Are you tired of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances in your laundry detergent? As an artist and craftsman at Robert Kline Art, I’m always looking for natural alternatives, and that includes what I use to clean our clothes! That’s why I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for DIY natural laundry detergent. This recipe is not only easy on the environment but also gentle on your skin and your wallet.
Why Make Your Own Laundry Detergent?
Many commercial laundry detergents are loaded with harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes that can be harmful to our health and the environment. Making your own detergent allows you to control the ingredients and create a product that aligns with your values.
The Problem with Conventional Laundry Detergents
Let’s face it, walking down the cleaning aisle at the grocery store can be an overwhelming experience. The shelves are packed with products promising sparkling clean clothes, but many of them contain hidden toxins like:
- Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances can trigger allergies and respiratory problems.
- Bleach (chlorine): A known irritant that can aggravate skin and lungs.
- Dyes: While they might make your detergent look pretty, dyes serve no cleaning purpose and can be contaminated with heavy metals.
- Phosphates: These cleaning agents can pollute our waterways and harm aquatic life.
These are just a few of the many questionable ingredients lurking in conventional laundry detergents. Thankfully, there’s a better way!
Simple Ingredients for a Powerful Clean
This DIY natural laundry detergent recipe uses just a handful of readily available ingredients:
- Epsom Salt: Softens clothes and helps prevent color fading.
- Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): A natural deodorizer and stain remover.
- Sodium Carbonate (Washing Soda): A powerful cleaning agent that cuts through grease and grime.
- Sea Salt: Helps brighten whites and boost cleaning power.
- Essential Oils (Optional): Add a refreshing scent and antibacterial properties (citrus oils are fantastic for this!).
Making Your Own Natural Laundry Detergent
This recipe is so easy, you can even get the kids involved!
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Mix thoroughly, ensuring the essential oils are fully incorporated.
- Store your DIY laundry detergent in an airtight container, like a glass mason jar.
To Use:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of detergent per load of laundry, adjusting as needed for heavily soiled items. This detergent works well in both cold and warm water.
FAQs About DIY Natural Laundry Detergent
Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:
Q: Will this detergent make suds?
A: This detergent is low-sudsing, similar to many commercially available natural detergents.
Q: What’s the purpose of the salts?
A: Epsom salt softens clothes, while sea salt helps brighten and boost cleaning power.
Q: Is this detergent safe for septic systems?
A: Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are septic-safe.
Q: Can I use this detergent in a high-efficiency washing machine?
A: While I haven’t personally tested it in an HE machine, its low-sudsing formula should be compatible. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your washing machine’s manual.
Embrace a Natural Laundry Routine
This DIY natural laundry detergent is a simple and effective way to ditch the harsh chemicals and embrace a more natural approach to laundry. At Robert Kline Art, we believe that small changes can make a big difference, and this is a great place to start. Give this recipe a try and experience the difference!
Do you have any natural cleaning tips or recipes to share? Let’s connect in the comments below!
Looking for unique handmade gifts? Explore our collection of handcrafted treasures at Robert Kline Art.