How to Make Your Own Laundry Detergent for $.06 a Load

Explore Guides

Start the Guide ›

How to Make Your Own Laundry Detergent for $.06 a Load

Never pay for name brand detergents again! Make great smelling, super-cleaning detergent that will last for 375 loads! Perfect for HE washers, too.

Jenny R

4.7k Views

Step 1 of 13

All of your ingredients can be found in the laundry section of your local store. At my local Walmart this all rang up to $25.11!

Step 2 of 13

Don't forget your "cauldron!" This 5 gallon bucket with lid cost less than $4

Step 3 of 13

This mix already has a very light laundry scent without the Purex. Fels Naptha can be replaced by Zote or, for more sensitive skin, Ivory. Make sure you use more than 20oz of soap product.

Step 4 of 13

Oxygen cleaner is optional, but it'll give that extra cleaning boost. I chose Sun brand because it was the cheapest. I also LOVE that fresh laundry smell so I threw in some Purex Crystals. Mmmm

Step 5 of 13

Take your finest cheese grater and grate your soap. You can try to use a food processor, but I don't recommend it. Don't worry, this is the only hard part!

Step 6 of 13

Begin by layering some of each product, mix well with a large spoon. Repeat this layering (I did 6 layers) and continue mixing as you go on.

Step 7 of 13

SECURELY put the lid on your bucket and give it a few rolls on the floor for a final mix. FUN!

Step 8 of 13

For a little more convenience, choose a storage container (or use the Purex bottle). Cut off the label. If you're feeling super crafty you can definitely decorate this!

Step 9 of 13

Make a paper funnel and fill your container with some of your homemade detergent

Step 10 of 13

All done! Pretty :) and it smells FANTASTIC! Get ready for your mind to be blown....

Step 11 of 13

Here's the best part: for an average load you only need 2 TABLESPOONS. That's right! If you're using the Purex bottle it's the middle line. Adjust detergent amount for load size and how soiled it is.

Step 12 of 13

To give you an idea of how AWESOME this detergent is, here is a before & after of my microfiber mopping pad. I've thrown these in the wash before and they've never looked this good

Step 13 of 13

This detergent is minimal suds (but don't worry, it's working!), which makes it perfect or HE washers. Feel free to tweak the recipe to your family's needs. Like I said, oxiclean is highly recommended

You're Done

Follow this author & check out some other guides!