DIY How to Make Homemade Liquid Laundry Detergent

Making your own DIY homemade liquid laundry detergent can be efficient and effective with only a few simple ingredients! Natural laundry detergent is the perfect way to have complete control over the ingredients while keeping you from potentially toxic chemicals. It is also more cost effective than a local grocery store product and can be more eco-friendly. This DIY laundry detergent recipe washes about 300 loads of laundry for our large family and lasts us about 6 months!

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Is homemade laundry detergent safer than store bought?

Homemade laundry detergent can be safer than store-bought options in some respects, but it depends on the ingredients you use and your specific needs. Here are some factors to consider when comparing homemade and store-bought detergents:

Advantages of Homemade Laundry Detergent

1. Control Over Ingredients:
   • Fewer Chemicals: You have control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes commonly found in commercial detergents.
   • Customizable: You can select natural ingredients that are gentle on sensitive skin and free from allergens.
2. Environmental Impact:
   • Less Packaging Waste: Homemade detergent often requires less packaging, reducing environmental waste.
   • Biodegradable Ingredients: You can choose biodegradable ingredients, which can be better for the environment.
3. Cost-Effective:
   • Lower Cost: Homemade detergents can be more economical, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk.

Potential Drawbacks of Homemade Detergent

1. Effectiveness:
   • Cleaning Power: Homemade detergents may not always match the cleaning power of some commercial products, especially for heavy-duty stains or very dirty clothes.
2. Safety and Sensitivity:
   • Testing Required: Homemade detergents should be tested to ensure they don’t cause skin irritation or allergies, as some ingredients can still be irritating.
   • Ingredient Reactions: Certain homemade recipes might interact with different water types (hard or soft) and affect cleaning performance.
3. Preservation:
   • Shelf Life: Homemade detergents might have a shorter shelf life compared to commercial products, which often contain preservatives.
4. Consistency and Formulation:
   • Consistency: Homemade recipes can vary, and it might take some experimentation to find the right balance for your needs.

Store-Bought Detergent Considerations

1. Formulation and Testing:
   • Regulated: Store-bought detergents are often tested for safety and effectiveness, though they may still contain potentially irritating chemicals.
   • Variety: There are many options available, including those specifically formulated for sensitive skin or environmental considerations.
2. Convenience:
   • Ease of Use: Store-bought detergents are ready to use and require no preparation, which can be more convenient.
3. Effectiveness:
   • Performance: Many commercial detergents are formulated to handle a wide range of stains and soil levels effectively.

Why are Laundry Detergents Bad for You

Store-bought laundry detergents can have some potential downsides, especially if you have sensitivities or concerns about chemicals. Here are a few reasons why some consider them problematic:

1. Harsh Chemicals: Many commercial detergents contain synthetic chemicals, surfactants, and preservatives that can be irritating to the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
2. Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances used in detergents can be a common cause of allergic reactions or skin irritation. These fragrances often contain phthalates, which are chemicals linked to potential health risks.
3. Colorants and Dyes: Some detergents contain artificial dyes that can be irritating to the skin or trigger allergic reactions.
4. Environmental Impact: Many store-bought detergents contain phosphates, which can contribute to water pollution and negatively affect aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, plastic packaging adds to environmental waste.
5. Chemical Residue: Residual chemicals from detergents can remain on clothes after washing, which may cause skin irritation or other health issues for sensitive individuals.
6. Sensitivity: People with conditions like eczema or psoriasis may find that commercial detergents exacerbate their symptoms due to the presence of certain chemicals.
7. Pediatric Concerns: Babies and young children often have more sensitive skin, and some parents prefer to avoid the chemicals in standard detergents to reduce potential risks.

7 Worst Ingredients in Laundry Detergent

Here are seven of the most commonly criticized ingredients found in laundry detergents due to their potential health and environmental impacts:

1. Fragrances

• ​Synthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. They often contain phthalates, which are chemicals linked to hormonal disruptions and other health risks.

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

• ​These surfactants are used for their foaming and cleaning properties but can be harsh on the skin, causing irritation and dryness. They can also be irritating to the respiratory system if inhaled.

3. Optical Brighteners

• ​These chemicals make clothes appear whiter and brighter by absorbing UV light and emitting visible blue light. They are not biodegradable, can cause skin irritation, and may contribute to environmental pollution.

4. Phosphates

• ​Phosphates enhance cleaning efficiency but can lead to water pollution. They contribute to algal blooms in aquatic environments, which deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life.

5. Chlorine Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite)

• ​Chlorine bleach can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. It also has a strong environmental impact, potentially forming harmful byproducts when it reacts with other substances.

6. Enzymes (Proteases, Amylases, Lipases)

• ​Enzymes break down stains but can be irritating to sensitive skin and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. They can also be a concern for people with certain allergies.

7. Preservatives (Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI))

• These preservatives prevent microbial growth but are known to be highly allergenic and can cause skin rashes and other allergic reactions.

What is dioxane in laundry detergents?

​Dioxane is considered a probable human carcinogen based on studies showing its potential to cause cancer. It can also cause other health issues, such as skin irritation and respiratory problems, particularly with prolonged exposure. It is a chemical compound that can be found in some laundry detergents and other cleaning products as a byproduct of the manufacturing process. It is not intentionally added but can be a contaminant that arises from the reaction of certain ingredients used in the production of these products.

What can I add to my homemade laundry detergent to make it smell better?

