Creating your own laundry detergent is a fantastic way to save money, reduce exposure to harsh chemicals, and make your laundry routine a little greener.
These DIY recipes often use simple, natural ingredients to get your clothes clean and fresh.
You can customize them with your favorite scents and feel good about what you're using for your family's laundry..
Table of Contents
1. 3-Ingredient Natural Laundry Detergent with Borax and Washing Soda
This simple, all-natural laundry detergent recipe is a breeze to make and uses just three core ingredients: borax, washing soda, and grated bar soap.
It's cost-effective and works well to get your clothes clean without harsh chemicals.
You can even add essential oils for a lovely, natural scent, making it a great choice for sensitive skin and families..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Grated Bar Soap
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Reduces toxins
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Natural scent with essential oils
Pro Tip: If you prefer a scent, add about 40 drops of your favorite essential oils directly to the powder mixture in the jar and shake well to combine.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Natural Laundry Detergent with Borax and Washing Soda
2. Non-Toxic Powder Laundry Detergent with Borax
This homemade non-toxic powder laundry detergent is a great way to replace commercial options loaded with synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals.
It's affordable, easy to whip up, and effective at cleaning clothes.
Plus, it's cloth diaper-safe, making it a versatile option for families looking for a cleaner laundry solution..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Grated Bar Soap
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Affordable
- Easy to make
- Cloth diaper safe
Pro Tip: You can adjust the amount used to 1-2 tablespoons per load, depending on your washing machine and load size.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Powder Laundry Detergent with Borax
3. DIY Homemade Laundry Detergent with Borax and Fels-Naptha
This DIY laundry detergent recipe is a fantastic money-saver and uses fewer chemicals than store-bought options.
The combination of Fels-Naptha, Borax, OxyClean, Washing Soda, Baking Soda, and Epsom salts with essential oils creates a wonderfully scented and effective cleaner for your clothes.
It makes a huge batch that lasts a long time!.
Key Ingredients:
- Fels-Naptha
- Borax
- OxyClean
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salts
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Fewer chemicals
- Great scent
- Lasts a long time
Pro Tip: Use a high-powered blender or food processor to grate the Fels-Naptha bars efficiently by cutting them into chunks and processing with a bit of Borax.
Get the Recipe: DIY Homemade Laundry Detergent with Borax and Fels-Naptha
4. Clean, Simple, and Natural DIY Laundry Detergent
This DIY laundry detergent is incredibly easy, affordable, and a wonderful step towards a more natural home.
You'll love knowing exactly what's in your laundry soap, making it ideal for sensitive skin and eco-conscious living.
Customize with your favorite essential oils for a fresh, personalized scent..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Grated Soap
- Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Reduces harsh chemicals
- Eco-friendly
- Cost-effective
- Customizable scent
Pro Tip: For an extra deodorizing boost, sprinkle a little extra baking soda directly into the wash.
Get the Recipe: Clean, Simple, and Natural DIY Laundry Detergent
5. Economical Homemade Laundry Detergent with Borax and Fels Naptha
This homemade laundry detergent is a game-changer for saving money and achieving softer clothes.
By using Borax, Washing Soda, and Fels Naptha soap, you can create a powerful cleaner that costs a fraction of commercial brands.
You'll love the extra softness your laundry gets with this simple recipe..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Super Washing Soda
- Fels Naptha Soap
- Oxi Clean
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Softer clothes
- Effective cleaning
- Long-lasting
Pro Tip: Use about 1 tablespoon of detergent per load for high-efficiency machines; you might need to experiment to find the perfect amount for your needs.
Get the Recipe: Economical Homemade Laundry Detergent with Borax and Fels Naptha
6. Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent with Borax and Washing Soda
This powdered homemade laundry detergent recipe has been perfected over a decade for families seeking to reduce harmful ingredients.
It uses a blend of baking soda, borax, and washing soda to effectively clean clothes.
