Making your own cleaning products can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to keep your home fresh and clean, all while reducing exposure to harsh chemicals.
If you're looking to simplify your laundry routine with gentle, effective, and natural solutions, you've come to the right place.
We've gathered some fantastic DIY powdered laundry detergent recipes that are easy to whip up and leave your clothes smelling wonderful..
Table of Contents
1. Simple 3-Ingredient Powdered Laundry Detergent
This super simple recipe uses just three key ingredients to create a powerful, natural laundry detergent.
It's a budget-friendly way to get brilliantly clean clothes without any harsh chemicals.
Adding essential oils infuses your laundry with a delightful, natural scent while boosting cleansing properties.
It's a must-try for anyone seeking a cleaner, greener laundry day..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Grated Bar Soap
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Reduces toxins
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: For an extra boost, add a tablespoon of oxygen whitener to particularly dirty loads or for brightening whites.
Get the Recipe: Simple 3-Ingredient Powdered Laundry Detergent
2. Easy Homemade Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
Say goodbye to expensive store-bought detergents with this easy homemade recipe! It uses only four simple ingredients, including gentle castile soap, and costs just a fraction of the price per load.
This blend is perfect for families, especially those with sensitive skin, as it avoids common irritants like artificial fragrances and dyes.
Your clothes will come out clean and beautifully fresh..
Key Ingredients:
- Castile Soap Bars
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Customizable scent
Pro Tip: If you encounter tough stains, pre-treat them with a mixture of dish soap and water before washing.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
3. Budget-Friendly Powdered Laundry Detergent
This incredibly cost-effective recipe allows you to make a year's supply of laundry detergent for around $21! It's a fantastic way to save money without compromising on clean clothes.
The simple formula tackles tough stains and leaves your laundry smelling fresh.
It’s a must-try for anyone looking to cut down on household expenses and switch to a more natural option..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Fels Naptha Bars
- Oxyclean
Benefits:
- Extremely affordable
- Effective stain removal
- Long-lasting
Pro Tip: Using dryer balls instead of dryer sheets can help fluff clothes and reduce drying time.
Get the Recipe: Budget-Friendly Powdered Laundry Detergent
4. Easy DIY Powder Laundry Detergent for HE Washers
This DIY laundry detergent is a game-changer for busy households! It's compatible with high-efficiency (HE) washers and comes together in a snap.
You'll be amazed at how clean your clothes get, and the fresh scent will impress everyone.
At under $.10 per load, it’s a wallet-friendly choice that’s also gentle and effective..
Key Ingredients:
- OxiClean
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Baking Soda
- Fels-Naptha Soap
- Downy Unstopables
Benefits:
- Affordable
- Works with HE washers
- Leaves clothes smelling great
Pro Tip: Store a portion of your detergent in an old OxiClean container for easy scooping next to your washer.
Get the Recipe: Easy DIY Powder Laundry Detergent for HE Washers
5. Non-Toxic Powder Laundry Detergent
Transitioning to a non-toxic laundry routine has never been easier with this simple powder detergent.
It cleans effectively, smells wonderful, and is made with wholesome ingredients.
Perfect for those looking to reduce toxins in their home, this recipe is also wallet-friendly.
You'll love how fresh and clean your laundry feels..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Grated Bar Soap
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Affordable
- Pleasant natural scent
Pro Tip: While effective for most laundry, some users find it works best for everything *but* cloth diapers.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Powder Laundry Detergent
6. Homemade Powdered Laundry Soap
This easy-to-make powdered laundry soap is a fantastic alternative to commercial detergents, free from a long list of harsh chemicals.
It works wonders on your clothes, leaving them clean and fresh.
A little goes a long way, with just two tablespoons needed per large load, making it a very economical choice for your household..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Grated Bar Soap
Benefits:
- Chemical-free
- Effective cleaning
- Economical
Pro Tip: Make a double batch and store it in a 5-gallon bucket, keeping a smaller container with a measuring spoon near your washing machine.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Powdered Laundry Soap
7. Natural Powdered Laundry Detergent
Looking for a DIY laundry detergent that actually works? This recipe delivers spotless, fresh-smelling clothes without the high cost or toxic ingredients of store-bought options.
It's easy to whip up a batch in about 10 minutes and costs significantly less per year than conventional detergents, leaving you with more money for coffee beans!.
Key Ingredients:
- Grated Soap Bars
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Reduces toxins
- Saves money
- Easy to make
Pro Tip: Use coconut oil soap bars for a great cleaning power without added oils that can make clothes greasy.
Get the Recipe: Natural Powdered Laundry Detergent
8. DIY Natural Laundry Detergent (No Bar Soap)
This simple and natural laundry detergent recipe is ready in under 5 minutes and uses pantry staples, meaning no bar soap needed! It's incredibly cost-effective, working out to about $.08 per load, saving you money compared to even the least expensive store-bought options.
