Making your own cleaning products can be a rewarding way to save money and reduce harsh chemicals in your home.
If you're looking for effective, budget-friendly alternatives to store-bought dishwasher detergents, you've come to the right place! This collection features simple DIY recipes using common household ingredients that will leave your dishes sparkling clean..
Table of Contents
1. DIY Dishwasher Pods with Washing Soda, Baking Soda, and Citric Acid
These DIY dishwasher pods are a fantastic way to get sparkling clean dishes without harsh chemicals.
They're made with a simple blend of washing soda and baking soda to cut through grease, citric acid to tackle hard water spots, and salt to help break down food particles.
They're super easy to make, cost-effective, and leave your dishes looking amazing..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Citric Acid
- Kosher Salt
- White Vinegar
- Lemon Essential Oil (optional)
Benefits:
- Cuts through grease
- Removes stains
- Eliminates hard water spots
- Leaves dishes sparkling
Pro Tip: For extra shine, add a splash of natural dish soap to your dishwasher's rinse aid compartment.
Get the Recipe: DIY Dishwasher Pods with Washing Soda, Baking Soda, and Citric Acid
2. Homemade Dishwasher Pods with Washing Soda, Citric Acid, and Epsom Salt
Say goodbye to expensive and chemical-laden dishwasher pods with this simple homemade recipe.
It combines washing soda for its cleaning power, citric acid to combat mineral deposits, and Epsom salt to help lift stuck-on food.
A touch of lemon essential oil adds a fresh scent and extra degreasing power.
These pods are a budget-friendly and non-toxic way to get your dishes gleaming..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Citric Acid
- Epsom Salt
- Lemon Essential Oil
- Vinegar
Benefits:
- Cleans dishes effectively
- Reduces toxins in the home
- Prevents white residue
- Cuts through grease
Pro Tip: If you have very hard water, try adding some white vinegar to the rinse aid compartment for extra shine.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Dishwasher Pods with Washing Soda, Citric Acid, and Epsom Salt
3. Natural Dishwasher Detergent Tabs with Citric Acid and Coarse Salt
These DIY dishwasher tabs are a brilliant eco-friendly alternative to conventional detergents.
Made with citric acid to descale and remove stains, sodium carbonate (washing soda) to cut through grease, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) for cleaning and deodorizing, and coarse salt to soften water, they get your dishes impressively clean.
Plus, they're phosphate-free and plastic-free, making them a great choice for a greener home..
Key Ingredients:
- Sodium Carbonate (Washing Soda)
- Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)
- Citric Acid
- Coarse Salt / Kosher Salt
- Water
Benefits:
- Descales and removes stains
- Degreases effectively
- Cleans and deodorizes
- Softens water
Pro Tip: If you notice a greasy film on your dishes, try increasing the amount of sodium carbonate. For a white film, adjust the salt percentage.
Get the Recipe: Natural Dishwasher Detergent Tabs with Citric Acid and Coarse Salt
4. Easy Dishwasher Powder Detergent with Washing Soda and Salt
Looking for a no-fuss way to make your dishes shine? This simple dishwasher powder detergent is a must-try! It combines washing soda to tackle grease and salt to boost cleaning power.
Just scoop a tablespoon into your dishwasher for loads of sparkling clean dishes.
It's a wonderfully easy and effective DIY cleaning solution..
Key Ingredients:
- Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda
- Salt
- Lemon Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Sparkling clean dishes
- Cost-effective
- Easy to use
Pro Tip: If you encounter a film on your dishes, try substituting some of the washing soda with citric acid.
Get the Recipe: Easy Dishwasher Powder Detergent with Washing Soda and Salt
5. Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent with Borax, Washing Soda, Citric Acid, and Sea Salt
Experience a cleaner, shinier dish load with this fantastic non-toxic homemade dishwasher detergent.
It combines borax for its cleaning and deodorizing properties, washing soda to tackle hard water, citric acid as a natural rinse aid, and sea salt for added abrasive power.
This recipe is not only budget-friendly at around $0.15 per load but also significantly reduces the toxins in your home, leaving dishes brilliantly clean..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Citric Acid
- Sea Salt
Benefits:
- No film on dishes
- Inexpensive
- Non-toxic
- Shiny clean dishes
Pro Tip: Ensure the powder stays completely dry after mixing to prevent clumping and maintain its usability.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Dishwasher Detergent with Borax, Washing Soda, Citric Acid, and Sea Salt
6. DIY Dishwasher Tablets with Borax, Epsom Salt, and Lemon Juice
Whip up these simple DIY dishwasher tablets for a truly non-toxic clean! They blend borax for powerful cleaning, Epsom salt to help with tough food residue, and fresh lemon juice for degreasing and a bit of fizzing action.
