DIY Simple Laundry Detergent

Keywords: Healthy Household Cleaners, Healthy Laundry Detergent, DIY Cleaning Products, Eco-friendly, Budget-friendly

Updated: 06/19/2023

In today's world, where health, environmental concerns, and rising costs are at the forefront of our minds, finding ways to reduce our carbon footprint and save money has become increasingly important. One area where we can make a difference is in our laundry routine. Commercial laundry detergents often contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and our health. However, there's a simple and affordable solution: homemade laundry detergent. In this article, we explore the benefits of making your own laundry detergent, share our easy recipe, and provide some tips for optimal results.

Benefits of Homemade Laundry Detergent

1. Environmental Friendliness: Many store-bought laundry detergents contain chemicals, phosphates, and synthetic fragrances that are harmful to human health and can harm aquatic life as well as contribute to water pollution. Homemade detergents, on the other hand, are typically made with natural ingredients that are safe for you and the environment.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Making your own laundry detergent can be incredibly budget-friendly. The ingredients needed are often inexpensive and can last for multiple batches, saving you money in the long run. Plus, you have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your detergent.

3. Customizability: Homemade laundry detergent allows you to tailor the recipe to your needs. You can add your preferred scents or opt for unscented versions, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.

For our research we used the database provided by EWG - Environmental Working Group.

EWG is a world-renowned team of scientists, policy experts, lawyers, and data experts that test and grade products to determine effect on human and environmental health. EWG works tirelessly to improve public health and educate consumers.

EWG uses a simple to understand rating system based on an individual products risk to health or the environment:

Most household cleaners contain chemicals and substances that are toxic to humans, animals, and the environment. Tide Detergent, one of the most popular laundry detergents in the U.S. contains over 80 different ingredients! Not surprisingly, Tide Laundry Detergent received an F by EWG with at least 20 different chemicals of at least a moderate concern to human and environmental health. Click here for EWG’s complete review of Tide Laundry Detergent.

Click here to support EWG’s fight to improve public health.

When it comes to DIY products, simplicity is key! Our recipe contains only four ingredients.

Our DIY Simple Laundry Detergent

Ingredients:

• 1 & 1/2 cups - Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) - To clean & soften

• 1 & 1/2 cups - Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate) - To clean & soften

• 1/2 cup - Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate) - To soften

• 1/4 cup - Sea Salt - To clean & freshen

Mix all ingredients together thoroughly, be sure to break up any clumps.

Store your detergent in an airtight container.

All ingredients listed above received an A rating by EWG.

*If you prefer a scented product, you can add 20-25 drops of an essential oil of your choosing. Be careful as certain oils can cause skin irritation.

Directions for Use:

1. Simply apply 1-2 tablespoon of the powder onto each load of laundry.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Pre-treat stains prior to washing. For tough stains use a stain remover or use a paste with washing soda and water prior to washing.

• Cold water wash. Homemade detergents work effectively in cold water, saving energy and reducing fading and shrinkage of clothing.

• Proper storage. Store your detergent in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.

• Test your mix before use on expensive items...

*As with any cleaning product, do not ingest! Exercise caution around the mouth or eyes when using product and keep out of reach of children and pets.