How To Make Borax Free Laundry Detergent
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If you’re looking to take control of the ingredients in your laundry routine, making your own detergent is a fantastic place to start. Many store-bought detergents contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin or harm the environment.
One common ingredient in homemade detergents is borax, but some people prefer to avoid it due to concerns about potential irritation. This borax-free laundry detergent is gentle, effective, and safe for both your clothes and the environment.
Why Go Borax-Free?
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral, but there are concerns about its safety, particularly for children and pets. While generally considered safe in small quantities, it can cause skin irritation and isn’t suitable for those with sensitivities. By creating a borax-free version, you can still achieve clean clothes while reducing potential health risks.
Borax-Free Laundry Detergent Recipe
This easy, affordable recipe is made from natural ingredients you likely already have around the house. It’s free from harsh chemicals and still powerful enough to tackle everyday stains and grime.
Ingredients:
- 1 bar of natural soap (Castile soap, Dr. Bronner’s, or any natural unscented soap)
- 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate)
- 1 cup baking soda
- Optional: 10-15 drops of essential oil (lavender, lemon, or tea tree for added fragrance and antibacterial properties)
Directions:
- Grate the Soap: Using a cheese grater or food processor, finely grate the bar of soap until it becomes a powder.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the grated soap with the washing soda and baking soda. Stir until well combined.
- Add Essential Oils: If you’re adding essential oils, now’s the time to drop them in. Mix again to distribute the oils evenly throughout the detergent.
- Store: Transfer the detergent into an airtight container. A mason jar or any container with a lid works well. Store in a cool, dry place.
Usage:
- Use 2-3 tablespoons per load for a standard washing machine.
- For larger or heavily soiled loads, use a little extra detergent.
Tips for Making and Using Borax-Free Detergent
- Use Hot Water for Tough Stains: Since this recipe doesn’t contain borax or synthetic chemicals, using hot water will help lift tough stains like grease and oil.
- Vinegar as Fabric Softener: If you’re looking for an all-natural fabric softener, use white vinegar in the rinse cycle. It helps soften clothes and removes soap residue.
- Safe for HE Machines: This recipe works well in both regular and high-efficiency (HE) washing machines. Since it’s low-sudsing, it won’t create too many bubbles, which is ideal for HE machines.
- Test with Delicates: If you have delicate fabrics or silk, do a test run with a small load to ensure your clothes won’t be damaged. For delicates, washing on a cold or gentle cycle is recommended.
Common Questions About Borax-Free Laundry Detergent
Q: Can I use this detergent in cold water?
- Yes, you can use this detergent in cold water, but for heavy stains or oil-based dirt, it works best in warm or hot water.
Q: How long does homemade detergent last?
- Stored in an airtight container, this detergent can last up to 6 months. Just be sure to keep it dry and away from moisture.
Q: Is this detergent safe for sensitive skin?
- Absolutely. Since this recipe avoids harsh chemicals and borax, it’s a great option for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Opt for an unscented soap and skip the essential oils if you have extreme sensitivities.
Q: Will this detergent work for cloth diapers?
- Yes! This borax-free detergent is gentle enough for cloth diapers and will effectively clean them without leaving behind harmful residue.
Q: Can I add other ingredients like OxiClean?
- If you want an extra boost for whitening or tough stain removal, you can add an oxygen booster like OxiClean. Just keep in mind that this changes the borax-free nature of the detergent.
Final Thoughts
Making your own borax-free laundry detergent is a great way to reduce the chemical load in your home while saving money. With a few simple ingredients, you can create an eco-friendly and effective detergent that’s gentle on both your clothes and your skin. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!