It's a budget-friendly choice that leaves laundry smelling fresh and clean without any harsh additives..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Sea Salt
Benefits:
- Reduces harmful ingredients
- Budget-friendly
- Effective cleaning
- Leaves laundry fresh
Pro Tip: For loads with tough odors or whites, add 1/2 cup of white distilled vinegar to your washer's fabric softener dispenser.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent with Borax and Washing Soda
7. Easy Homemade Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent with Essential Oils
Craft your own easy, non-toxic laundry detergent using all-natural ingredients and the power of essential oils for a beautiful, natural scent.
This recipe is simple to make and works wonderfully to get clothes clean without harmful residues.
You'll love the fresh, clean results and peace of mind..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Fine Salt
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- All-natural ingredients
- Fresh, natural scent
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: Experiment with different essential oil combinations like lavender and tea tree for their antibacterial properties or lemon for a crisp scent.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent with Essential Oils
8. Easy DIY Powder Laundry Detergent with Borax and Washing Soda
This easy-to-make powdered laundry detergent uses common household ingredients like Borax and washing soda to tackle dirt and stains.
It's a budget-friendly option that works well in HE machines, leaving your clothes smelling wonderfully fresh.
You'll be amazed at how little it costs per load, making it a smart choice for busy households..
Key Ingredients:
- OxiClean with Odor Blasters
- Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda
- Borax
- Arm and Hammer Baking Soda
- Fels-Naptha Soap
- Downy Unstopables
Benefits:
- Cost-effective per load
- Tackles stains
- Leaves clothes smelling fresh
- Compatible with HE washers
Pro Tip: Store your homemade detergent in a sealed container next to your washing machine for easy access, using an old OxiClean container and scoop for perfect measurements.
Get the Recipe: Easy DIY Powder Laundry Detergent with Borax and Washing Soda
9. Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent with Baking Soda and Washing Soda
Create a wonderfully effective, non-toxic laundry detergent with simple ingredients like baking soda and washing soda.
This recipe is gentle on clothes and the environment, avoiding harsh chemicals found in store-bought options.
It's a cost-saving alternative that ensures your family is safe from toxins while keeping laundry brilliantly clean..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Fels Naptha
- Borax (optional)
Benefits:
- Reduces plastic waste
- Avoids harmful chemicals
- Cost-effective
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: When handling the dry ingredients, wear a mask and eye protection as a precautionary measure.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent with Baking Soda and Washing Soda
10. Simple Homemade Powder Laundry Detergent
This super simple homemade powder laundry detergent recipe is a game-changer for your laundry routine.
It costs a fraction of the price of store-bought options and tackles tough stains effectively.
You’ll enjoy fresh-smelling clothes without the hefty price tag, making laundry day more budget-friendly..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Oxyclean
- Fels Naptha
Benefits:
- Very affordable
- Effective stain removal
- Saves money annually
- Simple to make
Pro Tip: Consider using dryer balls instead of dryer sheets to further save money and reduce static cling.
Get the Recipe: Simple Homemade Powder Laundry Detergent
11. Easy Natural Homemade Liquid Laundry Detergent
Whip up a batch of this incredibly easy and inexpensive natural liquid laundry detergent using liquid castile soap.
It’s a fantastic non-toxic alternative to store-bought brands and works wonderfully for all types of washing machines, including HE models.
This recipe provides a cost-effective way to keep your clothes clean and fresh..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda (sodium carbonate)
- Borax
- Liquid Castile Soap
- Water
Benefits:
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Cost-effective
- Reduces toxins
- Works in any washer
Pro Tip: Let the mixture gel for about 24 hours after mixing; it should achieve an even, white consistency. Give it a good shake if it separates.
Get the Recipe: Easy Natural Homemade Liquid Laundry Detergent
12. Safe and Simple DIY Powder Laundry Detergent
Discover the ease and benefits of making your own powder laundry detergent! This recipe is not only incredibly cost-effective but also allows you to customize ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances.
By using reusable containers, you'll also reduce plastic waste, making it a win for your wallet, your health, and the planet..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Baby Oxiclean (optional)
- Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Reduces chemical exposure
- Environmentally friendly
- Customizable for sensitive skin
- Saves money
Pro Tip: Add the detergent directly to the drum of your washing machine before adding clothes to ensure it dissolves completely.
Get the Recipe: Safe and Simple DIY Powder Laundry Detergent
13. Gentle Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent
This gentle homemade powdered laundry detergent is perfect for those with allergies or sensitive skin, including babies.
