Homemade Natural Powder Laundry Detergent
This easy-to-follow homemade laundry detergent recipe uses simple, natural ingredients found at most grocery stores. It’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and a great way to cut down on waste in your laundry routine.
Yield: 64 laundry loads
Author: Mary Hanchard, RHN
Cost: ~$0.08/load
Box grater or food processor
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Wooden Spoon
Gallon jar or airtight container
Tablespoon to leave in your detergent jar
Grate 1.5 soap bars using the fine side of a cheese grater. To get the job done faster, check out our Top Tip above!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the washing soda, baking soda, and borax, stirring well to ensure even distribution.
Add 30 drops of lemon essential oil (or your preferred scent) to the mixture and mix again until the scent is evenly distributed.
To use: Add 2 TBSP of your homemade laundry detergent to the detergent compartment of your washing machine.
Storing your homemade laundry detergent: Store your homemade laundry detergent in a labeled gallon jar or other airtight container, and keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping and maintain effectiveness. A dry laundry
- Hot water is recommended for best results. Cold water may not dissolve the ingredients in this homemade detergent as effectively, which could leave residue on your clothes or reduce its cleaning power.
- For larger loads you may add a small amount more. This recipe is suitable for top loader and high efficiency washing machines.
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Add 1/2 cup white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment — this will naturally soften fabrics and eliminates odors.
- Tip: Keep a spray bottle of white vinegar on hand to pre-treat stains or freshen up smelly areas like shirt armpits before washing.