Today's post is all about how to make homemade laundry detergent. It's more natural. It's more frugal. Let's delve into it.
It's more Natural
By now, we all kind of know there are chemicals lurking in store bought goods. From home goods to food, there are things that most of us simply don't want in there. When it comes to commercial detergents, the story is no different.
In commercial detergents, there is an array of chemicals designed to do specific things. From pulling dirt from clothes to suspending oils to adding a "fresh scent" to laundry, there is a purpose to each chemical. And in some regards, I really respect the science behind laundry detergent production. Emily, over at Butter Believer, wrote a great article on the science of laundry detergent which you can read here. And while she supports using commercial detergents, I find the list of chemical ingredients overwhelming. Here you can see what Tide adds to their detergents, for example.
Just this year, I found I'm really sensitive to chemicals and I never really knew it. Programmed to just buy the same ol' products without really thinking twice, I've been purchasing home products that have actually done some damage to my body. I first started to notice the negative effects of home products on my hands this year. See why I switched dish soaps here.
It's more Frugal
Let's talk cost. This recipe for laundry detergent costs me 8 pennies a load.
Recipe calls for
1/2 cup washing soda = ~40z = $2.48
1/2 cup baking soda = ~40z = $0.4
3/4 cup Dr. Bonner's soap = ~6oz = $3.00
2 gallons water
Total cost for one recipe = $5.52
Recipe makes about 64 loads and using 1/2 cup a load = $.08 a load versus an average $.20 a load using commercial products ($19.99 for a thing of tide that does 96 loads = $.20/ load)
These numbers make me so happy to share with you! Haha, truly. I love when natural and sustainable living is not just the healthier choice, but also the more frugal choice! So great!
Ready for the recipe?
LAUNDRY DETERGENT RECIPE:
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup washing soda
Blend in warm water
Fill container with 2 gallons of water and add solution
Add 1/4 cup Castile soap
Mix
Separation is natural, mix before each use
Guys, thanks so much for being here and for reading. I really hope to spread encouragement around the internet that more natural and frugal living is within reach. We can transform our homes one step at time. Try this recipe and let me know what you think in the comments below! Have another detergent recipe you love? Let me know!
I hope this article blesses you. If so, please feel free to share it with your friends and/or leave me a comment down below! I’d love to hear from you!
Natalie
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