Low-Tox Powdered Laundry Detergent

We’ve been making our own laundry detergent and it’s the easiest thing to do… I’m wondering why we haven’t incorporated recipes like these into our school curriculum.

Not only is it simple, low tox and effective, but creative too. My favourite part of this process is having the luxury of changing up the essential oils and scents to our liking with each wash.

Here’s our quick low-tox laundry detergent that lasts a minimum of 90 loads of regular washing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sodium carbonate (we use Lecker’s Washing Soda, $5/kg at Woolworths)
• 4 cups bicarbonate soda
• 2 cups sodium borate
• 200g grated castile soap
• 20-40mL essential oil of choice (optional)

Method

In a large mixing bowl or bucket, add the sodium carbonate, bicarbonate soda, and sodium borate. Stir well to evenly combine all powders.

Add the grated castile soap to the dry mixture. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix thoroughly so the soap is evenly distributed throughout the powder.

Optional: If adding essential oils in bulk, drip 40 to 60 drops evenly over the mixture. Stir slowly and thoroughly, breaking up any clumps so the scent disperses evenly. OR if you prefer to customise your scents, skip adding essential oils to the bulk mixture. Instead, add 2 to 4 drops of essential oil directly into the drum or detergent drawer with each load of laundry. I like to use lavender, geranium, eucalyptus or lemon.

Transfer the detergent to an airtight glass jar or metal container. Label clearly and store in a dry place, out of reach of children and pets.

A note on safety: washing soda and borax are household cleaning agents — they can irritate skin, eyes and airways and are harmful if swallowed. Wear gloves when mixing, avoid breathing in the powder, and check each product’s label and safety information before use.

To use

• Regular load: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons
• Heavily soiled loads: 1 - 3 tablespoons