Many commercial detergents and stain removers contain chemicals that can harm both your clothes and the planet. But there's a solution that's both eco-friendly and budget-friendly: making your laundry products at home.
In this guide, we'll show you how to create your eco-friendly laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric softeners using natural and readily available ingredients. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint, but you'll also have full control over what goes into your laundry.
So, let's get started on your journey to a greener, cleaner laundry routine.
Homemade Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 Bar of Castile Soap: This biodegradable soap comes in various scents and is the base of your detergent.
Castile soap is made with 100% plant-based oils, while regular soap typically uses animal fats. If you don't like the idea of using soap that contains animal products, Castile soap is the way to go. Plus, vegetable oil-based soap has a longer shelf-life than soap made with animal-based oils
- 1 Cup of Washing Soda: A mineral-based cleaner that boosts the detergent's cleaning power.
Washing soda is sodium carbonate. Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. These are two different compounds. Unlike washing soda, baking soda is mild enough that you can eat it, but you can't eat washing soda.
- 1 Cup of Baking Soda: Helps to soften hard water and remove odours.
- 20 Drops of Essential Oil: For a pleasant scent (choose your favourite).
- A Large Container: To store your detergent.
Instructions
- Grate the Soap: Begin by grating the entire bar of Castile soap into fine flakes. A cheese grater works well for this task.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated soap, washing soda, and baking soda. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly.
- Add Essential Oil: Add your chosen essential oil to the mixture and blend it in. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree not only add fragrance but also offer antibacterial properties.
- Transfer to Container: Carefully transfer your homemade laundry detergent into an airtight container. Ensure it's stored in a cool, dry place.
How to Use
For a standard-sized load of laundry, use approximately 2-3 tablespoons of your homemade detergent. You can adjust the amount based on your machine and the level of soiling in your clothes.
Homemade Laundry Stain Remover
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 Part Hydrogen Peroxide: A natural bleaching agent.
- 1 Part Dishwashing Liquid: Choose one that's free of dyes and fragrances.
- A Dark Spray Bottle: Light can degrade hydrogen peroxide, so opt for an opaque bottle.
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In your spray bottle, combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and dishwashing liquid. Give it a gentle shake to mix, but be careful not to create too many suds.
- Apply to Stain: Spray the mixture directly onto the stain, ensuring it's saturated. For tough stains, you can gently rub the fabric together to work in the solution.
- Wait and Rinse: Allow the stain remover to sit for at least 5-10 minutes, but avoid letting it dry on the fabric. Then, rinse the stained area with cold water.
- Wash as Usual: Launder the garment as you typically would, following the care instructions on the label.
Note: Always test this stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure it doesn't cause any damage or discolouration.
Homemade Fabric Softener
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 Cups of White Vinegar: Acts as a natural fabric softener.
- 20-30 Drops of Essential Oil: For a pleasant fragrance (again, choose your favourite).
- A Large Container: To store your fabric softener.
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large container, combine the white vinegar and essential oil. Stir well to disperse the essential oil throughout the vinegar.
- Store and Use: Store your homemade fabric softener in a cool, dark place. When it's time to use it, simply add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of your DIY softener to your washing machine's fabric softener dispenser. If your machine doesn't have a dispenser, wait until the rinse cycle and add it directly to the water.
Conclusion
By making your eco-friendly laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric softeners at home, you're taking a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable lifestyle.
Not only will you reduce your environmental footprint by avoiding harmful chemicals, but you'll also have complete control over the ingredients that touch your clothes and skin.
