detergent to wash baby clothes?
A: It can be safe enough for baby clothes, but for infants with sensitive skin, you might want to omit the essential oils and test the detergent on a small batch first.
Q: How do I store my homemade laundry detergent?
A: Store it in an airtight container or bucket with a lid in a cool, dry place to maximize its shelf life.
Rethinking the rinse: DIY laundry detergent
While making your own DIY laundry detergent isn’t for everyone, it can save money and reduce harsh chemicals for some. But always be sure to check your washing machine’s official manufacturer instructions and follow the recipes using natural and mild ingredients. Happy washing. 🧼
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