Transitioning to a more natural lifestyle often starts with the small things—what we eat, what we put on our skin, and even what we use to clean our clothes. One of my favorite—and simplest—swaps has been switching to homemade laundry detergent. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also cost-effective and much gentler on both our skin and the environment.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the ingredient lists on commercial laundry detergents, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t need to be a chemist to make your own safe, effective laundry soap at home. Let me walk you through exactly how to do it—both in powder and liquid form—along with the reasons why you might want to consider making the switch.
Why Bother Making Your Own Laundry Detergent?
Most conventional laundry detergents are packed with a cocktail of chemicals: sulfates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, and sometimes even petroleum by-products. These can trigger skin sensitivities, respiratory issues, and in some cases, have been linked to more serious health concerns. The fragrance alone—usually made from dozens of undisclosed chemicals—can be a major irritant.
By making your own detergent, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring your laundry routine is free of harsh additives. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and surprisingly quick to make.
The Basic Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of DIY laundry detergent is its simplicity. You only need three main ingredients, all of which are easy to find at most grocery stores or online:
- Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate): A powerful natural cleaner that helps break down stains and neutralize odors.
- Borax: A naturally occurring mineral that boosts cleaning power and acts as a gentle disinfectant.
- Natural Bar Soap: Options like Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap, Ivory, or even homemade soap bars work wonderfully.
Optional additions: You can also add a few tablespoons of baking soda for extra odor-fighting power or a few drops of essential oils for a light natural scent.
How to Make Powdered Laundry Detergent
If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss recipe, powdered detergent is the way to go. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- 1 bar of natural soap
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 cup borax
Instructions:
- Grate the Bar Soap: Use a cheese grater or a food processor to finely shred the soap.
- Mix: In a large bowl, combine the grated soap with the washing soda and borax.
- Store: Transfer your mixture into a sealed glass jar or airtight container.
To Use:
- Add 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup of the powder directly to your washing machine per load.
This mixture works well in both standard and high-efficiency (HE) machines, though it’s always a good idea to check your washer’s manual just in case.
Making Liquid Laundry Detergent
For those who prefer liquid detergent, you can easily transform the same ingredients into a concentrated soap:
Ingredients:
- 1 bar of natural soap
- 2 cups washing soda
- 2 cups borax
- 5 gallons of hot water
Instructions:
- Dissolve the Soap: Grate the soap, place it in a large pot with 2 quarts of hot water, and heat until fully dissolved.
- Mix: Fill a 5-gallon bucket with 4.5 gallons of hot water. Stir in the washing soda and borax until completely dissolved.
- Combine: Add the dissolved soap mixture to the bucket and stir thoroughly.
- Rest: Cover and let sit overnight. The mixture will thicken into a gel-like consistency.
- Store: Stir well before transferring into smaller containers for easier use.
To Use:
- Use ½ to 1 cup per load, depending on load size and soil level.
Soap vs. Detergent: A Quick Note
It’s important to understand that homemade laundry “soap” is technically different from commercial detergent. Most store-bought detergents contain surfactants that perform well in all water types and temperatures, while natural soap might leave buildup in certain washers or water conditions over time.
If you notice your clothes becoming dingy or your washer struggling, you might try adding a small amount of Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds to your wash. It’s technically a detergent but still gentle and biodegradable.
Don’t Want to Make It? Try These Natural Brands
Although making your own detergent can be rewarding, it’s not always practical. Fortunately, there are several excellent natural laundry options available:
- Truly Free: My personal favorite—smells amazing, works on tough stains, and comes in eco-friendly concentrated refill packets.
- Emma Eco Me: EWG-rated and available in lovely scents.
- Planet Natural Detergent: Affordable and eco-conscious.
These brands offer a great compromise if you’re short on time but still want to avoid harsh chemicals.
Other Natural Laundry Tips
While you’re upgrading your laundry routine, consider these simple swaps:
- Fabric Softener Alternative: Use 1 cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle. It softens clothes without leaving residue.
- Natural Stain Remover: Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and a little Sal Suds can tackle tough stains.
- Water Softening: A handful of Epsom salt can help soften hard water and prevent soap scum buildup.
The Bottom Line
Switching to homemade laundry detergent is one of the easiest ways to take a big step toward a more natural home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a powerful, effective cleaner that’s gentle on your family and the environment. Whether you go the DIY route or choose a trusted natural brand, your skin, your health, and even your wallet will thank you.
Have you tried making your own laundry detergent? I’d love to hear about your experiences and any personal tips you’ve discovered!
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