Creating your own laundry detergent at home is an excellent way to reduce your environmental impact while saving money. Plant-based laundry detergents are not only effective but also free from harsh chemicals, making them a safer choice for your family and the planet. Here are three diverse examples of homemade plant-based laundry detergent that you can try today!
This recipe uses coconut oil, which is known for its natural cleaning properties. It’s great for all types of fabrics and leaves your laundry smelling fresh.
To make this detergent, start by grating 1 bar of natural soap, such as Castile soap, into a bowl. Then, melt ½ cup of coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat until it’s liquefied. Combine the grated soap and melted coconut oil into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of washing soda and ½ cup of borax to the mixture and stir everything together until well blended. Once mixed, store your detergent in an airtight container. Use 2 tablespoons per load.
For a scented version, consider adding a few drops of essential oil, like lavender or eucalyptus, to give your laundry a delightful fragrance. You can also substitute the coconut oil with olive oil if you prefer.
This simple recipe uses common household ingredients known for their cleaning power. It works wonders on tough stains and odors, making it perfect for active households.
Start by mixing 1 cup of baking soda with 1 cup of white vinegar in a large bowl. The mixture will fizz, so be prepared for a bit of a reaction! Once the fizzing subsides, add 1 cup of liquid Castile soap and stir until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a large container with a lid and shake before each use. For a standard load, use ½ cup of this detergent.
You can enhance the stain-fighting power by adding ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide to the mixture. This is especially effective for white laundry or stubborn stains. Always test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the fabric.
This recipe is perfect for those who prefer a powdered detergent and want to customize their scent with essential oils. It’s effective for all laundry types and is easy to store.
To create this powder detergent, grate 1 bar of soap (like Dr. Bronner’s) into a bowl. Then, combine the grated soap with 1 cup of washing soda and 1 cup of borax in a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it’s a fine powder. Finally, add 10–15 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lemon or tea tree oil, for a fresh scent. Store the powder in a jar or airtight container. Use 2 tablespoons per load.
Feel free to experiment with different essential oils to create your unique scent. Tea tree oil is also a natural antibacterial agent, making it a great choice for laundry. You can also make a larger batch and store it for future use.