Homemade Powder Laundry Soap

OK, I know this post if backwards with the essential oil post...sorry! But anyway, I made some powder laundry soap today. I'm trying to slowly start making my own household cleaners and things and this is the first thing I'm trying. It's really easy to make and it costs less that buying detergent. It was about $8-$9 for these four items and I bought 2 bars of soap and I can make at least 2 batches, probably 3, out it. It looks as if it will last just as long as a bottle of laundry soap. I enjoy making my own things and saving a little money. Give a try, I bet you'll enjoy it too.

Here is the recipe:

Powder Laundry Soap

1 bar (4-6 oz.) Castill soap (I used Fels-Naptha), grated really small

2 cups Borax

2 cups washing soda

1 cup baking soda

essential oils (optional)

Combine first 4 ingredients. Add several drops of essential oils, if desired. Store in covered jar. Use 1/4-1/2 cup per load, depending on type of water and washing machine. This is a low-sudsing detergent. (For essential oil information see here.)
And this is what mine looks like all mixed up. I just put it in a couple of canning jars. Make sure you label them (which I have not done yet!! Shame on me!).

Oooohhh...I did not used essential oils in my detergent, but I just took the laundry out of the washing machine that have been washed with my new detergent and it smells really good! The bar soap I used has a lemony smell to it. Mmmm...can't wait to get it hung on the line!

Tip: Make sure you start the water on your washing machine and add the detergent FIRST and THEN add your clothes while the water is running. Otherwise you'll probably get dry clumps in your clothes...yuck!!

Try this at home and keep an eye out here for more cleaning product recipes!

Keeping Things Fun!

Jess