Homemade Laundry Soap – try your hand at making laundry soap using some basic items. (Homemade Laundry Detergent)
Homemade Laundry Soap
This method is said to last around 400 loads of laundry. Actual results may vary. This cost us under $25 plus tax. (See below)
Items needed:
- Grater (get one cheap at the Dollar Tree)
- Measuring Cup (use can use the lid from sent beads or the measuring cup inside OxiClean Powder)
- Container or Bucket
- Laundry Soap (Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar & Stain Remover) – 2 bars (5 Oz each = 10 Oz)
- Baking Soda (2 Lbs.) – we got 4 lb box and used half of it
- Borax (4 Lb.)
- Washing Soda (55 Oz)
- Laundry Scent Beads (we used Arm & Hammer Odor Blasters) Approx 14 Oz (optional) we used ½ of a 38 Oz – you can use the scent and brand you like. If you want less scent you could divide this up in thirds)
- OxiClean Powder 2 lbs or so (optional for added cleaning boost)
Learn more about these items and the benefits of making your own laundry soap (continue reading this blog post – see below)
The Scoop and container we had. This cost us under $25 plus tax. Surprising the brand name baking soda was cheaper than the generic.
I suggest you wear gloves when handling these items.
Do not use items you have allergic reactions to!
First grade the two bars of laundry soap. Keep in mind to watch your fingers on grating the bar of laundry soap.
Then add all of the other powders, scent beads and mix well.
Now use in your laundry washes!
FYI – The Fels-Naptha smells good too! You can even keep the wrapper and put in your clothes drawer as a clothing freshener. (A way to reuse the packaging.)
It took my wife and I around 15 mins to grate the two bars of laundry soap and maybe a total of 5 minutes to mix in the rest of the items together. So around a total of 20 minutes.
This homemade laundry soap recipe took up around ½ of a 13 quart container.
See this TikTok video that inspired my wife to have us give it a try this DIY laundry soap recipe. Thank you thefrugaldreamer for sharing your video.
We made our first batch on March 11, 2023. Stay tuned or come back as I update when we run out. Our first wash came out clean. We didn’t notice any residue like with most powder laundry detergent usually do.
It costs us under $11 for brand name Tide liquid laundry soap. That one does around 89 loads. So if we bought two to total around the same amount spent would do around 178 loads. This recipe is said to do around 400 loads. So this recipe you get more loads for less money.
Check out National Laundry Day!
Using two containers of tide gets us around 178 loads for about $22 that is 12.3¢ per load. Now to the homemade laundry detergent gets us around 400 loads for around $25 that is 6.2¢ per load. Yes around the same price, but a lot more loads and around half the price per load.
Thus saving you money! We all like to save money every where we can. Especially in today’s economy. With that said prices of these products are subject to change, but these were the prices as of March of 2023.
Our first load, the laundry smelt good. It even smelt better than the leading brand.
Prices are subject to change especially in this economy.
Homemade Laundry Soap
Equipment
- Grater (get one cheap at the Dollar Tree)
- Container or Bucket
Materials
- Laundry Soap Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar & Stain Remover – 2 bars (5 Oz each = 10 Oz)
- Baking Soda 2 Lbs. – we got 4 lb box and used half of it
- Borax 4 Lb.
- Washing Soda 55 Oz
- Laundry Scent Beads we used Arm & Hammer Odor Blasters Approx 14 Oz (optional) we used ½ of a 38 Oz – you can use the scent and brand you like. If you want less scent you could divide this up in thirds)
- OxiClean Powder 2 lbs or so optional for added cleaning boost
Instructions
- First grade the two bars of laundry soap. Keep in mind to watch your fingers on grating the bar of laundry soap.
- Then add all of the other powders, scent beads and mix well.
- Now use in your laundry washes!
Notes
All of the Supplies for DIY laundry detergent
The Scoop and container we had. This cost us under $25 plus tax. Surprising the brand name baking soda was cheaper than the generic. I suggest you wear gloves when handling these items.
Benefits of homemade laundry detergent
Making your own homemade laundry soap mix can offer several benefits, including:
- Cost-effective: Homemade laundry soap is often less expensive than commercial laundry detergents. By making your own mix, you can save money on your laundry expenses.
- Customizable: You can customize your laundry soap mix to suit your needs and preferences. You can adjust the ingredients to make a detergent that works best for your washing machine and laundry needs.
- Environmentally friendly: Homemade laundry soap is often made with natural and eco-friendly ingredients. This reduces the use of harsh chemicals that can harm the environment.
- Non-toxic: Commercial laundry detergents often contain harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation and other health issues. Making your own laundry soap ensures that you are using a non-toxic product on your clothes.
- Long-lasting: Homemade laundry soap mix can be made in bulk and can last for a long time. This reduces the frequency of trips to the store and the amount of packaging waste generated.
- Fun and creative: Making your own laundry soap mix can be a fun and creative activity. You can experiment with different scents and ingredients to make a unique detergent that suits your personal style.
Here are some additional benefits of making your own homemade laundry soap mix:
- Easy to make: Homemade laundry soap is easy to make, and you can usually do it with simple ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store.
- No preservatives: Since you’re making your own laundry soap, you can avoid using preservatives that are commonly found in commercial laundry detergents.
- No artificial fragrances: Most commercial laundry detergents contain artificial fragrances, which can cause allergies or irritations. By making your own laundry soap, you can avoid these artificial fragrances and opt for natural scents instead.
