Homemade Laundry Detergent

One inevitable life task is doing laundry. In this post, you will learn how to make an environmentally friendly and healthy natural laundry detergent to meet your cleaning needs.

First, why do it? Click here for the answer

Using homemade laundry detergent is a natural cleaning option for your clothes, reducing environmental harm. Store—bought detergents contain chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and environmental pollutants, damaging skin health and harming ecosystems.

Producing your all-natural laundry detergent provides washing solutions free of toxins.

Opt for a chemical-free laundry process by choosing detergents that lack sulfates, phosphates, and synthetic fragrances.

Savings on laundry costs are possible through homemade detergent since each washing cycle costs you only pennies.

Switching from bulk detergent containers will help reduce plastic waste inside your home.

✅ Keep clothes clean and fresh—without harsh chemicals!

Let’s get started! 👕🌿💧

🛒 Ingredients You'll Need

Main Ingredients (for a Powder Detergent)

Your detergent formula should include one natural soap bar, Castile or unscented coconut-based soap from Dr. Bronner's.

Prepare 2 cups of washing soda that contains sodium carbonate, which helps remove stains and eliminate odors.

Select 2 cups of borax to utilize its natural mineral cleaning power or 2 cups of baking soda for a gentler cleaning solution.

Optional: Incorporate 10–15 drops of essential oils, such as lavender, lemon, or tea tree, to enhance fragrance and antibacterial properties.

For a Liquid Detergent:

The liquid detergent requires identical ingredients to the powder formula but includes water as an extra component.

1 gallon of water

🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions (Powder Detergent)

Step 1: Grate the Soap

Use a cheese grater or food processor to shred the soap bar into small pieces.

Cutting pieces into smaller sizes makes dissolving easier.

Step 2: Mix with Washing Soda & Borax

Combine grated soap with washing soda and borax (or baking soda) in a large bowl.

Stir the mixture entirely until you obtain a smooth and consistent texture.

Step 3: Add Essential Oils (Optional)

Add between 10 and 15 drops of essential oil for a fresh scent during use.

Mix well to distribute the fragrance.

Step 4: Store in an Airtight Container

Transfer the detergent to a glass jar or a reusable container.

Label the storage container and keep it in a moisture-free environment.

Step 5: Use It!

Measure and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of detergent per laundry load.

Works in both hot and cold water.

🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions (Liquid Detergent)

Step 1: Grate the Soap & Melt It

Grate a soap bar, then pour it into a saucepan with four cups of water.

Heat the soap mixture on medium-low heat while stirring until it completely dissolves.

Step 2: Mix in the Washing Soda & Borax

Before adding to the large bucket, take 2 cups of washing soda and 2 cups of borax.

Pour the hot soap mixture into the bucket and continue stirring until it fully dissolves.

Step 3: Add Water & Essential Oils

Add 1 gallon of warm water to the mixture and continue stirring.

Add fragrance by inserting 10 to 15 drops of essential oil into the mixture.

Step 4: Store & Use

Put the mixture into a glass jug or an old detergent bottle repurposed for storage.

Shake before each use.

Use ½ cup per load.

💚 Why This Recipe is Safe & Eco-Friendly

The detergent formulation avoids harsh chemicals while omitting sulfates, phosphates, and synthetic fragrances. This biodegradable product decomposes naturally and safeguards waterways from harm.

🧴Plastic-free – Reduce reliance on store-bought plastic bottles.

The detergent gently cleans sensitive skin and baby clothes while ensuring clothes remain spotless and free from irritating chemicals.

🧐 Common Questions

1. Can I use this detergent in High-Efficiency washing machines?

✔️ Yes! Use one tablespoon per load since it creates very little suds.

2. Can this detergent achieve the same cleaning effectiveness as products available in stores?

✔️ Absolutely! Natural cleaning power comes from soap that removes grease and stains, while washing soda, and borax are potent natural cleaning agents.

3. Can my homemade cleaning solution replace borax with baking soda?

✔️ Yes! Sensitive skin types can use baking soda because it functions as a gentle yet effective cleaning agent.

4. Does it work in cold water?

Powder detergent requires dissolution in warm water before application in cold water washing.

✨ Final Thoughts: A Simple, Green Choice

Creating your own natural laundry detergent can safeguard your health, reduce environmental waste, and protect your loved ones from toxic substances. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Try it and let us know how it works for you.

Would you like more eco-friendly home recipes? Drop a comment below! 🌿💦👕