Save Money with This Easy Homemade Laundry Detergent
Making your own laundry detergent might sound like a chore from another era, but it’s actually one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to save money while keeping your laundry clean and fresh. For less than five cents a load, you can skip the pricey store-bought detergents, reduce packaging waste, and take control of exactly what’s touching your clothes. Whether you’re short on time, budget-conscious, or just curious about DIY cleaning, this guide walks you step by step through liquid homemade laundry detergent.
I’ll admit it. I used to think making my own laundry detergent was silly. Seriously, I’d rather have shoved toothpicks under my fingernails than be bothered with making my own homemade laundry detergent.Why on earth would anyone bother? Modern convenience, after all, is a beautiful thing.
Oh my, how arrogant and ignorant I was. And deeply, horribly in debt to prove it.
Here’s the thing: making your own detergent doesn’t just save pennies. It’s part of a bigger approach to living smarter. By trimming expenses where it doesn’t matter, you free up money and energy for what truly matters: family, experiences, and peace of mind.
When I finally took the leap, I discovered that I could make a gallon of laundry detergent for less than five cents a load. Compare that to the 25 cents I was paying for store-bought versions, and suddenly what seemed like a hassle became a small but mighty victory.
Look, I’m not saying that making laundry detergent is going to get you out of debt. That one move on its own will, at best, make a small dent in your weekly grocery tab. But add that to hundreds of other changes (hang around me with and I’ll teach you), and your life will change in dramatic ways. Just think about it.
Now, let’s get to the fun part: I’m going to show you exactly how quick and easy it is to make liquid laundry detergent that works beautifully in any machine, even HE washers.
Ingredients You’ll Need and Why They Matter
Making your own liquid laundry detergent is simple, but knowing a bit about what goes in it can help you get the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:
1-Gallon Container with Lid
Choose a sturdy container that seals tightly. It keeps your detergent fresh, prevents spills, and gives you a convenient way to shake the mixture before each use. Clear containers are handy so you can see if crystals form at the bottom. Don’t worry, they’re harmless.
Borax
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral that boosts your detergent’s cleaning power. It helps lift stains, soften water, and enhance the soap’s effectiveness. You can find Twenty-Mule Team Borax or any borax brand at most supermarkets, big-box stores like Walmart or Target, or online.
Washing Soda
Washing soda (sodium carbonate) is the real workhorse of this detergent. It tackles tough grease, brightens whites, and balances pH to help clothes come out soft and clean. You can use Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda, or generic soda ash. Both are the same chemically. Just don’t confuse it with baking soda; this is much stronger and not safe to eat. Soda ash is also sold at pool supply stores as a pH adjuster.
Blue Dawn
Blue Dawn is the key ingredient that gives this detergent its grease-cutting power. While Dawn offers several products (Original, Ultra, Platinum, PowerSuds, Gentle Clean/Free & Clear, and Antibacterial), for this recipe, stick with the classic blue versions like Original, Ultra, Platinum, or PowerSuds. They provide the cleaning strength you need without extra ingredients that aren’t necessary for laundry. A little goes a long way. Just 3/4 cup per gallon makes dozens of loads of effective, homemade detergent.
Water
Plain tap water is perfect. It dissolves and mixes everything, creating a smooth, ready-to-use detergent. Using warm water helps dissolve the powders faster, but it’s not required. Cold water works fine too.
Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Detergent
Making your own liquid detergent is easier than it sounds. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a full gallon ready to go in minutes:
Step 1: Combine the powders
Pour 3/4 cup borax and 3/4 cup washing soda (or soda ash) into your empty one-gallon container.
Step 2: Add water
Pour in about 3 cups of tap water. A few bubbles might form. That’s normal and nothing to worry about.
Step 3: Shake it up
Secure the lid and shake the container vigorously until the powders appear to be dissolving. This ensures the ingredients start mixing evenly. The mixture will look milky at this stage.
Step 4: Fill most of the way
Add more tap water until the container is about an inch from the top. Leave enough room for the Blue Dawn, which comes next.
Step 5: Add the Blue Dawn
Pour in 3/4 cup of your chosen Blue Dawn. Do it slowly to avoid excessive suds.
