My first foray into a more natural lifestyle was accidental. I went online looking for a DIY laundry detergent, then started reading about all the chemicals in most commercial detergents and cleaning supplies. I was originally looking for a way to save money, but the thought of purging my house of these unwanted chemicals was appealing, as well.
After many tweaks, here is the tried and true recipe that I use now. If you want to reduce your exposure to chemicals, this is a simple, easy way to get started.
DIY Laundry Detergent
5 gallon bucket with lid
1 soap bar
4 cups boiling water
1 cup washing soda
1/2 cup Borax
Grate the bar soap on a box grater, then gently mix into the boiling water. (Turn off the heat on the stove. The residual heat and gentle stirring will dissolve the soap.)
Once the soap has dissolved, dump the mixture and remaining ingredients into the 5 gallon bucket and gently stir.
Next, fill the bucket with warm water until it is 3/4 full.
Let the mixture sit overnight and stir again in the morning (or 8 hours later if starting in the morning). The consistency should resemble egg drop soup; it will be a mixture of liquid and chunks.
I separate my detergent into two smaller buckets. It makes it easier to carry, but then I can also make two different-scented batches. I always make one with 25 drops of a proprietary immune-boosting essential oil blend consisting of Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus (radiata), Rosemary, and Wild Orange. I use this for loads with towels, undergarments, or if anyone has been sick. I scent the other batch, for everyday clothes, as the mood strikes me. Sometimes it’s a mix of lavender and wild orange essential oils. The last one I made used my favorite grounding blend of Spruce, Ho Wood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy and Blue Chamomile essential oils. I use the same amount of essential oil (25 drops) for the second bucket.
This works well in my HE front loader, and I know several people who use it for HE machines, as well. I generally use 1/4 cup scoop for large loads; your mileage may vary. I should note that we don’t have any whites in our wardrobe other than socks, but it keeps all of our colors nice and bright, and takes care of all the cardboard dust and grime that my husband brings home from work. I haven’t used this on our cloth diapers because I follow warranty instructions for our brand (which require specific detergents), but others have told me that it works well for diapers, too.
Have you used a homemade detergent? Tell us what you thought in the comments!
Shannon is a wife and mom to one little guy. She spends her days playing with him and looking for new activities and recipes. She also has an addiction to sci-fi and B movies.