These little tablets are a fantastic way to avoid harmful chemicals and ensure your dishes are food-safe.
Just pop one in for a sparkling finish!.
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Epsom Salt
- Washing Soda
- Lemon Juice
- Essential Oil (optional)
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Effective cleaning
- Reduces chemical intake
- Cost-effective
Pro Tip: If you have hard water, use white distilled vinegar as a rinse aid to help prevent white residue on your glasses.
Get the Recipe: DIY Dishwasher Tablets with Borax, Epsom Salt, and Lemon Juice
7. Natural Dishwasher Pods with Baking Soda, Salt, Castile Soap, and Vinegar
Make your home more natural and eco-friendly with these easy DIY dishwasher pods! They use simple ingredients like baking soda for scrubbing, salt to soften water, castile soap to cut grease, and white vinegar as a natural rinse aid.
These pods are gentle on the planet, tough on grime, and free from harsh chemicals, ensuring your dishes are clean and safe..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Salt
- Castile Soap
- White Vinegar
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Eco-friendly
- Family-safe
- Spot-free dishes
Pro Tip: Sunlight can help speed up the drying process of the pods if you're in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Natural Dishwasher Pods with Baking Soda, Salt, Castile Soap, and Vinegar
8. All-Natural Dishwasher Tabs with Washing Soda, Borax, Epsom Salt, and Vinegar
Enjoy the convenience of dishwasher tabs without the chemicals! These homemade tabs are all-natural, eco-friendly, and incredibly effective at tackling even stubborn, grimy dishes.
They combine washing soda for cleaning, borax for disinfecting, Epsom salt for tough food removal, and vinegar for shine.
They're a cost-effective way to ensure your dishes are sparkling clean naturally..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Epsom Salt
- Vinegar
- Lemon Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Convenient
- Works well on tough dishes
- Eco-friendly
- Cost-effective
Pro Tip: Run a cycle with citric acid before using your new homemade pods to clean out any mineral buildup in your dishwasher.
Get the Recipe: All-Natural Dishwasher Tabs with Washing Soda, Borax, Epsom Salt, and Vinegar
9. Non-Toxic Dishwasher Pods with Essential Oils
Elevate your dishwashing with these non-toxic pods infused with the natural power of dōTERRA essential oils like lemon and On Guard.
These homemade pods are not only better for your health and the environment but also incredibly effective at breaking down tough grease.
Enjoy the subtle, refreshing scent and the peace of mind that comes with using natural cleaning agents..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Citric Acid
- Lemon Essential Oil
- dōTERRA On Guard Essential Oil
- dōTERRA On Guard Cleaner Concentrate
Benefits:
- Chemical-Free Cleaning
- Antibacterial Properties
- Environmental Friendliness
- Pleasant Aroma
Pro Tip: Adding vinegar to the rinse aid compartment can further help prevent spotting, especially if you have hard water.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Dishwasher Pods with Essential Oils
10. Natural Homemade Dishwasher Tablets
Say goodbye to expensive and potentially harmful store-bought pods with these incredibly simple natural dishwasher tablets.
They are incredibly budget-friendly, costing just cents per load.
Made with basic ingredients, they work effectively to tackle dirty dishes, leaving them clean and shiny.
You can even skip the dispenser and place them directly in the bottom of your dishwasher!.
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Dishwasher Salt or Kosher Salt
- Liquid Castile Soap
- Citric Acid
- White Distilled Vinegar
Benefits:
- Extremely Affordable
- Effective Cleaning
- Natural Alternative
- Reduces Plastic Waste
Pro Tip: Consider substituting dishwasher salt for kosher salt in this recipe, but be aware of potential risks for some dishwasher models.
Get the Recipe: Natural Homemade Dishwasher Tablets
11. DIY Lemon Dishwasher Pods
These DIY lemon dishwasher pods are a game-changer for a naturally clean kitchen.
They are super simple to make and incredibly cost-effective.
The combination of baking soda, washing soda, salt, and citric acid tackles even tough grime, while lemon essential oil adds a fresh scent and extra degreasing power.
Just pop one in for sparkling dishes!.
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Salt
- Citric Acid
- Water
- Lemon Essential Oil
- Vinegar
Benefits:
- Tackles Tough Grime
- Cost-Effective
- Natural Degreaser
- Fresh Scent
Pro Tip: Citric acid is a must-have for tackling hard water stains, so don't skip it if you have mineral-heavy water.
Get the Recipe: DIY Lemon Dishwasher Pods
12. DIY Natural Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
Tired of chemical-laden dishwasher pods? These DIY natural detergent tablets are a fantastic alternative! They use a powerful blend of washing soda, baking soda, salt, vinegar, and a touch of dish soap to get your dishes squeaky clean.
Essential oils like lemon or grapefruit add a fresh scent and extra cleaning oomph, making your dishes sparkle without any harsh residues..