Step 6: Top off and rinse
Use the measuring cup to add a little extra water and rinse out any remaining Dawn. Then fill the container to within about 1/2 inch of the top.
Step 7: Seal and mix
Put the lid on tightly. Don’t worry if the Dawn hasn’t fully mixed yet. It will.
Step 8: Roll, don’t shake
Instead of shaking, place the container on its side and roll it around a few times. This mixes everything without creating a mess or a mountain of suds. Your counter stays clean, and you avoid the “suds-to-infinity” problem many homemade detergent makers encounter.
Pro tip: Crystals may form at the bottom over time. This is normal. Simply shake or roll the container before each use, crystals and all.
Why Crystals, Clumps, and Separation Are Normal
Quick reassurance: If your homemade detergent separates, gets cloudy, or forms crystals, nothing has gone wrong.
Borax and washing soda are minerals. Given time, gravity, and a little humidity, they naturally settle or clump especially in liquid recipes. That doesn’t weaken the detergent or change how well it cleans.
What to do:
- Give the jug a gentle shake or roll before measuring
- If crystals form, scoop or pour them right into the washer with the clothes
- No need to reheat, remix, or remake the batch
This is normal behavior for a low-chemical, homemade detergent. Think of it like natural peanut butter. It separates because it’s real, not because it’s broken.
Using Your Homemade Detergent: Tips & Tricks
Take a moment to admire your beautiful homemade detergent. It’s ready for action! Grab your gallon and a 1/4-cup measure, and let’s head to the laundry room.
Start with 1/4 cup per load for older top-loading machines. If you have a front-loading HE washer, which uses much less water, start with just 1 tablespoon. The right amount depends on your washer and the hardness of your water, so a little experimentation may be needed to find what works best for your home.
Pour the detergent as you normally would. If your washer has a dispenser, that’s the perfect spot. For direct-to-drum washers, simply add it before loading your clothes.
Pro tip: Less is more in modern machines. Using too much detergent can leave clothes stiff or dingy, especially in HE washers. Shake or roll your container before each use, and don’t worry if crystals form. They’ll dissolve in the wash.
With just a small measure, your laundry will come out clean, fresh, and free of unnecessary chemicals. Plus, you’ll be saving money every load.
HE Machines and Custom Dosage
This liquid laundry detergent is fully compatible with HE (high-efficiency) washers. Because it’s diluted in the wash, it produces minimal suds… just what your modern machine needs.
High-efficiency washers use very little water, so a little goes a long way. Start with 1 tablespoon per load, adjusting slightly based on your machine and water type. Older top-load machines can handle 1/4 cup per load.
Customize for Water Hardness
Water hardness affects how well your detergent works, but this recipe is flexible enough to adapt.
- Soft water: Reduce the amount by 10–20% to avoid residue.
- Hard water: Add a little extra detergent or 1–2 tablespoons of washing soda for extra cleaning power.
Pro Tip: Test a few loads and adjust as needed. The beauty of this formula is its flexibility. Understand the role of each ingredient, and you can tweak it to fit your water type and household perfectly.
Clean Clothes, Clear Conscience, Big Savings
Making your own liquid laundry detergent isn’t just a smart way to save money. It’s a small but meaningful way to live a little greener. One gallon lasts for months, cutting down on packaging waste, while avoiding unnecessary fragrances or dyes keeps your laundry happier.
A few readers understandably worry about skin irritation, fabric wear, or whether homemade detergent is “too harsh.” Here’s the straight talk.
This recipe is fragrance-free, which is often the biggest trigger for sensitive skin. In most cases, problems come from using too much detergent, not from the ingredients themselves. Modern washers, especially HE machines, use very little water, so proper dosing and good rinsing matter more than anything else.
If clothes feel stiff, dingy, or irritating, that’s your cue to use less, not more. When used correctly, this detergent cleans well without breaking down fabrics or irritating skin. Many readers have used it for years with great results and fewer rashes, fading, and buildup than they had with commercial brands.
Plus, at just a few cents per load, the savings really add up. Over a year, that’s hundreds of dollars staying in your wallet instead of walking out the store door. Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s touching your clothes.
Can I use this liquid laundry detergent in high-efficiency (HE) washers?
