Making your own laundry detergent is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to store-bought options, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities to commercial products like dryer sheets. Here's a simple recipe for a homemade laundry detergent that should be gentle on your skin:
Ingredients:
- 1 bar of unscented castile soap or a mild soap of your choice (look for one without harsh chemicals or fragrances)
- Washing soda (sodium carbonate)
- Borax (sodium borate) (Note: Borax can be irritating to some individuals, so if you're sensitive to it, omit it from the recipe.)
Instructions:
Grate the soap: Using a cheese grater, grate the bar of soap into fine shavings. If you prefer, you can chop the soap into small pieces and blend it in a food processor until it becomes a fine powder.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of grated soap with 1 cup of washing soda and 1 cup of borax (if you're using it). Stir the ingredients thoroughly until well mixed. If you omitted borax, simply use 2 parts washing soda to 1 part grated soap.
Store the detergent: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or a glass jar with a lid for storage. Make sure to label the container for future reference.
Usage: For each load of laundry, use about 2-3 tablespoons of the homemade detergent. You can adjust the quantity based on the size of your load and how soiled the clothes are.
Additional Tips:
If you miss the scent of commercial laundry detergents, you can add a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus) to the mix. However, be cautious and perform a patch test to ensure the essential oils don't cause any irritation.
Always check the care labels on your clothing to ensure they can be washed with homemade detergent.
For extra sensitive skin, consider using white vinegar as a natural fabric softener. Add it to the fabric softener dispenser of your washing machine or during the rinse cycle.
If you find this detergent isn't working well for your laundry needs or skin sensitivity, consider trying a different recipe or consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice.
Remember that while homemade detergents are generally more gentle, individual reactions can still vary. If you experience any skin irritation or discomfort, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.