It's a low-suds formula that works effectively in HE machines.
By skipping the high prices of commercial detergents, you can achieve fresh, clean laundry while keeping harmful chemicals out of your home..
Key Ingredients:
- Fels Naptha Soap
- Ivory Soap
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Essential oils (optional)
- OxiClean (optional)
Benefits:
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Low-suds formula
- Cost-effective
- Easy to make
Pro Tip: For an easy liquid fabric softener, add 1 cup of white vinegar to the wash in your liquid fabric softener dispenser.
Get the Recipe: Gentle Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent
14. Hypoallergenic Homemade Laundry Detergent
This simple recipe for hypoallergenic homemade laundry detergent is a lifesaver for sensitive skin and noses.
Made with readily available ingredients, it's easy to remember and store, eliminating the need for bulky liquid detergent jugs.
Enjoy clean clothes without the worry of rashes or irritation, all while saving money..
Key Ingredients:
- Bars of Soap (Dial Basics Hypoallergenic Bar Soap)
- Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
- Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
- 20 Mule Team Borax
Benefits:
- Hypoallergenic
- Low suds for HE machines
- Very cost-effective
- Easy to store
Pro Tip: Using white vinegar in place of fabric softener is a great way to soften clothes and can be added to the fabric softener dispenser.
Get the Recipe: Hypoallergenic Homemade Laundry Detergent
15. DIY Homemade Laundry Detergent (HE Compatible)
This DIY homemade laundry detergent is a powerful cleaner that works wonders, even on tough stains, and smells great.
It's compatible with HE washers and incredibly cost-effective, with a single batch lasting a family for months.
You'll get brilliantly clean clothes for pennies per load, saving you a significant amount of money each year..
Key Ingredients:
- Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda
- Dirty Jobs Heavy Duty Stain Remover (or similar)
- Purex Crystals (for scent)
- Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
- Borax
- Fels-Naptha Soap
Benefits:
- Effective on tough stains
- Cost-effective
- HE washer compatible
- Long-lasting batch
Pro Tip: For HE washers, using about a tablespoon of this detergent per load is usually sufficient, making it last even longer.
Get the Recipe: DIY Homemade Laundry Detergent (HE Compatible)
16. Easy Homemade Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap, Borax, and Washing Soda
This easy-to-make powdered laundry detergent is a cost-effective and gentle option for keeping your clothes fresh.
It combines the cleaning power of castile soap with the natural efficacy of borax and washing soda.
It's a great way to avoid harsh chemicals often found in commercial detergents, making it ideal for families and those with sensitive skin..
Key Ingredients:
- Castile soap bars
- Borax
- Washing soda
- Baking soda
- Essential oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Gentle on skin
- Reduces exposure to harsh chemicals
- Customizable scent
Pro Tip: If you find your clothes need a little extra brightening, add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap, Borax, and Washing Soda
17. Simple Liquid Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap, Washing Soda, and Baking Soda
This liquid laundry detergent recipe is a wonderfully simple and budget-friendly alternative to store-bought options.
It harnesses the cleaning power of castile soap, enhanced by washing soda and baking soda for a truly effective clean.
It’s designed to leave your clothes smelling fresh without the synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin..
Key Ingredients:
- Hot water
- Super Washing Soda
- Baking soda
- Castile soap
- Essential oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Leaves clothes clean and fresh
- Gentle and natural ingredients
Pro Tip: Store this liquid detergent in a glass container to keep it fresh. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for a natural scent boost.
Get the Recipe: Simple Liquid Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap, Washing Soda, and Baking Soda
18. Non-Toxic Laundry Powder with Epsom Salt, Washing Soda, and Baking Soda
This non-toxic laundry powder is a dream for sensitive skin and an eco-conscious choice.
It relies on the natural goodness of Epsom salt, baking soda, and washing soda to soften water, lift dirt, and freshen fabrics.
It's a simple, clean swap that delivers powerful results without any harsh chemicals..