Yes! This homemade liquid laundry detergent is fully compatible with HE washers. Because it’s diluted in the wash, it produces minimal suds, perfect for machines that use very little water. Start with 1 tablespoon per load and adjust slightly if needed.
How much detergent should I use per load?
For HE front-loading washers, start with 1 tablespoon per load. Older top-loading washers can handle 1/4 cup per load. Adjust based on your machine, water hardness, and how soiled your clothes are. Less is usually better for modern machines.
Can I use any dish soap for this recipe?
Stick with Blue Dawn in its blue versions: Original, Ultra, Platinum, or PowerSuds. Other brands or colors won’t have the same grease-fighting formula, which is what makes this detergent effective even when highly diluted.
What’s the difference between washing soda and baking soda?
Washing soda (soda ash) is much stronger than baking soda and is not edible. It brightens whites, softens water, and tackles grease, making it essential for effective laundry detergent. Baking soda won’t do the same cleaning work in this recipe.
What if crystals form in my detergent?
It’s normal for borax and washing soda to form harmless crystals over time. Simply shake or roll the container before each use. If it bothers you, make smaller batches to use up faster.
Do I need to adjust the detergent for hard or soft water?
Yes! Soft water: reduce the detergent by 10–20% to avoid residue. Hard water: add a little extra detergent or 1–2 tablespoons of washing soda for more cleaning power. Test a few loads and adjust to your water conditions.
How long does a gallon of homemade liquid laundry detergent last?
One gallon makes about 34 loads, but depending on your washer and dosage, it can last for several weeks or even months. It’s cost-effective and reduces packaging waste compared to store-bought detergent.
Is homemade liquid laundry detergent eco-friendly?
Absolutely. Using this detergent reduces packaging waste, avoids unnecessary fragrances or dyes, and uses simple, biodegradable ingredients. It’s an easy way to save money and help the environment at the same time.
Liquid Laundry Detergent
Materials
- 3/4 cup super washing soda Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda or generic soda ash
- 3/4 cup borax Twenty-Mule Team Borax or store brand
- 3/4 cup Blue Dawn dishwashing liquid Original, Ultra, or Ultra Advanced Power
- 2-3 cups cool tap water plus more to fill container
Instructions
How to Make the Detergent
- Measure and pour washing soda and borax into the empty one-gallon container.
- Pour in 2–3 cups cool tap water. Don’t worry about a few bubbles. They’re normal.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the powders start dissolving. Shake until the mixture looks milky and well combined.
- Add tap water to within about 1 inch of the top, leaving space for the Blue Dawn.
- Measure 3/4 cup Blue Dawn and pour in slowly to avoid excessive suds.
- Fill the measuring cup with a little more water and pour it into the container to capture any remaining soap. If there’s space left, top off until about 1/2-inch from the top.
- Secure the lid. Instead of shaking, roll the container on its side a few times to fully incorporate the soap without creating a sudsy mess.
- Your liquid detergent is ready! Shake or roll the container before each use, especially if crystals form at the bottom.
How to Use the Detergent
- Pour the detergent exactly the way you normally add detergent to your washer, whether that’s in a dispenser, directly in the drum, or in a small measuring cup.HE front-loading washers: Start with 1 tablespoon per load. These washers use very little water, so a little detergent goes a long way.Older top-loading washers: Use 1/4 cup per load, which works well for machines that fill with more water.Adjust as needed: Depending on your washer size, water hardness, and how dirty the clothes are, you may need to tweak the amount slightly. When in doubt, start with less. You can always add more next time.
Notes
Question: What’s your go-to laundry hack? Store-bought convenience or DIY detergent magic? Join the conversation in the comments below.
