DIY Powdered Laundry Detergent
One way we have cut some costs and opted for a healthier alternative is through making our own laundry detergent! I decided to try my hand at making my own as I am in my homesteading era and want to be as self sufficient as I can. My goal is rely as little as possible on the grocery stores as I am also learning to preserve my own food. I want to master the arts of canning, preserving and crafting as much of my own supplies as possible while we are apartment living so when we buy our home and can actually grow a garden, I will already be in the swing of things.
I also find that with the inflation of normal everyday supplies, everything is going up from food to laundry detergent. Making my own detergent has been on my list for some time so lets get into my recipe.
I opted for a powdered version, rather than liquid for personal preference. I may try the liquid version later but this recipe is powdered.
What You Need
1 bar Fels-Naptha (or Zote, grated finely & dried if possible)
1 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda (sodium carbonate)
1/2 cup Borax (optional if you have sensitive skin—can skip)
1 cup Baking Soda (for odor control + softness)
1 cup Oxygen Cleaner (I use OxiClean)
I’ve been using this mixture and my clothes come out clean and smell so fresh. I don’t personally use the essential oil as I think the clean soapy smell is just enough.
Mixing Instructions
Grate your soap bar into fine shreds.
If possible, let it air dry for 1–2 days and then crush it finer (rolling pin, hammer, or mortar & pestle). I used a ceramic mug to gentle roll it if you don’t have one of those tools.
Combine the soap with the washing soda, borax, baking soda, and oxygen cleaner.
Store in an airtight container.
How to Use
Light to normal loads: 2 tablespoons
Heavily soiled loads: 3 tablespoons
For cold water washes: dissolve detergent in a cup of hot water first, then add to your machine.
For extra freshness: add 1/2 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle (this also helps prevent soap buildup).
Optional:
A few drops of essential oil (lavender, lemon, or tea tree) mixed in if you like fragrance.
Be sure to start your washer and while the water is filling, add the powder mixture so it can dissolve and create a bath for your clothes, before adding the laundry in.
Why the Products Work
Soap (Fels-Naptha): Breaks down oils & dirt.
Washing Soda: Boosts cleaning, softens water.
Borax: Whitens, deodorizes, mild disinfectant.
Baking Soda: Neutralizes odors, softens fabric.
Oxygen Cleaner: Lifts stains, brightens whites.
Enzymes (optional): Break down food, sweat, blood, and other tough stains.