Plus, it's gentle on your family and the environment, avoiding harmful chemicals and plastic waste..
Key Ingredients:
- Sea Salt
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Epsom Salt
Benefits:
- No bar soap needed
- Eco-friendly
- Reduces plastic waste
Pro Tip: Consider adding lemon essential oil for its natural brightening power.
Get the Recipe: DIY Natural Laundry Detergent (No Bar Soap)
9. Cost-Effective Homemade Laundry Powder
Whip up this simple, cost-effective homemade laundry powder in no time! It's a fantastic alternative that works great at cleaning your clothes and costs only about 4 cents per load.
While the initial ingredient cost might be higher, it lasts a long time.
This recipe is perfect for busy households and gentle enough for all water temperatures..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Borax
- Laundry Soap Bar
Benefits:
- Very affordable per load
- Effective cleaning
- Works in all water temperatures
Pro Tip: Grate your laundry soap bar as finely as possible (using a zester is ideal) for better dissolution in the wash.
Get the Recipe: Cost-Effective Homemade Laundry Powder
10. Simple DIY Powdered Laundry Detergent
This recipe offers a super cost-effective and customizable laundry detergent.
You can skip the harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances found in store-bought options, tailoring it perfectly for sensitive skin.
Plus, by using reusable containers, you're significantly reducing plastic waste and doing your part for the planet..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Baby Oxiclean (optional)
- Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Customizable
- Reduced waste
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: Add 15 drops of essential oils like wild orange for a lovely, natural scent to your detergent.
Get the Recipe: Simple DIY Powdered Laundry Detergent
11. Three-Ingredient Powder Laundry Detergent
Looking for a super quick and effective laundry solution? This three-ingredient powdered detergent takes just about fifteen minutes to make and cleans perfectly.
While it doesn't have added perfumes like store-bought options, you can easily add your favorite fabric softener or scent pebbles for a lovely aroma..
Key Ingredients:
- Grated Laundry Bar
- Borax
- Washing Soda
Benefits:
- Quick to make
- Saves money
- Effective cleaning
Pro Tip: For better cleaning power on whites or heavily stained items, consider adding a bit of bleach or Oxi-Clean powder to your wash.
Get the Recipe: Three-Ingredient Powder Laundry Detergent
12. Easy Powder Laundry Detergent with Baking Soda
This easy-to-make powder laundry detergent uses baking soda for its natural cleaning and deodorizing powers.
It helps balance water pH, leading to a gentler wash and longer-lasting fabrics.
Plus, it acts as a color booster, keeping whites brighter and colors more vibrant..
Key Ingredients:
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Grated Castile Bar Soap
- Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Cleans and deodorizes
- Gentle on fabrics
- Boosts colors
- Natural softener
Pro Tip: To help essential oils mix better, combine them with a small amount of baking soda before adding to the main mixture.
Get the Recipe: Easy Powder Laundry Detergent with Baking Soda
13. Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent with Essential Oils
This non-toxic laundry detergent is a fantastic way to keep your clothes clean and fresh, naturally.
It uses simple ingredients that are gentle on fabrics and tough on grime.
Adding essential oils like lavender or tea tree not only provides a pleasant scent but also offers natural antibacterial properties..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Salt
- Epsom Salts
- DoTerra Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic formula
- Gentle on skin
- Natural fragrance
- Environmentally friendly
Pro Tip: Try using Adaptiv and Lemon essential oils for a refreshing and calming scent in your laundry.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent with Essential Oils
14. DIY Powdered Laundry Detergent with Dr. Bronner's Soap
This homemade laundry detergent recipe is a game-changer, especially when using Dr.
Bronner's pure castile soap! It’s so easy to make and results in a natural detergent that gets clothes clean and fresh without any sudsy bubbles.
The combination with essential oils like lemon and lavender smells terrific..
Key Ingredients:
- Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap
- Borax
- Super Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Natural and pure ingredients
- Saves money
- Pleasantly scented
- Effective cleaning
Pro Tip: If you like a very fine powder, run the ingredients through a food processor, stopping to stir occasionally.
Get the Recipe: DIY Powdered Laundry Detergent with Dr. Bronner's Soap
15. HE-Compatible Powdered Laundry Detergent
This recipe is perfect for your high-efficiency washing machine and is incredibly easy to make.
It avoids the excessive suds that can cause buildup in HE washers.
You can experiment with small batches to find what works best for your machine, ensuring clean clothes without the worry of damaging your appliance..
Key Ingredients:
- Grated Laundry Soap
- Washing Soda
- Oxygen-based Brightener or Oxiclean
- Baking Soda
Benefits:
- Works in HE machines
- Keeps colors vibrant
- Brightens whites
- Easy to make
Pro Tip: For white loads, add an extra tablespoon of OxyClean or another oxygen-based brightener along with your homemade detergent.