EverydayCheapskate™ is reader-supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
More from Everyday Cheapskate
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260705-Best-Coolers-for-Camping-Road-Trips-and-Beach-Days.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-07-05 13:26:172026-07-05 13:26:17Best Coolers for Camping, Road Trips, and Beach Days
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260705-how-to-keep-a-cooler-cold.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-07-05 13:19:502026-07-05 13:19:50How to Pack a Cooler That Stays Cold for 48 Hours
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260703-home-decor.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-07-03 20:46:552026-07-03 20:46:5510 Everyday Items You Never Think to Wash (But Should)
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260630-a-lit-sparkler-with-an-american-flag-in-the-background-4th-of-july-hacks-tips-and-recipes.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-06-30 21:44:502026-06-30 21:44:5034 Fourth of July Recipes and DIY Hacks for a Stress-Free Holiday
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260629-wooden-die-spell-july-with-patriotic-decor-in-background.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-06-29 21:07:092026-06-29 21:10:297 Best Things to Buy in July for Huge Summer Savings
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260628-Grilled-Peaches-with-Balsamic-and-Blue-Cheese-1.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-06-29 09:38:342026-06-29 09:38:34Summer Grilled Peaches with Balsamic and Blue Cheese
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260628-close-up-photo-a-woman-wearing-a-swimsuit-with-a-mild-sunburn.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-06-28 21:40:042026-06-28 21:40:04DIY After-Sun Spray That Cools and Soothes Skin
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260626-homemade-stain-paste-sitting-on-wooden-countertop-in-laundry-room-with-washer-and-dryer.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-06-26 17:41:192026-06-26 17:41:19Homemade Laundry Stain Paste That Works for Pennies
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/20260625-a-rustic-wooden-christmas-tree-in-the-sand-on-the-beach.png
800
1200
Mary Hunt
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/wp-content/uploads/EC-Logo-by-Mary-Hunt-Tagline-Trimmed.png
Mary Hunt2026-06-26 11:34:132026-06-26 11:36:44Christmas in June? Try This Amazon Prime Day Gift GuidePlease keep your comments positive, encouraging, helpful, brief,
and on-topic in keeping with EC Commenting Guidelines
Last update on 2026-07-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hi Mary
Quick and maybe dumb questions. I’ve switched from regular blue Dawn to Dawn Platinum Plus PowerSuds. Can I use that (it’s stil blue…LOL)? Or should I use regular Dawn. Also, what happens if you replace the tap water with distilled? Where I live we have extremely hard water..
I would stick to the regular Blue Dawn. The Platinum contains additional technology and is more concentrated. Blue Dawn is the gold standard for using in my custom mixes. As for distilled vs tap, if you have hard water, distilled will usually be a better solution. However, since you are using the tap to wash the laundry, you wouldn’t notice any difference.
Does this recipe call to wash in cold, warm ,or hot water?
Use it as you would any other detergent. Generally speaking hotter water will give better results but for a typical load of laundry, cold water will work great.
i’ve been using this home made detergent for at least ten years, maybe longer. two questions…some have suggested adding essential oil to the detergent. won’t that leave stains on my wash? and if i’m doing a small to medium size load with large load water [my washer does not have a medium setting] do i adjust the amount of detergent accordingly? i have arthritis in my hands and have trouble with gallons so i use a half gallon jug and 3/8 measurments instead. works fine.
The tiny amount of essential oils you might add (hjust a couple of drops) shouldn’t cause any adverse issues but always do a test first to confirm. If you are having good results with less detergent for less clothing, then stick with it!
I’ve been using your original recipe for years. I tried this recipe and my front-loading washer started smelling after a couple of batches. I went back to the original recipe and my washer lost the bad odor after about 3 loads. This recipe is easier, but I don’t think it compares with the Fels Naptha recipe.
Thank you for your column. MaryB San Dimas CA
We switched to this and love it. Laundry is clean and fresh and doesn’ t irritate my sensitive skin. My husband was skeptical at first but he’s been convinced!
WOULD IT BE ALRIGHT TO USE A CLEAN DISTILLED VINEGAR 1 GALLON PLASTIC CONTAINER TO MAKE MIX??
THANKS,
Yes, that should be fine. This recipe doesn’t use any bleach but just as a reminder, when reusing vinegar containers make sure to never use bleach. Vinegar mixed with bleach creates a toxic chlorine gas.
Can I replace dawn with Castile liquid? I am only using clean ingredients from EWG site. Love your column. Been reading it for over 20 years
Castile can be used a replacement but you’ll likely need to add more. Dawn packs a punch which is why I prefer it.
I have used this for YEARS and never been disappointed. It takes about 10 minutes to make, well worth the time!
