20.01.2025

How to Make Liquid Laundry Soap That Goes a Long Way Using Only 3 Ingredients, Cleans and Softens

By Lesia

You’re in for a treat! Making your own laundry detergent is a budget-friendly and eco-conscious choice. Here’s a simple recipe using just 3 ingredients:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Borax
  • 1 cup Washing Soda
  • 1 cup grated Fels-Naptha soap (or other pure soap flakes)

Instructions:

  1. Combine: In a large jar or container, combine the Borax, washing soda, and grated soap.
  2. Mix thoroughly: Seal the jar and shake vigorously to combine all the ingredients.
  3. Use: For a top-loading washing machine, use 1-2 tablespoons per load. For a high-efficiency (HE) machine, use 1-2 teaspoons.

Tips & Variations:

  • Essential Oils: Add 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oil (like lavender or tea tree) to the mixture for a pleasant scent.  
  • Hot Water Method: For a more liquid detergent:
    • Combine 1 cup hot water with 1/4 cup washing soda and 1/4 cup borax in a jar. Stir well.
    • Add 1/4 cup grated soap and stir until dissolved.
    • Add 1 3/4 cups cold water and stir again.
    • Let it sit overnight to thicken.  
  • Adjustments: You may need to adjust the amount of detergent used based on the size of your load and the hardness of your water.

Benefits of Homemade Laundry Soap:

  • Cost-effective: Significantly cheaper than commercial detergents.
  • Eco-friendly: Free from harsh chemicals and phosphates.
  • Gentle on skin: Less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
  • Versatile: Can be used for most laundry needs.

Important Notes:

  • Always test a small amount first: Use a small amount of detergent on a single load of laundry before using it on all your clothes.
  • Store properly: Store your homemade detergent in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.  
  • Safety: Keep out of reach of children.

Enjoy your homemade laundry detergent!

Disclaimer: This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow safety precautions when handling cleaning products.