Natural Cleaning Recipe: Homemade Laundry Detergent
Looking for a natural and cost-effective way to clean your clothes? Homemade laundry detergent might be the solution you've been searching for. By creating your own detergent, you can avoid harsh chemicals and reduce your environmental impact. Follow this simple recipe to make your own homemade laundry detergent.
Homemade Laundry Detergent
- 250g borax substitute (sodium sesquicarbonate)
- 250g soda crystals
- 100g soapnut powder
-
10 drops of essential oil - we love lavender for this, but lemon or Purity essential oil blend also all works well here
- Airtight container
- Optional: Green bleach - also known as percarbonate of soda
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a container and mix well. If using essential oils, leave to dry for one hour before putting the lid on. Store in an airtight container.
Please note: While the recipe calls for a borax substitute, which is toxin-free, it's important to note that using actual borax can raise safety concerns and is often not recommended in DIY cleaning products. Alternatives to soapnut powder include grated natural bar soap.
How to use
Add 1-2 tablespoons of the homemade detergent per load of laundry to the washing machine drawer.
For whites or stained clothes, supercharge your detergent with a tablespoon of green bleach (percarbonate of soda) added to the washing machine drum to help lift stains and naturally brighten.
Why it works
This homemade laundry detergent works thanks to the teamwork of its ingredients:
- Borax substitute (Sodium Sesquicarbonate): This ingredient tackles stains, boosts your detergent's effectiveness, softens water, and aids in overall cleaning.
- Soda crystals: They help soften hard water, making it easier to remove dirt and grease from your clothes.
- Soapnut powder: This natural alternative to soap acts as a surfactant, lifting dirt and grime from your laundry.
-
Percarbonate of soda (green bleach): This optional extra is an oxygen-based bleaching agent that helps remove stains and brighten white laundry.
Essential oils offer a pleasant scent but don't directly contribute to cleaning. If you're used to the strong fragrance of commercial detergents, keep in mind that this natural option may have a subtler smell.