Question: I have decided to add a 1/2 cup Borax with 1 tablespoon Mary’s liquid detergent to each load of wash. I place the liquid detergent in the dispenser. I mix the 1/2 cup Borax in warm water and then add the mixture when my top loader is the wash cycle. Is this the only way to add the Borax to my wash. I live in a very hard water area. Thanks.
I can make it even easier. Add the dry borax into the tub with the clothes!
Hi!
I enjoy your articles so much!
Question regarding DIY liquid laundry detergent!! Can I use Blue Dawn Platinum instead of the
original product?
Yes!
I made this for the first time. I am halfway through the bottle. It seems like there is very little Dawn left. I mix it thoroughly before measuring for each load. Has anyone else had this problem?
i’ve had this as i make a double batch. hasn’t hurt my laundry to add some more Dawn. i use regular Dawn. when that happened, i added another 1/4C. worked fine. this is, hands down, the best laundry detergent out there.
I read a response that you wrote to a reader about how much laundry detergent to use. In the response you wrote she should use one tablespoon of detergent. Is that commercial detergent. I’m asking that because in your recipe you say to use 1/4 cup of the homemade detergent; 1/4 cup is 4 tablespoons.
John B.
I can understand why you’re confused, John! Here’s the deal: When it comes to how much laundry detergent to use, there are myriad variables, i.e. washer capacity (standard size, extra large, etc.) specific cycle selected (small load, large load) and the condition or “hardness” of water where you live. Then there’s the detergent you’re using. So many commercial laundry detergent’s these days are highly concentrated. Then there are detergent pods and even the new detergent sheets. As for our homemade detergent that contains Blue Dawn, are you using original Blue Dawn or is it Ultra 4x or Ultra Platinum 5x (indicating how concentrated it is!). My advice to the reader for 1 tablespoon (as I recall) was a place to start, then increase or decrease as needed. If using our homemade version, yes 1/4 cup is recommended for the original recipe. And even then it’s difficult to take into account the size washer. Whew! That’s a long explanation and still I have not answered your question, so here it is. Experiment, erring on the side of using too little rather than too much. As you may know I highly recommend borax as an additive to every load regardless the type/brand of detergent you’re using. Let me share my situation. I just got a new large capacity Electrolux Washer/Dryer set. I assumed I would need to increase the amount of detergent due to larger loads, but surprisingly, no. I’ve settled on this routine: 1/3 cup borax plus 1 tablespoon EC Homemade Liquid Detergent made with Blue Dawn Ultra 4X. Then I add 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar to the last rinse (pouring it into the washer’s liquid softener reservoir, which gets released into that last rinse cycle). Hope that helps!
I’m having a hard time getting the borax and washing soda to dissolve. I’ve been shaking for 1/2 hour and I still have undissolved crystals. I tried adding more water but still not dissolving. Any ideas?
Don’t worry. Leave them as is and proceed. If there are crystals left at the end just throw the into the machine/load.
Help! I Get Clumps of Crystals in My Homemade Laundry Detergent
Can’t you just dissolve the powder in hot water first?
You have a fantastic eye for information! You always recognize just how to make me feel better.
Howdy! I made this a few days ago and have done a few loads of laundry (1/4 cup liquid). I assume it works as good as Tide. I hated seeing it separate; Dawn was on top and the rest was cloudy water with crystals covering the bottom of the one gallon jug. Tonight I will take the idea of not adding water. Let it dry overnight and break it up using ONE TABLESPOON per load. I think that will be way easier. I might end up keeping it in a Tupperware depending on the moisture content.
Terrific to obtain the most out of your cash. Phenomenal!
Hi, Mary & Crew,
I tweaked the formula a bit because I wanted some Oxy in each of the loads, so I always had a strong enzyme cleaner in the mix. But does this throw things off way too much? Here’s my current recipe (I have soft water, so use a scant tablespoon):
2 bar 4-oz Castille soap (decided I didn’t like the smell of Fels Naptha; may try Dr. Bronners–would
like a little more fragrance, I think)
2 C Borax
2 C Laundry Soda
2 C Oxyclean
Whaddayathink, Mary?
Thanks,
Julie
Enjoy your recipe. If that works for you, great!
My washer has an automatic laundry detergent dispenser for liquid detergent. Is it safe to pour this into the dispenser?
Yes, use as you would any commercial detergent.