- Safe for sensitive skin: Homemade laundry soap is gentle and safe for sensitive skin, as it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation or allergies.
- Sustainable: Making your own laundry soap is a sustainable option as it reduces packaging waste and the environmental impact associated with the production and transportation of commercial laundry detergents.
- Versatile: You can use homemade laundry soap mix for a variety of cleaning tasks, such as washing clothes, cleaning carpets, and cleaning other household items. This makes it a versatile and multi-purpose product.
Be sure to check out the laundry prayer which inclues a free printable of it.
What is borax?
Borax, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate, is a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. It has the chemical formula Na2B4O7·10H2O.
Borax is commonly used as a household cleaner, laundry booster, and insecticide. It can also be used in the production of glass, ceramics, and enamel, as well as in the manufacturing of various chemicals, fertilizers, and fire retardants.
While borax is generally considered safe for most household uses, it should be handled with care, as it can cause skin and eye irritation and should not be ingested in large amounts. It is also important to note that borax is toxic to some animals, such as cats and dogs, and should be kept out of their reach.
What is baking soda?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical compound that is commonly used in baking as a leavening agent. It is a white, crystalline powder that is slightly alkaline, with a pH of about 8.3. When baking soda is combined with an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough or batter to rise and become light and fluffy.
Aside from its use in baking, baking soda has a wide range of other applications. It is often used as a household cleaner, deodorizer, and stain remover. It can also be used as a toothpaste or mouthwash to help neutralize odors and freshen breath. In medicine, baking soda can be used as an antacid to help alleviate heartburn and indigestion.
What is washing soda?
Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate, is a chemical compound that is commonly used as a water softener, detergent booster, and cleaning agent. It is a white, odorless powder that is highly alkaline and can be corrosive if used improperly.
Washing soda is typically made from the ashes of plants that are high in sodium carbonate, such as kelp or certain types of grasses. The ashes are mixed with water and filtered to remove impurities, and the resulting solution is then evaporated to form solid sodium carbonate.
Washing soda is often used in laundry detergents to help remove stains and odors, as well as in cleaning products for removing grease and grime. It can also be used as a water softener to help prevent mineral buildup in pipes and appliances. However, it is important to handle washing soda with care, as it can irritate the skin and eyes and should not be ingested.
What is us Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar & Stain Remover?
Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar & Stain Remover is a type of laundry soap that has been used for over 100 years to remove tough stains and clean laundry. It is a bar soap that can be used for pre-treating stains or added to a load of laundry to boost cleaning power.
Fels-Naptha is known for its ability to remove stains like grease, oil, blood, and grass, as well as being effective at removing odors from clothes. It can be used on both white and colored fabrics, but it is important to check the label of the clothing to ensure that it is safe to use on the fabric.
Fels-Naptha can be found in most grocery stores or online, and it is often used by those who prefer a more natural and cost-effective alternative to commercial laundry detergents.
What is laundry scent beads?
Laundry scent beads, also known as laundry scent boosters or fabric scent boosters, are small beads made of fragrance and other ingredients that are added to laundry during the washing process to enhance the scent of clothing, towels, and other fabrics. They are typically added to the washing machine along with detergent and can be used with both standard and high-efficiency washing machines.
Laundry scent beads come in a variety of scents, including floral, fruity, and fresh scents, and can provide long-lasting fragrance to your laundry. They are often used to mask unpleasant odors on clothes or to add a pleasant scent to freshly washed linens.
It’s important to note that laundry scent beads are not necessary for clean clothes and are purely for adding fragrance. Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to the ingredients in these products, so it’s always a good idea to check the ingredients and test a small amount before using them regularly.
What is OxiClean?
OxiClean powder has gained popularity as a powerful stain remover and laundry aid. Composed of oxygen-based bleach, this cleaning agent is renowned for its ability to tackle a variety of stains, from stubborn food spills to deeply embedded dirt. The oxygen bleach works by breaking down stains into smaller particles, making it easier for them to be lifted from fabrics during the washing process. This stain-fighting power, combined with its fabric-safe formula, has positioned OxiClean as a trusted choice for individuals looking to maintain the vibrancy and cleanliness of their clothing.
One of the key advantages of OxiClean powder is its versatility. Beyond laundry use, it can be employed as a general-purpose cleaner for surfaces such as tile and grout. Its oxygen-cleaning action makes it effective at brightening and revitalizing various materials around the home. Users appreciate its multipurpose nature, finding value in its ability to address a range of cleaning needs with a single product.
To use OxiClean powder effectively in laundry, individuals often mix it with water to create a pre-soak solution for stained garments. Alternatively, it can be added directly to the washing machine along with regular detergent. This dual application method provides flexibility and ensures that OxiClean can be seamlessly integrated into different laundry routines, making it a convenient and efficient choice for those seeking reliable stain removal and fabric care.
Be sure to recycle the cardboard and the plastic!
How to clean a dirty pan using vinegar, baking soda and lemons
What is your experience in doing this?
Feel free to share about your experience and any tips, tricks or hacks for this DIY laundry display mix.
This post does use Amazon affiliate links.
We did forget to keep track of how long it lasted, but it lasted a long while. We ran out and never made a second batch, for a surprise, I made us another batch in December 9, 2023. Maybe this time, I will remember.
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First published March 13, 2023. Last updated or reposted on December 9, 2023.
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