Laundry Detergent Step-By-Step

We can all accept the fact that we have the ability to run into the grocery store, drug store or our local chain big box store and come out with laundry detergent, whether its powder or liquid, scented or unscented, and enough for a few loads or the economy size. The question to ask yourself: "is there a benefit to all the choices and convenience when you can make your own at home with minimal ingredients and effort for a fraction of the cost?"

A few years ago I was introduced to homemade laundry detergent (thank you Holly) and fell in love with it! It was safe enough to use on our newborn baby's skin, it does not bother my daughter's eczema, and my husband prefers our clothes not to be scented. Below are the step-by-step instructions to make your own. If you don't like our version there are many out there to try.

HOMEMADE LAUNDRY DETERGENT

Step 1: Scrounge through the closets, pantry, garage, basement, etc. and find an old pot that you can use to make the laundry detergent in as well as any other cleaning products you might want to try.

Step 2: Grate a 1/2 bar of Fels Naptha into the pot. If you are unable to find Fels Naptha, you can look for Colgate, Kirk's Castile Soap or Zote. If your local stores do not carry these brands do not despair, they are easily found online to be ordered.

Step 3: To the pot add 1/2 cup 20 Mule Team Borax (stains & bleaching); 1/2 cup Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (stains); and 1/2 cup White Vinegar (softens fabric, reduces static, and bleaches.)

Step 4: Pour in 4 quarts of water. Turn the burner to medium high heat. Stir the mixture slowly until all of the ingredients are dissolved.

Step 5: Now is the point in which you want to let it cool down. If you can hold out an hour, that is best but I have been rushed and skipped this step and everything still turns out okay. To the cooled mixture you want to add two gallons of water and stir. Now you're done!

No, you're not quite done yet.

Step 6: You need to store the detergent. I have found that washed out plastic cat litter containers work great as well as gallon milk jugs. You are going to want something with a lid so that when the detergent gels up a little, you can shake it up or add more hot water if necessary.

Step 7: Time to do the laundry! I have found for the smaller loads a 1/4 cup will do but for the more heavily stained and larger loads you are going to want to use up to 1/2 cup. These measurements will vary for everyone as some have hard water, older machines, he machines, etc. It will take a little experimenting to see what works for you!

We do not add any scents to the detergent as the bar soap keeps the detergent smelling fresh (and the house smells great after you make this.) Some people will add a little rose water or an essential oil if they are so inclined, the choice is yours.

Now take a deep breath and tackle that mountain of laundry you have been avoiding!

-Adena