Homemade Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent is Easy to Make
This recipe of How to Make Easy Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent is perfect for anyone who wants to reduce the amount of toxins your body is exposed to. Not only is the laundry soap non-toxic and easy to make, but it saves you money, especially in the long run. If you love how-to recipes, check out my homemade recipes, too.
The most important thing about this recipe is there are two types of soap elements: Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar Soap and Stain Remover or Zote Laundry Flakes. Technically, you could use a regular bar of soap, but it will not be as effective as the laundry bar or flakes in removing stains. If you use the laundry bar, you will need to grate the bar, or you can buy flakes already in small pieces. Either one works great.
I started using this homemade laundry detergent because it’s non-toxic and not bad for you, but I personally like it, too. It’s really good for typical, normal laundry stuff. If my kids’ clothes from sports are very stinky, I still keep some Tide pods around to put one in with those loads along with this laundry recipe.
For a non-toxic fabric softener, you can use white vinegar. It naturally softens fabric, reduces static, and freshens your clothing. Put 1/4-1/2 cup of white vinegar in the softener bin with each load. In the place of dryer sheets, you can use dryer balls, which also help reduce static, soften clothes, and prevent wrinkles. I use white vinegar and dryer balls to not add more chemicals to my clothing. However, I do keep dryer sheets for a dress or skirt that is prone to static cling, so it does not stick to me when I wear it.
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Step-by-Step Photos for How to Make Easy Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent
Can I use this laundry detergent for a cold batch?
Warm or hot water works the best because it dissolves the soap. For a cold batch of laundry, dissolve the laundry detergent in a cup of hot water, and then add it to the washing machine. The specks of soap need a little encouragement to dissolve. You can also start a batch with a little hot water to dissolve the specks of soap. Then add the clothes and switch to the desired water temperature.
Is this homemade laundry detergent safe for HE washing machines?
Yes, it is safe for both high-efficiency and regular washing machines. Having said that, check your owner’s manual because some manufacturers will void the warranty if you do not use detergent specifically made for HE washing machines.
Will a regular bar of soap work?
Technically, you could use a regular bar of soap, but it will not be as effective as the laundry bar or flakes in removing stains.
Is there a non-toxic fabric softener?
Yes, white vinegar. It naturally softens fabric, reduces static, and freshens your clothing. Put 1/4-1/2 cup of white vinegar in the softener bin for each load. You can also use dryer balls, which help soften clothes and reduce static.
How should I store the laundry detergent?
In an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Tools for Making Homemade Laundry Detergent:
- Borax
- Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
- FELS-NAPTHA Soap Bar
- ZOTE Laundry Flakes
- Laundry Detergent Containers
- Dryer Balls
Popular "How to Make" Recipes
- 3 cups Borax
- 3 cups Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
- 1 (5 ounce) bar of FELS-Naphtha Soap, finely grated, or 2 cups of ZOTE Laundry Flakes
- Mix all ingredients in a large jar or bowl that has a lid.
- Next, add 2-3 tbsp per load of laundry.
- Use warm or hot water and white vinegar instead of fabric softener for best results.
- Using dryer balls in the dryer can also help with static cling without adding more chemicals to your clothes.
More Homemade "How to" Recipes
Hello! Wondering how many loads this makes? Thank you
Hi, Sam. It varies on the size of your load and how much you add to your load, so it could be anywhere between 25-45 loads.