Get the Recipe: HE-Compatible Powdered Laundry Detergent
16. Easy Powdered Laundry Detergent with Washing Soda and Borax
This simple powdered laundry detergent recipe is a budget-friendly way to get your clothes sparkling clean.
It uses just a few basic ingredients like washing soda and borax to effectively tackle dirt and odors.
It’s super easy to mix up and stores beautifully, making laundry day a breeze.
You'll love how fresh and clean your clothes feel, all while saving money..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Bar Soap
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Easy to make
- Cleans effectively
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the mix for a natural, subtle scent.
Get the Recipe: Easy Powdered Laundry Detergent with Washing Soda and Borax
17. Natural Powder Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
Discover the power of natural cleaning with this simple powdered laundry detergent.
Featuring castile soap, washing soda, and borax, this recipe is designed for effective cleaning without harsh chemicals.
It's low-sudsing, making it a perfect choice for high-efficiency washers.
Enjoy fresh, clean clothes with a recipe you can trust..
Key Ingredients:
- Castile Soap
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Baking Soda
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Low-sudsing
- Safe for HE washers
Pro Tip: If you prefer a scent-free detergent, use unscented castile soap and skip the essential oils.
Get the Recipe: Natural Powder Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
18. Budget-Friendly Laundry Powder with Epsom Salt
This homemade laundry powder is a dream for those seeking a non-toxic, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly cleaning solution.
Combining Epsom salt, baking soda, washing soda, and sea salt, it gently yet effectively cleans your clothes.
It's a fantastic option for sensitive skin and a great step towards sustainable living..
Key Ingredients:
- Epsom Salt
- Baking Soda
- Washing Soda
- Sea Salt
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Eco-friendly
- Gentle on sensitive skin
Pro Tip: Add a splash of white vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener for extra softness.
Get the Recipe: Budget-Friendly Laundry Powder with Epsom Salt
19. Simple Powdered Detergent with Fels Naptha Soap
Whip up this incredibly easy powdered laundry detergent using Fels Naptha soap.
It's a fantastic way to get that boutique-style laundry scent at a fraction of the cost.
This recipe is designed to be effective and long-lasting, saving you money and effort.
Your clothes will smell amazing, and your wallet will thank you..
Key Ingredients:
- Fels Naptha Soap
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- OxiClean
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Long-lasting
- Effective stain removal
Pro Tip: Keep a bar of Fels Naptha by the washer for quick stain removal – just rub it directly onto the stain!
Get the Recipe: Simple Powdered Detergent with Fels Naptha Soap
20. Easy Natural Powder Laundry Soap
This natural homemade powder laundry soap is surprisingly easy to make and incredibly cost-effective, costing a fraction of store-bought options.
It’s gentle enough for HE machines and tough on dirt, leaving clothes smelling fresh.
It’s a simple step towards a more natural and peaceful home..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Borax
- Soap Bar
Benefits:
- Economical
- Natural ingredients
- Suitable for HE washers
Pro Tip: Add 1-2 tablespoons directly to the washer drum for HE machines to avoid clogging dispensers.
Get the Recipe: Easy Natural Powder Laundry Soap
21. Microwave-Friendly Laundry Detergent Powder
Tired of grating soap? This clever recipe uses the microwave to soften soap for easy breaking into powder, perfect for laundry.
Combined with washing soda and borax, it’s a surprisingly effective and economical way to get your clothes clean, especially in hard water.
It's a fun and fast method for homemade detergent..
Key Ingredients:
- Ivory Soap
- Washing Soda
- Borax
Benefits:
- No grating required
- Effective in hard water
- Economical
Pro Tip: This powder works best in hot water, but can be used on cold for lightly soiled loads.
Get the Recipe: Microwave-Friendly Laundry Detergent Powder
22. Simple 3-Ingredient Powder Laundry Soap
This incredibly simple, three-ingredient powdered laundry soap is a game-changer for saving money and going natural.
Made with castile soap, washing soda, and baking soda, it’s gentle enough for babies and sensitive skin.
You only need a couple of tablespoons per load, making a little go a long way for perfectly clean clothes..
Key Ingredients:
- Castile Soap Bar
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: Add your favorite essential oils like lavender or wild orange for a lovely, natural scent.
Get the Recipe: Simple 3-Ingredient Powder Laundry Soap
23. All-Natural Laundry Detergent Powder
Create your own all-natural laundry detergent with this quick and cost-effective recipe.
Using just a few natural ingredients, this powder is effective at cleaning your clothes without harsh chemicals or overpowering synthetic fragrances.
It's a healthy and budget-friendly choice for your household..
