DIY Laundry Soaps

**Why You Should Consider Switching to Homemade Nontoxic Laundry Soap**

Did you know that many of the store-bought laundry soaps, detergents, and softeners we use daily can contain harmful chemicals? These products often include synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other additives that can pose risks to our health, potentially causing skin irritations and respiratory issues. Not to mention, the environmental impact they have due to the presence of non-biodegradable substances.

I'm excited to share that I recently took the plunge and started making my own DIY laundry soaps. Not only is it free of harmful chemicals, but it's also simple to make and cost-effective in the long run. By using a few basic, natural ingredients, I've created a product that cleans my clothes just as effectively without the drawbacks.

The benefits of making your own laundry soap extend beyond health. You'll notice savings on your grocery bill over time, and you can rest assured knowing that your laundry habits are more environmentally friendly. Making the switch has been a win-win for me, providing peace of mind regarding my health and savings.

Have you considered making your own laundry products? Trust me, it's worth a try!

For Detergent:

Ingredients:

- 7 oz (2/3 cup) Super Washing Soda

- 1.5 oz (3 Tbsp) Baking Soda

- 1/2 cup Liquid Castile Soap (any scent)

- 6 cups Water, divided

Instructions:

1. Boil Water: Begin by bringing 6 cups of water to a boil.

2. Dissolve Washing Soda: In a large glass bowl, combine the washing soda with 2 cups of the boiling water. Stir slowly until the washing soda is fully dissolved.

3. Add Baking Soda: Gradually add baking soda, one tablespoon at a time, stirring thoroughly to combine. The mixture will become thicker and resemble a pudding-like texture. You may use a blender if needed.

4. Combine with Castile Soap: Gently stir in the Castile soap until well incorporated.

5. Mix in Remaining Water: Slowly add the remaining 4 cups of boiling water, stirring continuously.

6. Cool and Mix: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. It may separate as it cools, so blend or whisk until smooth.

7. Store: Transfer the finished liquid detergent into a glass bottle. Use 1/4 cup per laundry load, or as you would with any other detergent.

Additional Information:

- This DIY detergent is environmentally friendly, scoring an A on the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Healthy Cleaning scale. The ingredients—baking soda, washing soda, and Castile soap—have each received the highest safety rating, emphasizing protection for humans and the environment from harmful chemicals.

- Economically smart, this detergent only costs about $0.23 per load, compared to approximately $0.32 per load for some commercial brands.

Enjoy clean, fresh laundry without compromising on your budget or the planet!

For Softener:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups Epsom salt (unscented or scented)

- 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oil (e.g., lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) SKIP THIS STEP IF USING SCENTED EPSOM SALT

Directions:

1. Pour the Epsom salt into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid.

2. Add 20-30 drops of your chosen essential oil to the salt. Adjust the quantity to your preferred scent strength.

3. Close the lid and shake well to distribute the essential oil evenly.

4. Store the jar in a cool, dry place.

Usage:

For each load of laundry, add about one tablespoon of the Epsom salt mixture to the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine. Enjoy naturally soft clothes with a gentle, fragrant touch!

For the Dryer Sheets:

Ingredients:

- 10 ounces of white distilled vinegar

- 2 ounces of water

- 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oil (e.g., lavender, orange, or peppermint)

Directions:

1. Pour 10 ounces of white distilled vinegar into a spray bottle.

2. Add 2 ounces of water to the bottle.

3. Add 20-30 drops of your chosen essential oil. Adjust the number of drops for your preferred scent strength.

4. Secure the lid on the spray bottle and shake well to combine.

Usage:

1. Take a piece of extra fabric or a washcloth and designate it as your dryer sheet.

2. Before each use, shake the spray bottle well.

3. Generously spray the fabric or washcloth with the homemade softener solution.

4. Place it in the dryer with your laundry and enjoy naturally softened and fresh-scented clothes!