Whipping up your own homemade laundry detergent is surprisingly simple and can save you a pretty penny. It's customizable, eco-friendly, and leaves your clothes fresh and clean, all while avoiding harsh chemicals.
Castile soap: This is a gentle, yet effective soap made from vegetable oils, perfect for breaking down dirt and grime. Washing soda: It acts as a water softener, enhancing the detergent's effectiveness. Baking soda: It neutralizes odors and helps to brighten your clothes. Borax: A natural mineral that boosts cleaning power and helps remove stains. Essential oil: Optional, but adds a lovely fragrance to your laundry.
Start by grabbing a regular kitchen grater to grate the bar of castile soap. Think of it as prepping cheese for a pasta dish, but instead, it's for your laundry. Once you've got a fluffy pile of soap shavings, it's time to mix.
In a large bowl, combine your grated soap with the washing soda, baking soda, and borax. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything until it looks like a uniform powder. If you're feeling fancy, now's the moment to add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Gently stir it in to make sure the scent is evenly distributed.
Finally, transfer your homemade detergent to an airtight container. An old mason jar or a repurposed coffee tin works perfectly. Just make sure it seals tight to keep moisture out.
Pair this detergent with a vinegar rinse for an all-natural fabric softener. Just add a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for super soft clothes.
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