Everyone does laundry! It’s the one thing we all have in common. Did you know that conventional laundry detergents are toxic to humans and the environment?
The chemicals contained in conventional laundry detergents such as phosphates wash away into our waterways causing harm to aquatic organisms. Excessive phosphates in water bodies can lead to eutrophication—a process where increased nutrient levels stimulate the growth of algae.
They have cancer-causing properties for humans and can cause rashes and other skin irritants. The scents used in laundry detergents, fresheners, and softeners cause our bodies harm as well as they are typically a combination of various chemical compounds. These scents can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Individuals with respiratory sensitivities or conditions such as asthma may find that these fragrances can trigger symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing.
The packaging of laundry pods is often made of materials that are not easily biodegradable. The plastic casings can persist in the environment for a long time which contributes to plastic pollution.
There are several detergents available that contain natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, but in my experience, they are expensive for the amount you’re paying for so it’s a no-brainer to make homemade laundry detergent!
Also Read: Simple bathroom swaps for natural wellness
Making homemade detergent isn’t hard and you can feel good knowing exactly what’s in it – Plus you can use it in HE washers as well!
I have tried several homemade detergents and one day I realized that we use Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap to clean everything else in our house, so why not use it to clean our clothes as well? I can tell you that it works very well!
My homemade laundry detergents don’t contain borax. I know there isn’t any hard evidence to prove that it’s toxic but I’ve seen evidence of it being a skin irritant and causing rashes so I don’t use it.
Store your liquid detergent in leftover gallon milk jugs or vinegar bottles. Use wool dryer balls in the dryer to complete your natural laundry routine.
Homemade laundry detergent – Liquid
This liquid detergent uses salt, liquid castile soap, and baking soda. The salt prevents colors from fading and bleeding while the baking soda leaves your clothes brighter, fresher, and smelling clean.
Liquid Laundry Detergent
Ingredients
- 1 cup Liquid Castile soap any scent
- 1/3 cup Table salt
- 1 cup Baking soda
- 3 cups Water
- 5-10 drops Essential oil (any scent) optional
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat warm the water
- Add the baking soda and salt, mix until dissolved.
- Add the castile soap and mix well.
- Pour mixture into an old container or milk jug that has a lid.
- Add water until the jug is full, shake well.
Notes
Homemade laundry detergent – powder
This powder detergent uses only two ingredients, bar soap and washing soda. Washing soda softens the water and helps neutralize odors.
Powder Laundry Detergent
Ingredients
- 1 Bar Natural Soap Castile soap or any chemical free soap
- 1 Cup Washing Soda sodium carbonate
Instructions
- Use a cheese grater to finely grate the bar of natural soap. This creates a powder-like texture that will dissolve easily in water.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated soap and washing soda. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into an airtight container for storage.
- For each load of laundry, use 1-2 tablespoons of the homemade powder detergent. Adjust the quantity based on the size of your load and the level of dirtiness.
Notes
Thanks for sharing! I love that you share two different options… I also agree that the vinegar method isn’t the best. The vinegar is actually really hard on washing machines and dishwashers! I had read that before but I didn’t realize how true it was until I actually messed up my dishwasher within a few months of regularly using vinegar in there… oops.
This is such a wonderful post! I have switched to a clean brand of laundry detergent but would ultimately love to make my own! Thanks so much for sharing!
-Madi xo | http://www.everydaywithmadirae.com
Glad you found this helpful!
Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve been dying to switch to a more environmental detergent but have never known how.
My son has sensitive skin, so I’ve been using natural detergent as well! But how awesome that you can make your own!! I’ll have to try one of these recipes once mine runs out. 🙂
I love that you offered two different variations. I will definitely be trying number one since those are basic ingredients I can get and will have more uses to use my essential oil‘s!
Interesting post!!! Keep going 😍❤️
Why have I never thought of doing this before?? I have kids with eczema abs sensitive skin, this is great! Thanks fo le sharing.
This is awesome – thank you! I’m on my less waste journey myself and therefore I’m always on a lookout for great home recipes 🙂 Pinning to an adequate board on Pinterest 🙂 Btw – your blog is just beautiful!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this post 🙂
I have really sensitive skin and I like use natural ingredients in everything. I’ll have to try one of these recipes out.