I like this detergent but the dawn always goes back to the top in the jug no matter how much I mix it. I have another question…. previously you suggested using Borax in every wash….do you still do that even when using the detergent made with the Borax?
Shake or mix gently before use. Yes, I use additional borax in every load.
I’ve been making this detergent for years. If your family is picky about laundry detergent, get a jug of Tide, use it up, then use the jug to make liquid laundry detergent. I heat the powders with some water on the stove until dissolved and then whisk in 1 tsp xanthan gum. After it cools, proceed with the recipe. You can add a few drops of essential oil. They will not notice the difference. It’s laughable, I do that sneaky stuff with lots of foods too, such as barbeque sauce and ketchup.
if the family doesn’t like the way i do the laundry, they’re free to do it themselves – and pay accordingly. this recipe is as good as Tide – and way cheaper.
Hi Mary
Quick question: I’ve been using your homemade laundry detergent recipe for quite some time and I misplaced it. When I went to look it up on your blog I found the 3/4 cup measurements to make 1 gallon of detergent. Is this an updated recipe? I’m fairly certain the last one I had was 3/4 cup measurements for 3 gallons of detergent or 3 TBSP of ingredients for 1 gallon. I’d just like to know if I’ve been using the wrong one all along or if this is something updated or maybe I’m just crazy. 😉
Thanks for clarifying.
Love this recipe. Do you have one for a liquid laundry detergent that is scent-free & good for sensitive skin? Thank you!
This recipe you’re looking at is fragrance free and very kind to sensitive skin.
Can you just make a liquid version of the powdered version by mixing the ingredients with say 64-120 oz of water?
I have not tried that. But if you do, let us know how it works. Or consider this: How to Make the Best Homemade Liquid Laundry Detergent instead.
I made my 1st gallon of this on Monday and then did my laundry (which I like in an apt with laundry room with 3 washers and dryers)
I love this recipe for the liquid soap mix. And vinegar in the rinse cycle. (which I have timed it. lol)
My clothes came out so clean! I will always make mine for now on. Thank you Mary!
Does it have to be “Ultra Advanced Power Blue Dawn”?
All I find on Amazon it Platinum blue dawn, is that the same?
You can use any Blue Dawn … however Platinum, Ultra signal that it is concentrated and has enzymes, as opposed to original Blue Dawn, which is now pretty hard to find. Just make sure it’s blue and it is DAWN!
Have been using my gallon of the liquid detergent for over a year. The clothes come out clean. Have a front loader HE machine. It doesn’t make suds. Usually use too much but I put white vinegar in the bleach dispenser and that seems to help the clothes dry soft. Also have wool dryer balls in the dryer.
Have also made and used the dry version. It works just as well and lasts a long time.
I have made Mary’s recipe 3X now and it gets easier each time. But, there is always some powder residue at the bottom of my jug. I still use it, shaking a bit before each load. I may be able to get one more recipe out of the Borax and Washing Soda, which would be four gallons of the stuff. I wish I could figure out how much I am saving using this recipe.
Amy K. Would you mind explaining a little more on your way? Do you mean you pour in liquid blue Dawn and I got lost on putting a scoop on plastic lid. Sorry. . I’d really like to know though if you’re time. Jan
This is a very important AND useful information FOR all FAMILIES… Can I share without getting penalized???
It’s easy to use the social share buttons on the left.
I’ve used this for over 15 years now. It’s changed in how it’s made but still works GREAT. LOVE IT!!
I have the same issue as Tammy and would like some suggestions, other than Amy’s remake of the recipe. Mary, do you have any suggestions?
I’ve been making my own washing detergent for several years now, Mary’s recipe, and I won’t go back! we have fewer skin rashes and itching, clothes don’t fade as fast. I only miss the fragrance of my favorite old detergent – Gain. not enough to switch back, though!
Mary, my husband can only tolerate Arm and Hammer sensative skin because his skin is very sensitive to soap. Is there a sensitive skin version of this recipe?
I think you’ll find this homemade detergent on par with the commercial products that are free and natural or for sensitive skin.