Key Ingredients:
- Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap
- Washing Soda
- Borax
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Free of toxic chemicals
- Natural scents
Pro Tip: For a natural scent, add 10-12 drops of essential oils like lavender or peppermint.
Get the Recipe: All-Natural Laundry Detergent Powder
24. Simple Powdered Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
This recipe is a fantastic way to create your own effective laundry detergent using just a few key ingredients.
It focuses on Castile soap, washing soda, and baking soda, making it a gentle yet powerful cleaner.
It's designed to be non-toxic and biodegradable, leaving your clothes fresh without any harsh chemicals.
You'll love how easy it is to make and how well it works for everyday loads..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Baking Soda
- Liquid Castile Soap
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Biodegradable
- Cost-effective
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils, like lavender or lemon, for a subtle and natural fragrance.
Get the Recipe: Simple Powdered Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
25. Fels-Naptha and Borax Laundry Detergent Powder
This robust homemade laundry detergent uses Fels-Naptha soap as its base, known for tackling tough stains.
Combined with Borax and laundry soda, it creates a powerful cleaning powder that's budget-friendly and effective.
It’s a must-try for those looking for an economical way to keep clothes sparkling clean, and it works well even in cold water washes..
Key Ingredients:
- Fels-Naptha Soap
- Borax
- Laundry Soda
Benefits:
- Tackles tough stains
- Cost-effective
- Works in cold water
- Economical
Pro Tip: For extra cleaning power on whites, add a scoop of OxiClean to your load.
Get the Recipe: Fels-Naptha and Borax Laundry Detergent Powder
26. Natural Laundry Soap with Essential Oils
This recipe offers a natural and effective laundry soap solution, using ingredients like Borax, washing soda, and a Castile or Fels Naptha soap bar.
It’s designed to be made in a large batch, lasting for many loads and saving you money.
You can easily customize it with your favorite essential oils for a delightful fresh scent, making laundry day a little more pleasant..
Key Ingredients:
- Borax
- Washing Soda
- Castile Soap Bar
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Natural ingredients
- Large batch makes many loads
- Customizable scent
- Eco-friendly
Pro Tip: If you prefer an unscented detergent, simply omit the essential oils.
Get the Recipe: Natural Laundry Soap with Essential Oils
27. Ultimate DIY Powdered Laundry Soap (No Baking Soda)
This improved DIY laundry soap recipe leaves out baking soda, focusing on washing soda and citric acid for a powerful clean.
It's formulated to prevent dinginess on white clothes over time, making your laundry look brighter.
The recipe is designed for simplicity and effectiveness, ensuring your clothes come out clean and fresh without harsh chemicals..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Citric Acid
- Castile Soap Bar
Benefits:
- Prevents dinginess
- Effective cleaning
- Simple to make
- Brightens clothes
Pro Tip: Store the powder in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent clumping.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate DIY Powdered Laundry Soap (No Baking Soda)
28. Quick and Easy Powdered Laundry Detergent
This homemade laundry powder detergent is your go-to for a natural and effective cleaning solution when you're short on time.
With just four simple ingredients, you can mix up a batch in minutes.
It's a convenient choice that skips cooking or blending, perfect for busy households who want to avoid unnecessary chemicals..
Key Ingredients:
- Pure Soap Flakes
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Baking Soda
Benefits:
- Quick to prepare
- Easy to store
- Natural ingredients
- Free from chemicals
Pro Tip: For HE washers, add the powder directly to the drum to ensure it dissolves fully.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Powdered Laundry Detergent
29. Simple DIY Laundry Detergent Recipe
This easy-to-make DIY laundry detergent costs around $40 for a year's supply, making it incredibly budget-friendly.
It's formulated to work well even in cold water and is suitable for both front-loaders and HE machines.
You can customize the scent with optional scent beads, or leave them out for a more natural approach..
Key Ingredients:
- Bar Soap
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Baking Soda
- Scent Beads (optional)
Benefits:
- Saves money
- Lasts a year
- Effective in cold water
- Customizable scent
Pro Tip: Microwave your bar soap until puffy, then crumble it for an easy way to create powder.
Get the Recipe: Simple DIY Laundry Detergent Recipe
30. Clean, Simple, and Natural DIY Laundry Detergent
This DIY laundry detergent is a fantastic way to reduce your exposure to harsh chemicals while keeping your clothes fresh and clean.
It’s effective, customizable with essential oils, and environmentally friendly.
You control exactly what goes into your wash, ensuring a non-toxic and natural clean for your family..
Key Ingredients:
- Washing Soda
- Borax
- Baking Soda
- Epsom Salt
- Grated Soap (optional)
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Eco-friendly
- Customizable scent
- Reduces chemical exposure
Pro Tip: If you have hard water, adding a little extra Borax can boost cleaning performance.
Get the Recipe: Clean, Simple, and Natural DIY Laundry Detergent