Living on a homestead, I’ve learned that simplicity and self-reliance are key to thriving. Whether I’m growing my own vegetables or crafting everyday essentials like soap, every small step toward sustainability counts. One of my favorite projects is making my own laundry soap. It’s a cost-effective, eco-friendly way to care for clothes, without relying on commercial products full of chemicals and plastic packaging. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy, and I can whip up a batch that lasts for months, using ingredients I trust. For any homesteader or DIY enthusiast, making laundry soap is a small but powerful way to live more sustainably and take control of what we use in our homes. Let me show you how!
1. Gather Your Ingredients
To make your own laundry soap, you only need three basic ingredients: washing soda, borax, and a bar of soap (preferably a mild, natural one like Castile or Fels-Naptha). Washing soda helps break down grease and grime, while borax softens water and boosts cleaning power. The bar soap is what provides the suds, but don’t worry—your laundry won’t overflow with bubbles. These ingredients are easy to find in most grocery or hardware stores, and they’re all non-toxic.
2. Grate and Prepare the Soap
Start by grating the bar of soap with a cheese grater or food processor. You want the pieces to be as fine as possible so they dissolve easily in the wash. If you’re using a more natural soap like Castile, it will create a low-sudsing formula that works well even in high-efficiency (HE) machines. Once grated, you’ll mix it with the borax and washing soda, but for now, just set the grated soap aside in a bowl.
3. Mix Everything Together
In a large container or bucket, combine 1 cup of washing soda, 1 cup of borax, and the grated soap. Stir everything thoroughly, making sure it’s evenly mixed. Some people like to add a few drops of essential oils (like lavender or tea tree) to give their detergent a fresh scent, but this step is totally optional. Once mixed, you can store your homemade detergent in an airtight container. You’ll only need about 1-2 tablespoons per load, so a little goes a long way!
4. Adjust the Recipe for Your Needs
One of the great things about DIY laundry soap is that it’s totally customizable. If you have hard water, you might want to increase the amount of washing soda or add a little more borax to help soften the water. For those with sensitive skin, you can use a fragrance-free bar soap or a hypoallergenic option to avoid irritation. Experimenting with the recipe can help you find what works best for you and your laundry routine.
5. Test and Store Your Soap Safely
Before using your laundry soap on delicate items, test it on a small load to make sure it cleans effectively without leaving any residue. Most people find homemade detergent works great on regular loads, including towels, sheets, and everyday clothes. Store your soap in a dry, cool place to keep it fresh, and make sure it’s clearly labeled, especially if you have little ones in the house. With proper storage, your DIY laundry soap can last for months and save you a ton of money over time!
