I mix up my own laundry and dishwasher soap – less expensive than buying, and easy to do.
DISHWASHER DETERGENT
* 1 cup Washing Soda
* 1 cup Borax
* 1/2 cup Dishwasher Salt (can use Kosher Salt)
* 1/2 cup citric acid (optional)
* Essential oil, if desired
Add 1 – 2 Tablespoons to the dishwasher’s detergent dispenser
Mix and store in airtight container
I mix a double batch if I have enough ingredients
LAUNDRY DETERGENT
* 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate – boosts cleaning power)
* 1 cup borax (natural deodorizer and stain remover)
* 1 bar laundry soap (such as Fels-Naptha, Zote, or a natural castile soap)
Instructions
Grate the soap bar using a cheese grater or food processor until it’s fine and crumbly.
Mix the grated soap with washing soda and borax in a large airtight container.
Store in the airtight container to keep it dry and fresh.
Tips for Best Results
1-2 Tablespoons per load. Works in both hot and cold water. For extra whitening, add ½ cup of baking soda to the mix.
If you have hard water, a splash of white vinegar in the rinse cycle can help soften clothes and prevent residue.
Always test on delicate fabrics before regular use.
BORAX-FREE LAUNDRY DETERGENT
Ingredients
– 1 bar pure castile soap (unscented or scented)
– 1 cup washing soda
– 1 cup baking soda
– Optional: 10–20 drops essential oil (lavender, lemon, eucalyptus)
Instructions
– Grate the castile soap using a cheese grater or food processor.
– For a finer texture, pulse the grated soap with a small amount of washing soda.
– In a large bowl, combine:
– Grated castile soap
– Washing soda
– Baking soda
– Mix thoroughly until uniform.
– Add essential oils if desired and mix again.
– Store in an airtight container.
How to Use
– HE machines: 1 tablespoon per load
– Standard machines: 2 tablespoons per load
– Optional: Add a splash of white vinegar in the rinse cycle for extra freshness.
Notes
– Safe for sensitive skin.
– Works in both HE and standard washers.
– Avoid mixing vinegar directly with the soap mixture.