Key Ingredients:
- Super Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Salt
- White Vinegar
- Dish Soap
- Essential Oil (optional)
Benefits:
- Sparkling Clean Dishes
- Cuts Through Grease
- Natural Antibacterial
- Reduces Chemical Exposure
Pro Tip: Test your pods to ensure they remove easily and stay in one piece before transferring them to an airtight storage container.
Get the Recipe: DIY Natural Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
13. Dishing Natural Solution: Dishwasher Tablets
Make a conscious choice to reduce toxins and plastic waste with these homemade dishwasher tablets.
They are crafted from simple, natural ingredients that effectively clean your dishes without compromising the environment.
If you have a particularly dirty load, a quick rinse beforehand gives these gentle cleaners the best chance to work their magic, leaving your dishes spotless..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Epsom Salts
- Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda)
- Lemon Essential Oil (optional)
- Fresh Lemon Juice
Benefits:
- Reduces Toxin Load
- Minimizes Plastic Waste
- Effective Cleaning
- Eco-Friendly
Pro Tip: In humid climates, store these tablets in an airtight container to prevent clumping. If you usually use a rinse aid, try 2 tablespoons of white vinegar in the rinse-aid compartment.
Get the Recipe: Dishing Natural Solution: Dishwasher Tablets
14. Homemade Dishwashing Pods
Replace toxic chemicals in your home with these super easy, all-natural homemade dishwashing pods.
They're not only free from harmful chemicals but also incredibly cost-effective, saving you money while keeping your dishes pristine.
Simply add one pod to your dishwasher for a normal cycle and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with using safe, effective, and natural ingredients..
Key Ingredients:
- Super Washing Soda
- Salt
- Citrus Fresh Essential Oil
- Silicone Molding Trays
Benefits:
- Chemical-Free
- Super Easy to Make
- Saves Money
- All Natural
Pro Tip: Fill your silicone molds only halfway, as a small amount of the mixture is plenty to run through a load of dishes effectively.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Dishwashing Pods
15. Easy 3-Ingredient Dishwasher Tablets
Whip up a batch of these incredibly simple dishwasher tablets with just three ingredients! They're designed to leave your dishes sparkling and save you time and money.
Forget clumpy powders; these easy-to-make tabs are a game-changer for your dishwashing routine..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Citric Acid
- Dish Liquid
Benefits:
- Sparkling Dishes
- Saves Money
- Time-Saving
Pro Tip: Press the mixture firmly into silicone molds to help the tablets hold their shape better.
Get the Recipe: Easy 3-Ingredient Dishwasher Tablets
16. Natural Dishwasher Tablets with Essential Oils
These natural dishwasher tablets are a fantastic way to clean your dishes without harsh chemicals.
They're empowering to make yourself and better for the environment.
If you notice spots on glasses, a few simple tips can help improve results..
Key Ingredients:
- Citric Acid
- Lemon Essential Oil
- Borax
Benefits:
- Environmentally Friendly
- Cost-Effective
- Gentle Cleaning
Pro Tip: Scrape excess food from dishes and stack them properly for the best cleaning results.
Get the Recipe: Natural Dishwasher Tablets with Essential Oils
17. Lemon-Scented Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Save money and ditch the store-bought stuff with this easy homemade dishwasher detergent! Infused with lemon essential oil, it not only smells lovely but also boasts disinfecting properties to tackle germs.
It’s a simple, effective, and budget-friendly way to keep your dishes clean..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Lemon Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Cost-Effective
- Pleasant Scent
- Disinfecting Properties
Pro Tip: If you don’t have lemon essential oil, grapefruit or orange essential oil are great substitutes.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Scented Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
18. Simple & Effective DIY Dishwasher Tablets
These homemade dishwasher tablets are a budget-friendly and effective alternative to commercial cleaners.
They’re designed to get your dishes sparkling without harsh chemicals, making them a great choice for a healthier home.
Making them yourself is easy and rewarding!.
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Lemon Juice
Benefits:
- Cost Savings
- Reduces Chemicals
- Effective Cleaning
Pro Tip: Store your finished tablets in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a month.
Get the Recipe: Simple & Effective DIY Dishwasher Tablets
19. Natural, Non-Toxic Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Discover how to make your own natural, non-toxic dishwasher detergent that works just as well as the store-bought stuff, but is much kinder to your health and the planet.
It’s a simple recipe that uses common household ingredients for a sparkling clean..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Sea Salt
- Citric Acid
Benefits:
- Non-Toxic
- Cost-Effective
- Safe Ingredients
Pro Tip: Consider using a plastic container for mixing and storing to prevent issues with citric acid reacting to moisture.
Get the Recipe: Natural, Non-Toxic Homemade Dishwasher Detergent