If you’ve ever taken a look at the ingredient list on store-bought laundry detergents, you might have felt a little uneasy. There are all kinds of chemicals in those bottles, and many of them are not great for your skin. I started thinking there has to be a better solution that would be better. I discovered that making your own laundry detergent isn’t that hard and is very beneficial. Here are a few reasons why making your own detergent could be a game changer.
- Save Money
One of the biggest reasons I decided to try making my own detergent was because it’s so much cheaper. The ingredients are simple and, once you buy them, you can make multiple batches that will last for months. That means more cash in your pocket for other fun things. - Eco-Friendly
Commercial detergents come in plastic bottles, and most of them contain chemicals that harm the environment. By making your own detergent, you’re cutting down on plastic waste and using natural ingredients that are much better for the planet. - Gentle on Sensitive Skin
If you or anyone in your family has sensitive skin or allergies, homemade detergent is a great way to avoid the harsh chemicals found in most store-bought products. You can even leave out fragrances or use gentle, skin-friendly essential oils to add a subtle scent. - Know What’s Going Into Your Detergent
When you make your own detergent, you have complete control over the ingredients. No more worrying about what’s lurking in that bottle! You’ll know exactly what’s going on your clothes—and, more importantly, what’s going on your skin.
How to Make Laundry Detergent: A Simple Recipe
Okay, now that you know why it’s worth making your own, let’s get down to the how-to. I promise this is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Here’s the recipe that I use, and it works like a charm every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 bar of soap (I love Dr. Bronner’s Castile soap, but any natural, unscented soap will work)
- 1 cup washing soda (you’ll find this in the laundry aisle)
- 1 cup borax (also in the laundry aisle)
- 4 cups of water (for dissolving)
- 2-3 gallons of water (for dilution)
- Essential oils (optional, if you want a nice scent)
You Will Need the Following:
- Cheese grater or food processor (to grate the soap)
- Large container for mixing
- A big bucket (to store the detergent)
- Stirring stick or spoon
- Storage containers (I’ll get into the best ones below!)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Grate Soap | Start by grating your soap bar. This helps it dissolve more easily in the water. I usually use a cheese grater or food processor for this. |
| 2. Dissolve Soap in Water | Add the grated soap to 4 cups of hot water in a large pot. Stir until it’s completely dissolved. You’ll start to see the mixture turning into a liquid. |
| 3. Add Washing Soda & Borax | Once the soap is dissolved, stir in 1 cup of washing soda and 1 cup of borax. Keep stirring until both powders dissolve. This is where the magic happens! |
| 4. Fill the Bucket | Next, pour the mixture into your large bucket. Add 2-3 gallons of water, depending on how thick you want your detergent. Give it a good stir to combine everything. |
| 5. Let It Set | Now comes the hard part—waiting! Let the detergent sit for about 24 hours. It may thicken up or turn into a gel-like consistency. Don’t worry, that’s totally normal. Stir it occasionally. |
| 6. Add Essential Oils (Optional) | If you want to add fragrance, this is the time. A few drops of your favorite essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon are all great options) will leave your laundry smelling fresh. |
| 7. Store and Use | Once your detergent is ready, pour it into your storage containers. You can use about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per load, depending on how dirty your clothes are. |
Best Laundry Storage Containers for Homemade Detergent
Now that you’ve made your detergent, you’ll want to store it in a way that’s both functional and convenient. The right storage container makes a huge difference. Here are some of my favorite options:
- Glass Jars with Lids
Glass jars are perfect for storing liquid detergent, especially if you like things to look organized and neat. They’re airtight and keep the detergent fresh. Plus, they look so cute in your laundry room! Recommended: Me Decor Laundry Detergent Dispenser for Laundry Room – Two Empty Half Gallon Glass Jugs - Plastic Dispensers with Measuring Markings
If you prefer something lightweight, I recommend a plastic dispenser with measuring lines. These are super handy for easy pouring and make it simple to measure the right amount of detergent for each load. Recommend: Dollcube Clear Airtight Fabric Softener Container With Measuring Cup - Repurposed Containers
Want to save even more money and help the environment? Repurpose old detergent bottles or plastic containers. You can wash them out and reuse them for your homemade detergent. It’s a great way to reduce waste! - Buckets with Lids
If you’ve made a big batch, a large bucket with a lid is the way to go. This keeps the detergent sealed and ready for use. Just grab a scoop and you’re good to go! Recommended: Homemaxs Household Laundry Detergent Container
Final Thoughts
Making your own laundry detergent is so much easier than you might think, and the benefits are totally worth it. Not only will you save money and reduce waste, but you’ll also be able to use a product that’s gentle on your skin and the planet. I hope this guide has inspired you to give it a try! Your laundry routine might just be about to get a whole lot more eco-friendly—and a little bit more fun.
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