How to make your own homemade laundry detergent

Let’s talk laundry. While it’s not the most glamorous household task, it’s something we all do. But have you ever considered what’s in your laundry detergent? Those long, unpronounceable chemical names on the back of a detergent bottle could be doing more harm than good—for you, your wallet, and the planet. Fortunately, our expert domestic cleaners are here with this step-by-step guide on how to make your own homemade laundry detergent. Ready to give your clothes the TLC they deserve? Let’s get started.

Benefits of homemade laundry detergent

Making your own laundry detergent is more than just a trendy DIY project—it’s a game-changer for your home and the environment. The perks extend beyond the satisfaction of creating something yourself. Let’s unpack why switching to homemade laundry detergent is a brilliant move for you, your family, and even your bank account.

Environmental Impact

Did you know that traditional detergents are a major pollutant? They contain phosphates and other chemicals that wash into waterways, harming aquatic ecosystems. Many are packaged in plastic that contributes to waste, which takes centuries to decompose.

Homemade detergent helps you ditch the waste and opt for natural ingredients. Baking soda, borax, and castile soap are biodegradable, and you can store your creations in reusable containers. It’s a simple switch that aligns your household with eco-conscious living.

Cost Savings

Laundry expenses can pile up, especially for large families or households with frequent wash cycles. Homemade laundry detergent helps you save money in several ways:

1. Affordable Ingredients
   Key ingredients like washing soda, baking soda, and borax are inexpensive and readily available. You can buy them in bulk for even greater savings.
2. Long-lasting Supply
   A single batch of homemade detergent often lasts weeks or even months, depending on your usage. This means fewer trips to the store and more money in your pocket.
3. No Need for Extras
   Homemade detergent is so effective that you won’t need to spend extra on fabric softeners or stain removers. For example, baking soda naturally softens clothes, while borax tackles tough stains.

Customisation and Control

When you make your own laundry detergent, you become the master of your laundry routine. Say goodbye to generic options and hello to tailored solutions:

1. Choose Your Scent
   Tired of overly strong, synthetic-smelling detergents? Homemade recipes let you pick your favourite essential oils for a subtle, natural scent. Think lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for freshness, or citrus for energy.
2. Adjust the Strength
   Got a pile of muddy sports clothes? Increase the amount of washing soda in your recipe for an extra cleaning boost. Washing delicates? Dial it back for a gentler mix.
3. Eco-friendly Boosters
   You can add extras like white vinegar for fabric softening or hydrogen peroxide for whitening, all while staying environmentally friendly.

How to make homemade laundry detergent: Ingredients for your DIY recipe

When it comes to laundry, what you put in your detergent makes all the difference. Homemade detergents are free from the harsh chemicals found in commercial products, relying instead on natural, effective ingredients that you can trust. Here’s a deeper dive into the key components you’ll need and why they’re absolute game-changers for your laundry routine.

Baking soda: The deodorising dynamo

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) isn’t just for baking cakes; it’s a versatile cleaning agent with powerful properties. It works wonders in homemade detergent, and here’s why:

• Odour Neutraliser: Baking soda tackles odours at their source, making it ideal for gym clothes, pet blankets, or any fabric that needs freshening up.
• Softens Water: Hard water can reduce the effectiveness of detergent. Baking soda acts as a mild water softener, ensuring your detergent can do its job effectively.
• Gentle on Fabrics: Unlike some commercial detergents, baking soda cleans without being abrasive, protecting delicate materials like wool or silk.

Pro Tip: Sprinkle a bit of baking soda directly into the washing drum for an extra boost against tough smells.

Borax: The stain-busting hero

Borax, or sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used for generations in laundry routines. It’s a must-have ingredient for its multifunctional benefits:

• Stain Removal: Borax helps lift stubborn stains, from grass marks to food spills. Its alkaline nature breaks down acidic stains effectively.
• Water Softening: Hard water makes soap less effective, but borax binds to the minerals in hard water, enhancing your detergent’s power.
• Whitening Agent: It’s a gentle alternative to bleach, making whites look brighter without the harshness of chlorine.

Did You Know? Borax has antibacterial properties, making it perfect for sanitising heavily soiled clothes, like nappies or towels.

Castile soap: The all-natural cleaner

Castile soap is a vegetable-based soap that’s free from synthetic ingredients. Made from olive oil or coconut oil, it’s one of the gentlest and most effective soaps you can use:

• Natural Cleanser: Castile soap effectively lifts dirt and grease without the need for synthetic surfactants.
• Non-Toxic: Safe for sensitive skin and hypoallergenic, it’s a great choice for baby clothes or anyone prone to irritation.
• Versatile: Available in liquid or bar form, castile soap works beautifully in both powdered and liquid detergent recipes.

Essential oils

Essential oils are nature’s way of adding a little luxury to your laundry. They provide natural fragrance and antibacterial properties without relying on synthetic perfumes.

