Detergents made from soap are effective at cleaning clothes, but they’re also harsh on fabrics and skin. Homemade detergent powders are gentle enough for delicate items like silk and wool, and they won’t leave any residue behind.
Ingredients Needed.
There are two main ingredients needed to make homemade laundry detergent powder: Borax and washing soda. Both of these ingredients are available at grocery stores and online retailers.
Mixing Instructions.
1) Put borax into a large bowl. 2) Add washing soda and mix well. 3) Pour hot water into the mixture until it’s just under half full. 4) Stir with a spoon until everything is dissolved. 5) Let sit overnight. 6) Strain out the solids and pour liquid back into container. 7) Store in an airtight container. 8) Use as directed.
Storing Instructions.
Borax is available at any grocery store. Washing soda is available at some stores and online. Hot water should be available at any home.
Using Instructions.
1) Put washing soda into a large bowl. 2) Add hot water until the mixture reaches a temperature of 120 degrees F (49 C). 3) Stir the solution with a spoon until the washing soda dissolves completely. 4) Pour the solution through a strainer into a glass jar. 5) Repeat steps 1-4 twice more. 6) Store the solution in an airtight container. 7) Use one teaspoon per load of laundry. 8) If you prefer, you can use baking soda instead of washing soda.
