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FeedFrugal Living: Making Your Own Laundry Detergent Part 2
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A few weeks ago, I posted about making your own laundry detergent. This frugal method brought in a lot of responses including various recipes. Over the weekend, my son and I actually made and used this detergent so I wanted to share all the details with you.
On average, Tide costs about .30 per load but this Homemade Laundry Detergent runs about .01 per load-can’t beat that!
Here’s the different recipes:
1. Liquid Homemade Laundry Detergent (this is the method I used)
2. Adjusting the recipe for HE machines (Scroll down through these FAQs, I have no experience with this, use it at your own risk.) Thanks, Heather.
3. Powder Version of Homemade Laundry Soap (Just add this to the water when you wash your clothes.)
I found all of the ingredients at Reasor’s but I’m sure you can find them at Walmart, Target, etc.
Basic Ingredients: Borax, Arm & Hammer Washing Soda, Ivory or Fels Naptha Soap
I grated the Ivory Soap and melted it with 6 cups of boiling water.
My son added Borax & the Arm & Hammer to the boiling water & we poured that mixture into a bucket with another gallon of water.
My other son was not thrilled that big brother got to do all the work. I had to give him a bucket too.
After letting the mixture 'set' for 24 hours, it became a gel-like substance ready for use.
While the final texture was a bit icky to me, it worked just fine on our clothes. We do not use scents or dyes in our house so this was perfect for our sensitive skin! Overall, I was impressed. Have you tried it yet? What did you think?
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please post amounts used to make laundry soap
Click on the links above (the words bolded in pink). The ingredients are listed. Thanks.
I am having trouble finding the Super Washing Soda (other than online). Help!
I started making this before I started couponing, when laundry detergent was too pricey. Now, I alternate between using this and using whatever detergent I get a deal on. :) The powdered version is easier to use, but it doesn't last as long.
I found it at our local Reasor's grocery store, I've found that it's easier to find at actual grocery stores like Kroger or whatever is near you.
We've been using this a few weeks now and love it! I put vinegar in a Downy fabric softener ball to make sure our clothes are rinsed well and static-free. You can search where to find Washing Soda here: http://www.armandhammer.com/Products/WhereToBuy.aspx I've also been using a homemade dishwasher detergent with a vinegar rinse that works great, too!
Would love to get the homemade dishwasher soap breakdown. :)
Dishwashing detergent is equal parts of Washing Soda and Borax (I mixed 1 cup to 1 cup ratio) and use 2 tablespoons per load. I put vinegar in where the Jet Dry usually goes and this makes them come out spot-free. I have started pre-rinsing my dishes, which I'd rather not do, but it is SO WORTH the savings!
I've been reading about a home made laundry detergent. Would someone please pass along how to make & use it? Also, how much vinegar do you use in Downy ball for rinse cycle?
If you go here http://www.20muleteamlaundry.com/ at the bottom of the page you can print a coupon for .35 off any one 20 Mule Team Borax product.