Homemade HE Laundry Soap: Natural, Great-Smelling, and Budget-Friendly!

by

Why Make Your Own Laundry Detergent?

Switching to homemade laundry soap offers multiple benefits. It’s not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly and customizable to your preference. This recipe provides an economical solution that lasts a year for a family of four, making laundry day a breeze.

Ingredients:

  1. Bar Soap (1 bar)
  • Castile soap is a great option, as it’s gentle and natural.
  1. Borax (4 pounds)
  • Acts as a cleaning booster and stain remover.
  1. Washing Soda (3 pounds)
  • Helps to remove dirt and soften water.
  1. Baking Soda (3.5 pounds)
  • Neutralizes odors and helps brighten clothes.
  1. Optional: Method Fragrance Boosters
  • Provides a fresh scent to your laundry.
  1. Optional: Essential Oil
  • Customize your soap with natural fragrances like lavender or eucalyptus.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Grate the Bar Soap:
  • Use a cheese grater or a food processor to finely grate the bar soap. Smaller pieces dissolve more easily in the wash, ensuring even distribution.
  1. Process the Fragrance Boosters:
  • If using fragrance boosters, chop them in the food processor with the grated soap. This helps the fragrance mix evenly with the other ingredients.
  1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
  • In a large container or bucket, mix the Borax, washing soda, baking soda, and the grated soap mixture. Make sure to blend all ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumping.
  1. Mix Thoroughly:
  • Use a large spoon or your hands (wearing gloves) to ensure all components are well integrated. This ensures the effectiveness of the detergent in cleaning your clothes.
  1. Store the Detergent:
  • Transfer the detergent into an airtight container or jar. Label the container and keep it in a dry, cool place to maintain its effectiveness.
  1. Usage Instructions:
  • For high-efficiency (HE) machines, use 1 tablespoon of the detergent per load. For top-loading machines, you can use up to 2 tablespoons.
  1. Add Essential Oil:
  • If you want an extra scent, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the detergent right before you start the wash cycle.

Additional Tips:

  • Test on Fabrics: Before using the homemade detergent on delicate or specialty fabrics, test a small amount on a less visible area to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.
  • Safety Precautions: Keep the detergent away from children and pets, as the ingredients can be harmful if ingested.
  • Custom Scents: Customize the scent of your detergent with essential oils like lemon for freshness, peppermint for a cooling aroma, or tea tree for its natural antibacterial properties.

Benefits of Homemade Laundry Soap:

  • Cost-Effective: This recipe is budget-friendly, costing under $30 and lasting a whole year for a family of four.
  • Environmentally Friendly: By choosing natural ingredients, you reduce the number of chemicals entering the water supply and the environment.
  • Customizable: Adjust the scent and ingredients according to your preference or specific needs (e.g., sensitivity to certain chemicals or fragrances).

This homemade HE laundry soap offers a sustainable, effective, and enjoyable way to handle your laundry needs. It’s a perfect blend of practicality and personal touch, ensuring your clothes are clean, fresh, and well cared for.

Leave a Comment