Homemade Laundry Detergent (Powder Recipe, HE-Safe)

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Homemade laundry detergent is one of those old-fashioned money savers that still makes sense. A batch takes about 15 minutes, costs a fraction of store-bought, and lasts for months. This powder version uses just three ingredients, works in cold or warm water, and is low-sudsing, so it’s fine for high-efficiency machines in small amounts.

What you need

• 1 bar soap (4 to 5 oz), such as Fels-Naptha, Zote or a pure castile bar, finely grated
• 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate, found in the laundry aisle; not the same as baking soda)
• 1 cup baking soda
• Optional: 1/2 cup oxygen bleach powder for brightening, and 20 to 30 drops of essential oil for scent
• A box grater or food processor, a large bowl, and an airtight jar or tub

How to make it

1. Grate the bar soap as finely as you can. A food processor with the grating disk makes it fast; pulse it again with the blade for an even finer powder.
2. In a large bowl, stir together the grated soap, washing soda and baking soda (and oxygen bleach, if using).
3. Add essential oil a few drops at a time and stir well to break up clumps.
4. Store in an airtight container with a scoop. Label it and keep it out of reach of children.

How much to use

• Regular load: 1 tablespoon
• Large or very dirty load: 2 tablespoons
• HE machines: 1 tablespoon, added directly to the drum before the clothes
• Cold water: dissolve the powder in a cup of hot water first so it doesn’t leave specks

Tips

• Pre-treat stains with a little dish soap or a stain stick; homemade powder doesn’t have the enzymes of commercial detergents.
• Add 1/2 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural softener.
• Hard water? Use a little extra washing soda, and run a hot cleaning cycle in the machine once a month.
• Wear gloves when mixing; washing soda can irritate skin and eyes.

Is it right for your family?

Homemade detergent works great for everyday loads. If anyone in your house has very sensitive skin, try a small batch first, and check your washer’s manual, since some manufacturers recommend commercial HE detergent only.

FAQ

Why not borax?

Many families prefer to skip borax. This recipe cleans well without it.

Will it fade colors?

Not with the basic recipe. Oxygen bleach brightens whites; test colors first.

How long does it last?

A batch does about 40 to 64 loads and keeps indefinitely if stored dry.

You might also like:

• 15 Easy Homemade Cleaners
• DIY Foaming Hand Soap
• How to Manage Household Chores