Flat lay of homemade laundry detergent ingredients with labeled jars of baking soda and washing soda, a grated soap bar, and a glass container

🧼 DIY Laundry Detergent: How to Make Your Own Natural Cleaner

Transform your laundry routine with the best homemade detergent recipes! Learn how to make the most effective cleaning agents for low cost, saving you time and money.

Why Make Your Own Laundry Detergent?

Making your own DIY laundry detergent is an easy way to save money, cut back on harsh chemicals, and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. 🌱✨ Homemade detergent cleans just as effectively as store brands, and it’s customizable for sensitive skin and eco-conscious households. Even experts like HouseLogic recommend homemade options for healthier laundry care.

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Laundry Detergent

Illustrated DIY laundry detergent ingredients on a wooden shelf including baking soda, washing soda, Fels-Naptha soap, OxiClean, and a labeled glass jar
  • Baking soda
  • Washing soda
  • Fels-Naptha soap or Castile soap
  • White vinegar (optional)
  • Essential oils (optional)
  • Airtight storage container

Pro Tip: Find bulk ingredient deals at Surviving A Teacher’s Salary.

DIY Laundry Detergent Recipes (Powder & Liquid)

Simple Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent Recipe

Flat lay of homemade laundry detergent ingredients with labeled jars of baking soda and washing soda, a grated soap bar, and a glass container
  • 1 cup washing soda
  • 1 cup baking soda
  • 1 bar Fels-Naptha soap (grated)
  • 10–15 drops essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Grate the soap into fine shavings.
  2. Combine baking soda, washing soda, and grated soap in a large bowl.
  3. Add essential oils if desired and mix well.
  4. Store in an airtight jar.

Usage: Use 1–2 tablespoons per load.

DIY Liquid Laundry Detergent Without Borax

  • 1 bar castile soap (grated)
  • ½ cup washing soda
  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 1 gallon hot water
  • 10–15 drops essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Dissolve grated soap in 2 cups hot water.
  2. Add washing soda and baking soda, stirring until dissolved.
  3. Pour into gallon container and fill with warm water.
  4. Add essential oils, shake well before use.

Usage: Use ¼ to ½ cup per load.

Homemade Detergent for Sensitive Skin and Baby Clothes

Use fragrance-free soap flakes and omit essential oils. Rinse with an extra cycle for softness. For bulk recipes, visit Must Have Mom.

Homemade vs Store-Bought Laundry Detergent Cost Comparison

OptionCost Per LoadIngredients
Homemade Powder$0.04–$0.06Baking soda, washing soda, grated soap
Store-Bought (Tide)$0.20–$0.30Chemical surfactants, fragrances

Common Mistakes When Making DIY Laundry Detergent

  • Using too much detergent
  • Not fully dissolving powder
  • Improper storage
  • Not shaking liquid before use

Homemade Detergent: Common Questions Answered

Final Thoughts on Making Your Own Laundry Detergent

DIY detergent is simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. Start with a small batch and see the difference! 🧺✨

👉 Explore more DIY cleaning supplies | Learn how to remove tough stains naturally.

🔄 Last Updated

This post was last edited on April 29, 2025.

Found this DIY detergent guide helpful? Bookmark it for your next laundry day or share it with a friend who loves natural cleaning tips! 🌿

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