Best Non-Toxic Homemade Laundry Detergent
User Reviews
5
-
Servings
80 loads
Best Non-Toxic Homemade Laundry Detergent
Description
The Best Non-Toxic Homemade Laundry Detergent is a powder blend made by finely processing a bar of Castile soap, which acts as a gentle cleaning agent. Borax and washing soda provide water softening and stain removal properties, while baking soda helps deodorize laundry. Sodium percarbonate, often known as oxygen bleach, boosts stain-fighting and whitening power without chlorine bleach.
The detergent is mixed thoroughly in a food processor to ensure uniform texture and is stored in an airtight container to prevent clumping. About two tablespoons are recommended per load, with a smaller amount recommended for high-efficiency machines. Optional essential oils such as tea tree, thyme, and lemon oils can be added to help prevent mold and add fresh natural fragrance.
This detergent provides a customizable, eco-friendlier alternative to commercial products, with flexibility for substitutions like using more baking soda if borax is unavailable. It also can be dissolved in water before use if preferred.
Ingredients
- 1 oz bar Castile soap I use Kirk's brand
- 1¾ cup borax
- 1¾ cup washing soda
- 1½ cup baking soda
- 5 tablespoons sodium percarbonate (or 1 1/4 cup Oxi Clean Free)
Optional Essential Oils for Mold Prevention
- 15 drops tea tree oil
- 15 drops thyme oil
- 15 drops lemon oil
Instructions
- Grate the castile soap with a grater.
- Put the grated castile soap pieces in a food processor bowl. Pulse until only large crumbs (no chunks) remain.
- Add remaining ingredients to the food processor and alternate pulsing and blending until well combined.
- Store detergent in an air-tight container to help avoid clumping.
- Simply add about 2 tablespoons directly into your washer bin with your clothes (you might want to only use 1 tablespoon for HE front loaders. Add more, if desired, for larger or more heavily stained loads.
Notes
- Grated Castile soap helps ensure even blending and avoids damaging food processor blades; chopping is an alternative but less efficient.
- To prevent clumping in humid climates, store detergent with a dessicant in an airtight container.
- Baking soda can substitute borax if unavailable, though effects may vary slightly.
- For some needs, pre-dissolving detergent in water before adding to the washer may improve performance.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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