Homemade laundry detergent in powdered form takes three ingredients: a bar of Fels Naptha soap, borax and super washing soda. All three are normally stocked in the laundry aisle of a supermarket, and the method is nothing more than grating the soap and mixing it with the two powders.
The recipe makes about 4 cups, enough for 32 to 64 loads at 1 to 2 tablespoons per load. For a finer, more uniform detergent that dissolves more readily, the mixture can be run through a food processor until powdery, though that step is optional. Keep the finished detergent in an airtight container; an empty, clean detergent tub is a convenient choice.
Borax and washing soda are strong alkaline cleaners, so label the container and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Homemade Laundry Detergent
Materials
- 1 bar about 5 ounces Fels Naptha laundry soap
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup super washing soda
Instructions
- Run the whole bar of Fels Naptha over the fine side of a box grater. It makes about 2 cups of shreds.
- In a large bowl, stir both powders (the super washing soda and the borax) into the soap shavings until evenly mixed.
- If a finer texture is wanted, pulse everything in a food processor until powdery, then let the dust settle for a minute before lifting the lid. This step is optional.
- Keep the detergent in a labeled container that seals airtight, and shake or stir it before each use.
- To wash, use 1 tablespoon for a regular load, including in high-efficiency (HE) machines, or 2 tablespoons for a large or heavily soiled load. Add it to the empty drum before the clothes.
