I have been using my DIY laundry detergent so long, that I've forgotten what it is like to heft those big containers off the store shelves! I sure don't miss those days. I've tweaked the recipe some since I started making it. This week a friend asked me for my recipe and I realized I didn't actually have it written down. The one I was using wasn't updated with all my 'tweaking'.
Here is how I'm currently making laundry detergent powder:
3 bars laundry soap (Zote or Fels Naptha)
1 box Borax (76 oz.)
1 box Washing Soda (55 oz)
1 box Baking Soda (16 oz.)
2 containers of Oxygen Cleanser (Like OxiClean - or any generic brand) (2 lbs. - use more or less)
1 container of Epson Salt (about 2 lbs)
You'll need a large container to make this recipe. I mix mine into a clean 5-gallon bucket with a lid. Mix all ingredients together well with the exception of the bars of soap. You'll need to grate the soap with a hand grater or a chopper. I have an extra mini-chopper that I use for my laundry soap. I put chunks of the soap into it and go between chop and grind a few times. Once you have it grated into small pieces, mix it into your laundry detergent well. You may need to scoop your hands in up to the elbows to get this well mixed in a bucket. If you have a mixing tool that attaches to a hand drill, that works well too. Or if you're really strong you could pick the bucket up and shake/roll it around until everything is well mixed.
Once this is done you are ready to use your new detergent! I scoop some out into a small container that I leave out in my laundry room. I only go to the bucket when my small container gets empty. One idea is that you can save the container of OxiClean and use it to store the detergent in for use.
IMPORTANT:
Use 2-3 tablespoons per load. I use the little scoops out of baby formula or coffee - and use 2 small scoops in each load. Do not overuse it! Just a little is all you need. If you have an HE washer, put this powder into the washing machine tub first, then add your clothes. If you don't, you can add it first or on top of the clothes. This works in all water temperatures!
Note: The old recipe called for Fabric Crystals. Those are still available and you can use them in this recipe in place of the Epson Salt. However if you want to make your own you can do so. I like the smell of this laundry detergent as it is so I haven't been adding any oils to my Epson Salts. Read below if you want to mix your own.
DIY Laundry Fabric Crystals: Pour 2 lbs. Epson Salt into a large container. Add in 20 drops (more or less depending on how strong a scent you like). Mix well. Use this in the recipe above or just add to the washer with the detergent as you would store-bought Fabric Crystals. If you happen to have hard water, this is an excellent way to soften clothes and water at the same time!
There you have it folks! My updated method of making DIY Laundry Powder! Enjoy!
Kymber
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