Popular essential oils for laundry:

• Lavender: Calming and relaxing.
• Lemon: Fresh and zesty.
• Tea Tree: Antibacterial and refreshing.

Tip: Add 10-15 drops of your chosen oil to the detergent for a subtle, long-lasting scent.

Washing soda: The heavy-duty cleaner

Washing soda (sodium carbonate) is baking soda’s tougher cousin. It’s highly alkaline, making it a powerful ingredient for tackling grease and grime:

• Deep Cleaning Power: Washing soda breaks down tough stains like oil, grease, and sweat, making it perfect for heavily soiled clothes.
• Water Softening: Like baking soda and borax, it neutralises hard water, allowing your detergent to lather better.
• De-greasing Agent: It’s especially effective for cleaning work uniforms or kitchen towels that see a lot of grease.

Safety Tip: Washing soda is strong, so wear gloves when handling it directly to avoid irritation.

Recipe for Bar Soap Detergent

Ingredients:

• 1 bar of castile soap (grated)
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1 cup baking soda
• ½ cup borax
• 10 drops of essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Castile Soap
  Grate the castile soap using a cheese grater or food processor. Aim for fine, uniform shreds to ensure the soap dissolves easily in water. If you live in a colder climate or plan to wash in cold water, use a food processor to create an even finer powder.Pro Tip: Freeze the soap bar for 15 minutes before grating. This makes it firmer and easier to handle.
• Mix the Dry Ingredients
  In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated soap, washing soda, baking soda, and borax. Use a whisk or gloved hands to mix thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.Tip for Even Mixing: Layer the ingredients in small amounts and stir after each addition. This prevents clumping and makes mixing easier.
• Add Essential Oils (Optional)
  For a fragrant touch, add 10 drops of your favourite essential oil. Lavender is perfect for a calming scent, while lemon or tea tree oil works well for a fresh, antibacterial boost. Mix again to ensure the oils are evenly dispersed.
• Store in an Airtight Container
  Transfer the mixture into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic tub with a tight-fitting lid. Proper storage prevents moisture from clumping the detergent and keeps it fresh for months.Labelling Tip: Write the recipe and usage instructions on the container. This is especially handy if you plan to share the detergent with others or make multiple batches.
• Ready to Use
  Use 1–2 tablespoons of detergent per load, depending on the size and soil level. For heavily soiled clothes or larger loads, you can use up to 3 tablespoons. Sprinkle the detergent directly into the drum for best results, especially if using a high-efficiency (HE) washing machine.

Recipe for liquid laundry detergent

Ingredients:

• 1 bar of castile soap (grated)
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1 cup borax
• 4 litres of water
• Essential oils (optional)

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the Soap
   Heat 1 litre of water in a large pot over medium heat. Gradually add the grated soap, stirring constantly until it’s completely dissolved.
2. Mix the Ingredients
   Once the soap is fully melted, add the washing soda and borax. Stir continuously until the powders dissolve completely. The mixture will thicken slightly.
3. Dilute the Mixture
   Remove the pot from heat and pour the soap mixture into a large container using a funnel. Add 3 litres of cold water to the container, stirring well to combine.
4. Add Essential Oils (Optional)
   For a pleasant scent, add 10–20 drops of essential oil. Stir or shake the container to distribute the fragrance evenly.
5. Cool and Store
   Allow the detergent to cool completely before sealing the container. Shake the mixture gently before each use, as natural ingredients may separate over time.

Storage and usage tips

Proper storage ensures your homemade laundry detergent stays effective and safe.

• Airtight Containers: Keep powder detergent in glass jars or plastic tubs with lids to prevent clumping.
• Shake It Up: For liquid detergent, ingredients may separate over time. Shake the container before each use.
• Label Your Mixtures: Write down the recipe and usage instructions on the container.

Pro Tip: Store detergents in a cool, dry place and keep them out of reach of children.

Additional Tips for Eco-Friendly Laundry

If you’re diving into homemade laundry, why not go all-in on eco-friendly habits? Here are some bonus tips:

• Cold Washes: Save energy by washing clothes in cold water.
• Line Drying: Reduce electricity use and give your clothes a fresh outdoor scent by air-drying.
• Rewash Smelly Items: Sometimes, natural detergents might need a second round for heavily soiled clothes.
• DIY Fabric Softener: Mix white vinegar with a few drops of essential oil for a natural alternative.

Switching to homemade laundry detergent is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. It’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and completely customisable to your needs. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few household ingredients. So, what are you waiting for? Turn your laundry routine into a DIY adventure. Your clothes (and the planet) will thank you!

And when life gets a little too hectic, Wecasa’s cleaning experts are always here to save the day. With just a few clicks, we’ll take care of your laundry so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a well-deserved break. We’re here to make your life easier—one load of laundry at a time!