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How Do You Make Soap for a Washing Machine?

Published in Laundry & Cleaning 3 mins read

You can create a homemade laundry detergent for your washing machine using a few common household ingredients. This recipe uses powder components.

Homemade Powder Laundry Detergent Recipe

Here's a simple recipe to make your own laundry detergent:

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups water (initially for boiling, and more to dilute)
  • 2 cups Borax (sodium borate)
  • 2 cups Baking Soda (sodium bicarbonate)
  • 1 cup 3% Hydrogen Peroxide
  • 2 cups Dish Soap (like Dawn or similar - choose one without bleach)

Instructions:

  1. Boil Water: Start by boiling 8 cups of water.
  2. Combine Borax and Baking Soda: In a large container, add 2 cups of borax and 2 cups of baking soda to the boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
  3. Prepare Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: Dilute 1 cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 2 cups of water. Add this mixture to the borax and baking soda solution.
  4. Add Dish Soap: Pour in 2 cups of dish soap.
  5. Add More Boiling Water: Add another 8 cups of boiling water and stir thoroughly.
  6. Cool and Store: Allow the mixture to cool completely. It will thicken into a gel-like consistency. You can add more water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Store in an airtight container.

Usage:

  • Use approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the homemade laundry detergent per load, depending on the size and soil level of the laundry.

Important Considerations:

  • Machine Compatibility: While this recipe is generally safe for most washing machines, it's always a good idea to check your washing machine's manual for any detergent restrictions. High-efficiency (HE) machines may require detergents specifically formulated for them to prevent excessive sudsing.
  • Ingredients: Be sure to use the correct types of ingredients. Do not substitute baking powder for baking soda.
  • Storage: Store the detergent in a cool, dry place. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
  • Alternatives: Some people prefer to use washing soda (sodium carbonate) instead of baking soda. Washing soda is more alkaline and has stronger cleaning power, but it can also be harsher on fabrics.

This homemade laundry detergent recipe offers a cost-effective and potentially environmentally friendly alternative to store-bought detergents. Remember to adjust the amount used based on your water hardness and the soil level of your laundry.

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