20 Diy Laundry Detergent Ideas

If you’ve ever stared at the laundry aisle wondering why detergent costs so much, or worried about the harsh chemicals in commercial products, DIY laundry detergent is a game-changer.

Not only can you save money, but you also get control over the ingredients, fragrances, and even the eco-friendliness of what goes into your clothes.

Think of this as us sitting in the laundry room chatting, swapping ideas on how to make your laundry routine simpler, safer, and even a bit fun. Here are 20 DIY laundry detergent ideas that are practical, budget-friendly, and surprisingly easy to make at home.

1. Classic Borax and Washing Soda Mix

This simple recipe combines equal parts borax and washing soda. It’s effective for everyday loads and easy to store. Just mix them in a large jar, and you can scoop out what you need per load. It’s perfect if you want something straightforward without extra ingredients.

2. Grated Soap Bar Detergent

One of the most popular DIY options is using a plain, natural soap bar, like Castile or Fels-Naptha. Grate the soap and combine it with washing soda and borax. The soap dissolves in water and provides gentle cleaning power. It’s simple, classic, and smells fresh.

3. Liquid Laundry Detergent

For those who prefer liquid over powder, you can make a homemade version by melting grated soap in water, adding washing soda, and a little borax. This creates a smooth liquid detergent that works in both standard and high-efficiency machines.

4. Baking Soda Boost

Baking soda is a gentle yet effective cleaner that helps remove odors. You can combine it with grated soap or just add a tablespoon to your regular detergent for extra freshness. It’s particularly helpful for gym clothes or items that tend to hold onto odors.

5. Essential Oil Infusion

Adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus can make your DIY detergent smell amazing. They also add antibacterial properties. Just mix them into your powder or liquid detergent for a fragrant, natural boost.

6. Oxygen-Based Stain Remover

For tough stains, oxygen bleach is a safe, non-chlorine option. You can mix powdered oxygen bleach into your DIY detergent or use it as a pre-soak. It brightens whites and colors without the harshness of chlorine bleach.

7. Vinegar Rinse Add-On

White vinegar isn’t a detergent itself, but it’s perfect as a rinse aid. Adding a half-cup to your rinse cycle softens clothes, neutralizes odors, and helps remove detergent residue. It’s cheap, safe, and multi-functional.

8. Castile Soap Liquid

Castile soap is plant-based, biodegradable, and gentle on skin. You can make a liquid detergent using castile soap, water, and washing soda. It works well for standard and HE machines and is ideal if you prefer vegan-friendly options.

9. Coconut Oil Soap Detergent

Coconut oil soap bars can be grated and combined with washing soda to make a gentle yet effective detergent. Coconut oil soap is naturally antibacterial, making it excellent for washing baby clothes or sensitive skin items.

10. Powdered Detergent Tablets

If you like the convenience of single-use packs, you can make your own detergent tablets. Combine grated soap, washing soda, and a little water to form small molds, then let them dry. They’re easy to store and convenient for quick loads.

11. Lemon Juice Brightener

Lemon juice is a natural whitening agent. Adding a small amount to your detergent or soak solution can brighten whites and help tackle stains. It’s a simple ingredient that packs a surprisingly effective punch.

12. Liquid Soap and Borax Combo

Combining liquid soap, borax, and washing soda creates a powerful all-purpose detergent. The liquid soap dissolves quickly, while borax adds cleaning and deodorizing power. This mix is great for heavily soiled loads.

13. Laundry Powder With Oats

Adding finely ground oats to your DIY detergent can help soften fabrics naturally. It’s gentle on the skin and gives a creamy texture to homemade powders. This is particularly nice for baby laundry or sensitive skin.

14. Soap Nuts

Soap nuts are a natural, plant-based detergent. You can place a few in a small muslin bag and toss them in the wash. They’re reusable for multiple loads and environmentally friendly, perfect if you’re aiming for a zero-waste routine.

15. DIY Enzyme Cleaner

Enzymes break down stubborn stains like protein or grease. You can create an enzyme-based pre-soak using fruit peels, sugar, and water. It’s a longer process, but it’s extremely effective for tough laundry challenges.

16. Oxi-Clean Inspired Powder

You can make your own oxygen-based cleaner by combining washing soda, hydrogen peroxide, and borax. It works beautifully on whites and light colors. This blend mimics commercial products but with full control over the ingredients.

17. Lavender and Baking Soda Powder

Mixing lavender essential oil with baking soda creates a fragrant powder that deodorizes and gently cleans. Sprinkle it directly on smelly items before washing or mix it into your standard DIY powder.

18. HE-Compatible Liquid Detergent

For high-efficiency washers, you can make a low-sudsing liquid detergent by mixing grated soap, water, and washing soda. Avoid overusing oils or glycerin to keep the suds low. This version keeps HE machines happy while still cleaning effectively.

19. DIY Laundry Pods

If you like the convenience of pods but want control over ingredients, you can make your own. Combine grated soap, baking soda, washing soda, and a little water, mold them in small silicone trays, and let dry. They’re easy to toss in for single loads.

20. Multi-Purpose Laundry Powder

For an all-around solution, combine grated soap, washing soda, borax, and a sprinkle of baking soda. This mix tackles dirt, odors, and stains while keeping your laundry routine simple. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to store in a large jar.

Conclusion

Making your own laundry detergent is more than just a cost-saving hack—it’s a way to take control over what touches your clothes and your skin. From powders and liquids to pods and enzyme cleaners, there’s a DIY option for every preference, machine type, and lifestyle. Once you experiment with a few of these ideas, you’ll likely find a favorite that’s effective, eco-friendly, and personalized to your household’s needs. Not only does it make laundry day more satisfying, but it also adds a touch of creativity and self-sufficiency to a routine task most of us take for granted.