Key Ingredients:
- Epsom salt
- Baking soda
- Washing soda
- Sea salt
- Essential oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly
- Great for sensitive skin
- Reduces plastic waste
- Affordable
Pro Tip: For an extra boost of freshness and cleaning power, add a tablespoon of oxygen bleach or a few drops of lemon juice to your wash.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Laundry Powder with Epsom Salt, Washing Soda, and Baking Soda
19. Natural Powder Laundry Soap with Borax, Baking Soda, and Soap
This homemade powder laundry soap is a simple yet effective way to get your clothes clean.
It combines the power of borax, baking soda, and your favorite soap bar to create a naturally derived cleaner.
It's budget-friendly and works well even in HE machines, leaving your laundry smelling fresh without harsh chemicals..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Borax
- Soap Bar
- Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle on fabrics
Pro Tip: If you like a scented laundry soap, consider using a scented bar soap or adding a few drops of your favorite essential oils.
Get the Recipe: Natural Powder Laundry Soap with Borax, Baking Soda, and Soap
20. All-Natural Laundry Detergent with Baking Soda, Washing Soda, and Epsom Salt
This all-natural laundry detergent is a fantastic alternative to store-bought options, crafted with simple ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and Epsom salt.
It’s designed to leave your clothes fresh and clean without any of the harsh chemicals found in conventional detergents.
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite essential oils for a delightful scent..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Salt
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Toxin-free
- Gentle on skin
- Eco-friendly
Pro Tip: Washing soda is known for being a powerful cleaning agent, making this recipe especially effective for tackling tough loads.
Get the Recipe: All-Natural Laundry Detergent with Baking Soda, Washing Soda, and Epsom Salt
21. Simple Powder Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap, Borax, and Washing Soda
Looking for a straightforward laundry detergent recipe? This powder version uses just a few key ingredients like Castile soap, borax, and washing soda.
It's incredibly easy to make and proves that you don't need fancy chemicals to get your laundry sparkling clean.
It’s a great money-saving swap for a more natural lifestyle..
Key Ingredients:
- Bar Soap (Castile)
- Washing Soda
- Borax
Benefits:
- Affordable
- Simple ingredients
- Effective cleaning
Pro Tip: For sensitive skin, opt for an unscented Castile bar soap and skip any added essential oils.
Get the Recipe: Simple Powder Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap, Borax, and Washing Soda
22. Homemade Laundry Detergent with Fels-Naptha, Borax, and Washing Soda
This popular homemade laundry detergent recipe uses Fels-Naptha soap, borax, and washing soda to create a powerful cleaning powder.
It’s a cost-effective solution that tackles tough stains and leaves clothes smelling fresh.
It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a must-try for anyone looking to simplify their laundry routine naturally..
Key Ingredients:
- Fels-Naptha Soap
- Borax
- Laundry Soda (Washing Soda)
- Oxyclean (optional)
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Great for stains
- Easy to make
Pro Tip: If you encounter clumping due to moisture, just stir the mixture with a wooden spoon to break it up.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Laundry Detergent with Fels-Naptha, Borax, and Washing Soda
23. DIY Laundry Detergent with Fels Naptha, Washing Soda, Oxi-Clean, and Borax
Elevate your laundry game with this DIY detergent that mimics the scent of boutique brands without the high price tag.
It combines Fels Naptha soap, washing soda, Oxi-Clean, and borax for a potent blend that gets clothes exceptionally clean and fragrant.
It’s a fantastic way to get that luxury laundry experience right at home..
Key Ingredients:
- Fels Naptha Soap
- Washing Soda
- Oxi-Clean
- Borax
- Fragrance Oil (optional)
Benefits:
- Boutique scent dupe
- Powerful stain fighter
- Long-lasting batch
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of fragrance oil to wool dryer balls to scent your laundry with the same fragrance used in the detergent.
Get the Recipe: DIY Laundry Detergent with Fels Naptha, Washing Soda, Oxi-Clean, and Borax
24. Easy No-Grate Laundry Soap with Borax and Castile Soap
Whipping up your own laundry soap has never been easier with this no-grate recipe! It combines the cleaning power of borax and washing soda with the gentle touch of liquid castile and dish soap.
