DIY Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent Recipe
Ingredients:
- Castile Soap (liquid) – 1 cup
Why: A plant-based soap made from natural oils like olive or coconut oil. It's gentle on fabrics and skin.
- Washing Soda (sodium carbonate) – 1 cup
Why: A natural water softener and cleaner that helps remove dirt, stains, and odors.
- Baking Soda (sodium bicarbonate) – ½ cup
Why: A natural deodorizer and stain remover, gentle on fabrics.
Why: Boosts stain removal and softens water. Omit if you prefer a borax-free detergent.
- Essential Oils – 20-30 drops (optional)
Why: For fragrance and natural antibacterial properties. Lavender, lemon, tea tree, or eucalyptus are great choices.
Why: Helps to dissolve the powders and blend the ingredients.
Instructions:
Mix the dry ingredients:
In a large bowl or container, mix 1 cup of washing soda, ½ cup of baking soda, and ½ cup of borax (if using).
Add the liquid castile soap:
Slowly pour in 1 cup of liquid castile soap and stir to combine. The mixture may become thick or pasty.
Add hot water:
Gradually pour in 2-3 cups of hot water while stirring constantly. This will help dissolve the powders and create a smoother consistency.
Add essential oils:
If you'd like a fragrance, add 20-30 drops of your chosen essential oils. Lavender is calming, lemon is refreshing, and tea tree offers antibacterial properties.
Store your detergent:
Pour the detergent into an airtight container or jar. Shake well before each use as ingredients may settle.
How to Use:
- For regular loads: Use ¼ cup of the detergent.
- For larger or heavily soiled loads: Use ½ cup.
Benefits:
- Chemical-Free: Free from synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and harsh chemicals.
- Gentle on Skin: Perfect for sensitive skin or those avoiding toxins.
- Environmentally Friendly: Biodegradable and safe for septic systems.
- Cost-Effective: Made from affordable, easily accessible ingredients.
