DIY Laundry soap
Mar 19, 2012 So, I already blogged about how I made some dishwashing soap. I know, it totally blows your mind. I’ve made 2 batches so far: tea tree and lemongrass. I have plans to also make Orange, using (super cheap!) essential oils from here. I also ordered more lye from there, for quite cheap.
Shortly after both batches cured, I decided to try to use my soap to make some laundry soap. Previously I had used Fels Naptha, and while it worked fine I just didn’t like the smell.
The Fels Naptha bars are 5.5oz, so I used 7 ounces of my soap, just for a little more cleaning power. I grated it up just the same, and essentially followed this recipe. I use 1 cup of borax and 1 cup of washing soda, though, and I no longer dilute it with water — I just it full strength right from the bucket.
My laundry soap turned out white and creamy, instead of separated and chunky. It has more of a laundry-soap consistency, which I think is interesting. As far as cleaning power goes, it works exactly the same IMO. What I love is that I can make it for pretty cheap, scent it to my liking, and use it both for dishes and for laundry.
Even if you don’t make your own soap, you should totally make your own detergent. I can’t believe how easy it is, and it makes a whopping 5 gallons at a time. For a family our size, we go through it pretty quickly, but I can’t imagine buying commercial detergents anymore.
So satisfying, and really thrifty. Yay!
Reader Comments (2)
I keep wanting to make some but have yet to run out of the soap we have. Also, I can't seem to find Washing Soda anywhere (which the recipe I had planned to use calls for). I was thinking I'd use zote soap for my bar, since I know where to get that, but would totally buy a hunk offa you if I had the opportunity. ;)
I like Fels Naptha because it actually melts down when you cook it on the stovetop -- I found it at big box stores (including Target), but I'll send you a little somethin'-somethin' because I love you so.
Also, check out this pin for making your own washing soda -- you only need a cup at a time, so it may be worth it. I'm going to try it out myself just to see. :)