Are you looking for a safer, simpler, and more natural way to do your laundry? If you’re trying to ditch harsh chemicals, reduce plastic waste, or just save some money—making your own laundry detergent is a great place to start!
In this post, I’ll share a
borax-free homemade laundry detergent
recipe that’s gentle on sensitive skin, effective on dirt and stains, and easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Why Make Your Own Natural Laundry Detergent?
- Safe for sensitive skin – Free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and toxins.
- Eco-friendly laundry solution – No harmful chemicals
- Affordable – This DIY laundry detergent recipe costs pennies per load.
- Zero-waste laundry option – Cut down on plastic jugs and packaging.
Why Go Borax-Free?
While borax is a common ingredient in many DIY cleaning recipes, it’s not for everyone. Some people experience skin irritation from it, and others prefer to avoid it due to environmental or health concerns.
This recipe skips the borax entirely—but don’t worry, it still packs a cleaning punch!
What Epsom Salt Does in Homemade Laundry Detergent
Epsom salt
(magnesium sulfate) isn’t just for baths—it can be a fantastic laundry booster too! Here’s how it helps in your detergent:
Natural Fabric Softener
Epsom salt helps soften fabrics naturally, especially in areas with hard water. It can make clothes feel less stiff after washing—no need for commercial softeners.
Helps Balance Water Hardness
Magnesium sulfate can help balance minerals in the water, improving the overall effectiveness of your detergent. This allows the washing soda and soap to do their job more efficiently.
Freshens Laundry
It helps reduce odors and can leave your laundry smelling fresher. You can boost this effect with essential oils.
Gentle on Skin
Unlike synthetic softeners, Epsom salt is gentle and suitable for people with skin sensitivities or allergies.
Ingredients for Homemade Laundry Detergent
- 1 bar of Castile soap or natural laundry soap (I prefer Lavender scented, biodegradable, plant-based)
- 1.5 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate – boosts cleaning power)
- 1.5 cup baking soda (sodium bicarbonate – natural deodorizer & water softener)
- .5 cup epsom salt
- Optional: 20-25 drops of essential oils (lavender, lemon, tea tree, or eucalyptus for fresh scent + antibacterial benefits)
Here are links to DIY Toxic-Free Laundry Detergent
Click the links below to find where I source my DIY Laundry Detergent
Castile Soap (Options for Fragrance Free or Lavender)
Washing Soda
Baking Soda
Epsom Salt
Essential Oils:
I use Young Living Lavender Oil to enhance the small of the Lavender Castile Soap
DIY Toxic-Free Laundry Detergent Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grate the soap – Use a cheese grater or food processor until fine. If using a food processor, I add 1/2 cup washing soda to the food processor with the soap. Make sure to cut up the soap into 1 inch x 1 inch pieces.
- Combine dry ingredients – Mix grated soap, remainder of washing soda, epsom salt and baking soda in a large bowl.
- Add essential oils (optional) – Stir in for natural fragrance and cleaning boost.
- Store – Keep in an airtight container or glass jar.
How to Use Homemade Detergent
- Standard washer: 2–3 tablespoons per load, depending on size.
- HE washer (high efficiency): 1-2 tablespoon per load, depending on size. NOTE: I add this right to the drum of the machine, not in the top dispenser.
- Add ½ cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener.
Tips for Best Results
- Safe for most fabrics, but always test delicate items first.
- Store in a cool, dry spot to prevent clumping.
- Pair with wool dryer balls for a fully non-toxic laundry routine.
- If you have
hard water
, you can add a splash of white vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener.
Final Thoughts
Making your own DIY laundry detergent without chemicals is one of the easiest ways to create a healthier, more eco-friendly home. You’ll save money, protect sensitive skin, and reduce waste—all while keeping your laundry fresh and clean.
Eten en Voeden’s Organic, Easy Baking Mixes.
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Try this DIY Toxic-Free Laundry Detergent, snap a photo and tag #etenenvoeden on your Facebook or Instagram stories. I love seeing what you guys create!
DIY Toxic-Free Laundry Detergent
Ingredients
- 1 bar Castile soap I prefer lavender. Cut into 1"x1" inch pieces
- 1.5 cups washing soda
- 1.5 cups baking soda
- .5 cup epsom salt
- 20-25 drops essential oil
Instructions
- In a food processor add 1/2 cup washing soda and Castile soap. Cut soap into 1" x 1" pieces
- Pulse until very fine. Will look like small crumbs
- Combine ingredients into a large bowl – Mix grated soap, remainder of washing soda, epsom salt and baking soda.
- Stir in essential oils.
- Store – Keep in an airtight container or glass jar.