This blend is designed to be tough on dirt but gentle enough for sensitive skin, offering a refreshing clean without harsh chemicals..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Dawn Dish Soap
- Liquid Castile Soap
- Boiling Water
Benefits:
- Gentle on Skin
- Cost-Effective
- Easy to Make
Pro Tip: Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil can give your laundry a subtle, natural fragrance.
Get the Recipe: Easy No-Grate Laundry Soap with Borax and Castile Soap
25. Skin-Friendly Borax Laundry Detergent with Washing Soda
This skin-friendly DIY laundry detergent is a budget-friendly marvel, featuring borax and washing soda as its cleaning stars.
It's praised for being an excellent alternative to store-bought options, promising a clean wash that's kind to your skin.
It’s a great way to simplify your laundry routine with natural components..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Skin-Friendly
- Economical
- Effective Cleaning
Pro Tip: For hard water, consider adding a little salt to your mix to help boost its cleaning power.
Get the Recipe: Skin-Friendly Borax Laundry Detergent with Washing Soda
26. Nontoxic Laundry Soap with Baking Soda and Borax
Discover the satisfaction of making your own laundry soap! This nontoxic, eco-friendly recipe uses simple ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, borax, and Epsom salt.
It's gentle on your skin and clothes, saving you money and reducing plastic waste from detergent bottles.
You can even customize it with your favorite essential oils..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Epsom Salt
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Nontoxic
- Eco-Friendly
- Budget-Friendly
- Gentle on Skin
Pro Tip: Store your homemade laundry soap in an airtight container in a dry place to prevent clumping.
Get the Recipe: Nontoxic Laundry Soap with Baking Soda and Borax
27. Easy Liquid Laundry Soap with Fels-Naptha and Borax
Create a generous batch of liquid laundry soap with just a few key ingredients! This recipe, featuring Fels-Naptha soap, borax, and washing soda, is surprisingly easy and quick to make, costing very little per load.
It’s an excellent way to keep your family's laundry clean without breaking the bank..
Key Ingredients:
- Fels-Naptha Soap
- Borax
- Arm & Hammer Laundry Booster
- Hot Water
Benefits:
- Inexpensive to Make
- Effective Cleaning
- Large Batch Yields
Pro Tip: Using an immersion blender after the soap has rested helps to create a smoother, more consistent liquid.
Get the Recipe: Easy Liquid Laundry Soap with Fels-Naptha and Borax
28. Simple Liquid Laundry Soap with Fels Naptha and Borax
This homemade liquid laundry soap recipe is a fantastic way to save money and reduce household chemicals.
It uses simple ingredients like Fels Naptha soap, borax, and washing soda, resulting in a low-sudsing formula that's effective for all types of washing machines.
You'll love how clean and fresh your clothes feel!.
Key Ingredients:
- Fels Naptha Soap
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Water
Benefits:
- Cost-Effective
- Low-Sudsing
- Works in Various Machines
Pro Tip: To make it easier to use, transfer the finished soap into an old, clean laundry detergent jug.
Get the Recipe: Simple Liquid Laundry Soap with Fels Naptha and Borax
29. Cost-Effective Homemade Laundry Powder with Four Ingredients
Create a powerful yet economical laundry powder with just four simple ingredients! This recipe is a fantastic alternative to expensive commercial detergents, costing significantly less per load.
It's perfect for getting your clothes clean and fresh without harsh chemicals..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Borax
- Laundry Soap Bar
Benefits:
- Cost-Effective
- Simple Ingredients
- Effective Cleaning
Pro Tip: For top-loading machines, add the powder to the washer first, start the water to dissolve, then add your clothes.
Get the Recipe: Cost-Effective Homemade Laundry Powder with Four Ingredients
30. Easy 3-Ingredient Powdered Laundry Detergent
Simplify your laundry routine with this incredibly easy 3-ingredient powdered detergent! It saves you time, money, and trips to the store.
This recipe is ideal for those looking for a straightforward, effective, and natural way to clean their clothes, especially when commercial options are scarce..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap
Benefits:
- Saves Time and Money
- Simple to Make
- Effective Cleaning
Pro Tip: For cold water washes, ensure you dissolve the detergent in warm water before adding it to the machine.
Get the Recipe: Easy 3-Ingredient Powdered Laundry Detergent