To make your homemade laundry detergent smell better, you can use a variety of natural and effective ingredients. Here are some ideas:

Essential Oils

Essential oils are a popular choice for adding fragrance to homemade laundry detergent. They also offer additional benefits, such as antibacterial properties. I use 80-90 drops for a very large batch (5-gallon bucket full). It is usually recommended to use 30-50 drops. It’s really up to you how much fragrance you’d like to add (if any) to the mix. Here are some commonly used essential oils for laundry: 

• Lavender: Provides a calming, floral scent and has natural antibacterial properties.
• Lemon: Offers a fresh, citrusy aroma and can help with deodorizing.
• Eucalyptus: Has a clean, invigorating scent and can help with antibacterial effects.
• Peppermint: Provides a refreshing, minty fragrance and can help with deodorizing.
• Tea Tree: Known for its strong antiseptic properties and a clean, medicinal scent.

How to Use Essential Oils

• Add to Detergent: When making liquid detergent it is recommended to add 30-50 drops if you are wanting to use essential oils, however as stated above, I use roughly around 80. For powder detergent, add the essential oil to the dry ingredients and mix well.
• Scent Boosters: You can also add essential oils to a homemade fabric softener or dryer balls for a longer-lasting scent.

Herbal Infusions

Infusing your detergent with herbs can add a subtle, natural fragrance:

• Rosemary: Has a fresh, woody aroma and can be added by steeping dried rosemary in hot water.
• Mint: Provides a crisp, refreshing scent and can be infused similarly to rosemary.

Citrus Peels

Dried citrus peels, like lemon or orange, can add a natural, fresh scent:

• How to Use: Grind dried citrus peels into a fine powder and mix into your detergent.

Vinegar

White vinegar can be used as a natural fabric softener and deodorizer, which can enhance the overall freshness of your laundry:

• How to Use: Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.

Homemade Scent Booster

You can also make your own scent boosters by combining ingredients like baking soda and essential oils:

• How to Make: Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Store in a jar and use a few tablespoons per load to boost the scent.

Wool Dryer Balls 

• For Each Dryer Ball: Add 2-5 drops (more can be added!) of essential oil to each wool dryer ball. This amount is usually sufficient to impart a pleasant fragrance to your laundry.
• How to use:
  1. Add Essential Oil: Drop the essential oil directly onto the surface of the wool dryer balls.
  2. Let Them Absorb: Allow the balls to sit for a few hours before using them, so the essential oil has time to be absorbed and spread throughout the wool.
  3. Add to Dryer: Place the scented dryer balls in the dryer with your laundry as usual.

When adding any of these ingredients, start with smaller amounts and adjust according to your preference. Always test a small batch to ensure that the scent is to your liking and that it doesn’t affect the performance of the detergent.

Equipment Needed to Make Your Own Laundry Detergent

Box grater

Large pot

​Metal Spoon

5 gallon bucket with a lid 

Airtight container (optional–for small storage on washer)

Ingredients for Homemade Laundry Soap

1. 3 bars of soap grated (such as Fels Naptha or Castile soap)
2. 3 cups washing soda (sodium carbonate)
3. 1 1/2 cups borax (optional, for boosting cleaning power; can be omitted for a gentler detergent)
4. 8 cups water (for dissolving the soap)
5. half gallon or 8 additional cups water (for mixing the detergent)
6. 30 to 50 drops of essential oils (more can be added!)

Instructions for Best Homemade Laundry Detergent

1. Grate the Soap:
   • Use a cheese grater or food processor to grate the fels-naptha bar of soap into fine flakes.
2. Dissolve the Soap:
   • In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil.
   • Add the grated soap to the boiling water, stirring continuously until the soap is completely dissolved.
   • This can take some time so be patient!
3. Add Washing Soda and Borax:
   • Reduce the heat to medium.
   • Add the washing soda and the borax (if using). Stir until both are fully dissolved. It may still be grainy.
4. Cool and Mix:
   • Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
   • Add the additional 8 cups of water (half gallon) to the 5 gallon bucket.
   • Slowly and carefully pour in the hot soapy mixture into the 5 gallon bucket.
   • Stir the water and the soap concentration until thoroughly incorporated.
   • Add the essential oils of choice and mix again.
   • Fill the 5 gallon bucket up with water to about 4 inches from the top of the bucket and stir until all the ingredients are mixed well.
   • Place the lid on.
5. Let it Sit:
   • Allow the detergent to sit for about 24 hours. It may thicken and gel as it cools.
6. Stir Before Use:
   • Before each use, stir the detergent to ensure it’s well mixed.

Usage:

• For a regular load: Use about 1/2 cup of detergent.
• For a large or heavily soiled load: You might need a bit more.

Get your dryer balls here!

Tips:

• Storage: Store the detergent in a large, clean container with a lid. Shake or stir before each use.
• For Easier Handling: Fill a 1/2 gallon or a gallon mason jar with the liquid detergent and store the 5 gallon bucket out of the way. Make sure to shake or stir before each usage. Use 1/2 cup per load. 
• Allergies/Sensitivities: If you have skin sensitivities, choose a mild, fragrance-free soap, and consider omitting the borax.
• Note on the Soap Bars: Fels Naptha tends to gel up when heating. I have found that the the Castile soap bar makes a runnier final product, and people tend to prefer it over the Fels Naptha. Both seem to perform the same, so it’s just a matter of preference.

This homemade detergent is effective and can be customized to suit your preferences and needs. Enjoy your DIY laundry solution!