I never thought I’d make own laundry detergent myself! I loved Mary’s recipe but I wanted to make something that doesn’t involve water.. So Amy’s recipe came evolved from Mary. One box of Borax, one box of super washing soda, and one equivalent size of Blue Dawn. Mix the powders well in a big bucket. 3-5 gallon recommended. Mix in Dawn. The mixture will solidify so scoop one big wooden spoonfuls on a piece of large plastic cover that will not absorbed. The whole thing will literally look like a cookie doughs ready to be baked. These “cookie doughs” should dry overnight. Crumble all in the container that was mixed the previous day. Voila! One large load only requires about a small mountain scoop of table spoon. I share with my friends and everyone of them cannot believe how clean the clothes get with such a small amount. Mary, I am now a believer and will make my own laundry detergents not only because it is price effective but to save the earth by not buying the commercial plastic packaging. Thank you for everyday wisdom, and wish you and your family a very happy, healthy, and safe 2021!
How do you tell if using too much or too little? I have a newer Maytag HE top loader.
I’m wondering if the liquid recipe is safe to use with bleach? The cautions on the bottle of blue dawn say not to add bleach.
David
Of course I would caution you to obey. However, I choose for myself to use bleach with both versions, and without problem. For many years.
Soda ash, aka washing soda, is used to lower the ph in swimming pools. You can confirm that here.
Thanks for this easier recipe! I’ve been making my own for a year now & can’t wait to try this version.
Soft water means less detergent required to get the job done. Lucky you!
Experiment by cutting back until you’re satisfied with the outcome.
I believe I would, provided that non-HE machine uses more water. You really have little to lose by experimenting! If you overdo it, you can simply put that load through another rinse, or full cycle with no detergent added.
I wouldn’t say that.
These “experiments” are causing my fabrics to shred. Kitchen towels, bath towels, blue jeans. This washing soda is proving to be incredibly tough on cotton.
Perhaps you are using way too much, and it is not getting completely rinsed out.
Hi my name is Tanya and I live in Australia Queensland. I love the sound of your washing liquid and would love to make it but I don’t know what to replace the dawn as I don’t think we get that in Australia. Please send. Email back to me as also I wouldn’t know how to get your answer back to my question on this site as I have 8 children and would love to cut down my costs in the household. hotsmarketing@outlook.com
“Fairy” is the non-States version of “Dawn.”
A recipe using cruelty-free ingredients would be much appreciated.
Wondering why Upsamom thinks these ingredients aren’t “cruelty free”? Soda and borax are simply dug from the earth, nothing could be more natural than that. Dawn has a grease emulsifier, and works great to wash a dirty pet, so that can’t be considered “cruel.”
I believe it’s animal testing that she is referring to. The tests conducted on animals are brutal and sickening.
Here’s a handy idea: Take an empty Tide 2 gallon lay-on-its-side pushbutton dispenser, fill it half full (so its easy to lift if mixing needs to be done) of the laundry mixture Mary Hunt recommends, and voila, no more trying to dispense detergent into a 1/4 cup measure from a big heavy bottle.
Good one, Linda!
When I make this detergent, I get small “pebbles” of the dry ingredients, I guess, after a time and they don’t mix again when shaking. Anyone else encounter this? I am certain that they are all incorporated in the first mixing process.
I, too had same issues which led me to this recipe. Hope it helps!
One box of Borax, one box of super washing soda, and one equivalent size of Blue Dawn. Mix the powders well in a big bucket. 3-5 gallon recommended. Mix in Dawn. The mixture will solidify so scoop one big wooden spoonfuls on a piece of large plastic cover that will not absorbed. The whole thing will literally look like a cookie doughs ready to be baked. These “cookie doughs” should dry overnight. Crumble all in the container that was mixed the previous day. Voila! One large load only requires about a small mountain scoop of table spoon. I share with my friends and everyone of them cannot believe how clean the clothes get with such a small amount.
Would you be willing to tell me how much dawn you add to the borax and washing soda ? A standard size bottle of dawn or 3/4
Cup?
If you use distilled water instead of tap, you can prevent unappealing sediment from precipitating out of the mix.
Why does it have to be blue dawn soap? What’s wrong with, say, the green?
Blue Dawn has far more surfactants than the other versions, which make it a much better degreaser and stain remover.
Made my 1st gallon. Looking forward to my 1st load. I’ll let’cha Y’all know the outcome.