diy non-toxic laundry detergent

Switching to non- and low-toxic products for my home has been a priority lately, especially with something like laundry detergent that touches our skin every day. The one thing I haven’t been willing to give up though is good-smelling laundry, and after discovering this simple & cost effective recipe, I’m thrilled to say I don’t have to. Not only is it effective, it’s actually affordable, costing just 5 cents per load! This homemade laundry detergent is safe, simple, and surprisingly powerful for all types of laundry needs. Let’s dive into how to make your own non-toxic laundry detergent with just a few household ingredients!

Why Make Your Own Laundry Detergent?

Most store-bought detergents contain artificial fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, not to mention add to our exposure to unnecessary toxins. By making your own detergent, you’re in control of what goes into your laundry, which is especially important for families with little ones or sensitive skin. Plus, this recipe is budget-friendly and eco-friendly, saving you money and helping you reduce waste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient and how it contributes to this DIY laundry detergent:

• Baking Soda – This natural cleaner helps neutralize odors and soften the water, boosting the detergent’s effectiveness.

• Washing Soda– Washing soda acts as a natural cleanser that cuts through stains, making it a powerful laundry booster.

• Epsom Salts– Epsom salts work to soften fabrics naturally, giving your clothes a fresh, soft feel.

• Sea Salt – Sea salt gently exfoliates and helps remove grime from fabrics without harsh chemicals.

• A Glass Jar– Store your powdered soap in an airtight glass jar for best results!

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Switching to non- and low-toxic products for my home has been a priority lately, especially with something like laundry detergent that touches our skin every day. The one thing I haven’t been willing to give up though is good-smelling laundry, and after discovering this simple & cost effective recipe, I’m thrilled to say I don’t have to. Not only is it effective, it’s actually affordable, costing just 5 cents per load! This homemade laundry detergent is safe, simple, and surprisingly powerful for all types of laundry needs. Let’s dive into how to make your own non-toxic laundry detergent with just a few household ingredients!

Why Make Your Own Laundry Detergent?

Most store-bought detergents contain artificial fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, not to mention add to our exposure to unnecessary toxins. By making your own detergent, you’re in control of what goes into your laundry, which is especially important for families with little ones or sensitive skin. Plus, this recipe is budget-friendly and eco-friendly, saving you money and helping you reduce waste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient and how it contributes to this DIY laundry detergent:

• Baking Soda – This natural cleaner helps neutralize odors and soften the water, boosting the detergent’s effectiveness.

• Washing Soda – Washing soda acts as a natural cleanser that cuts through stains, making it a powerful laundry booster.

• Sea Salt – Sea salt gently exfoliates and helps remove grime from fabrics without harsh chemicals.

• Epsom Salts – Epsom salts work to soften fabrics naturally, giving your clothes a fresh, soft feel.

If you need extra dirt & grime removing power for the occasional load, I recommend adding a surfactant, like a tablespoon of castile soap or a small squirt of dish soap! These will help lift grease and clean a little bit more efficiently! 

five-ingredient non-toxic laundry soap

Active Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Yield: 100 regular loads

Cost: ~$4.85

Equipment

• 1 glass storage container (air-tight)

• 1 tablespoon measure (I use a metal one)

• 1 silicone spatula

Materials

• 3 cups baking soda - to soften & clean

• 3 cups washing soda - to clean

• 1/2cup fine sea salt - to loosen dirt & freshen

• 1cup epsom salt - to soften & freshen

• 40-50 drops essential oils - your favorite scent!

Instructions

• Add all the powder ingredients to container.

• Add in the essential oils & stir or shake to combine.

• Store in airtight container.

• Use 1 Tablespoon per regular load, 2 for heavy or soiled loads.

• For added softness, use 1/4 cup vinegar in the fabric softener compartment in your washing machine.

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