The Ultimate Laundry Detergent Recipe: Reduce Expenses And Enhance Fabric Care

Laundry detergent is an essential household item, but it can be expensive and harsh on the environment. If you’re looking for a more affordable and eco-friendly alternative, making your own HE laundry detergent is a great option. HE (high efficiency) detergents are designed for use in high-efficiency washing machines, which use less water and energy than traditional models.

Benefits of Making Your Own HE Laundry Detergent

There are several benefits to making your own HE laundry detergent:

• Cost-effective: Homemade HE detergent is significantly cheaper than commercial options.
• Eco-friendly: Homemade detergents are typically made with natural ingredients that are biodegradable and non-toxic.
• Customized: You can tailor your detergent to your specific needs, such as adding essential oils for fragrance or using different ingredients for different types of stains.
• Reduced packaging waste: Making your own detergent eliminates the need for plastic bottles and containers.

What You’ll Need

To make your own HE laundry detergent, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup borax
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1/2 cup grated laundry soap (e.g., Fels-Naptha, Zote)
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 10-15 drops essential oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the borax, washing soda, baking soda, and grated laundry soap.
2. Add the essential oil (optional): If desired, add 10-15 drops of essential oil to the mixture. This will give your detergent a fresh scent.
3. Store the detergent: Transfer the detergent to an airtight container for storage.

How to Use HE Laundry Detergent

To use your homemade HE laundry detergent, simply add 1-2 tablespoons to the detergent dispenser of your washing machine. For heavily soiled loads, you may need to use more detergent.

Tips

• For a more concentrated detergent, use 2 cups of borax and 2 cups of washing soda.
• If you don’t have grated laundry soap, you can use a bar of soap and grate it yourself.
• You can adjust the amount of essential oil to your liking.
• Store your detergent in a cool, dry place.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any problems with your homemade HE laundry detergent, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Detergent is not dissolving: Make sure the water temperature is hot enough. You may also need to stir the detergent before adding it to the washing machine.
• Laundry is not getting clean: Try using more detergent or adding a stain remover to the wash.
• Detergent is leaving a residue on clothes: Use less detergent or rinse the clothes twice.

Takeaways: Empowering Your Laundry Routine

Making your own HE laundry detergent is a simple and rewarding way to save money, reduce your environmental impact, and customize your laundry experience. By following these instructions and troubleshooting tips, you can create a detergent that meets your specific needs and leaves your clothes clean and fresh.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Is homemade HE laundry detergent safe for all fabrics?

A: Yes, homemade HE laundry detergent is safe for all fabrics, including delicates. However, it’s always best to check the care label of your garments before washing.

Q: Can I use homemade HE laundry detergent in my regular washing machine?

A: Yes, but you may need to use less detergent than you would with commercial HE detergent. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust as needed.

Q: How long does homemade HE laundry detergent last?

A: Homemade HE laundry detergent can last up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.