DIY Liquid Laundry Soap Article at a Glance:
- DIY liquid laundry soap is a homemade detergent made from grated bar soap, washing soda, borax, and water.
- It is inexpensive, effective for everyday laundry, and allows full control over ingredients.
- One batch takes about 20 minutes to prepare and can last for weeks when stored properly.
- You can make liquid laundry soap at home by dissolving grated soap in hot water, adding washing soda and borax, then diluting and cooling the mixture. Use about 1/2 cup per load for regular laundry.
Still using commercial laundry soap all these years? If you’re tired of feeling the pinch on your wallet and a nagging prick on your environmental conscience, then maybe it’s time for something else. DIY liquid laundry soap is a simple, low-cost alternative to store-bought detergent made from basic household ingredients. This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to make homemade liquid laundry soap, how to use it safely, and what to expect from its cleaning performance.
What Is DIY Liquid Laundry Soap?
DIY liquid laundry soap is a homemade detergent created by dissolving grated bar soap with washing soda and borax in water. It cleans everyday laundry effectively, costs far less than commercial detergent, and allows you to control ingredients—making it popular with homesteaders and families seeking simpler living.
Why Make Your Own Liquid Laundry Soap?
Making your own liquid laundry soap helps reduce household expenses, limits exposure to synthetic fragrances and dyes, and provides a reliable backup when store-bought detergent is unavailable. One batch can last weeks or months while costing only a few dollars to make.
Benefits include:
- Lower cost per load
- Customizable or fragrance-free formulas
- Simple ingredients with minimal packaging waste
- Long shelf life when stored properly
What Ingredients Do You Need to Make Liquid Laundry Soap?
You only need a few basic ingredients to make homemade liquid laundry soap. These items are widely available at grocery or hardware stores.
Ingredients:
- 1 bar soap (Fels-Naptha, Zote, or Castile soap)
- 1/2 cup washing soda
- 1/2 cup borax
- 2 gallons water
- Optional: 10–20 drops essential oil for scent
Tools:
- Large pot
- Cheese grater
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cup note
- Storage containers with lids
How Do You Make DIY Liquid Laundry Soap?
DIY liquid laundry soap is made by dissolving grated soap in hot water, mixing in washing soda and borax, then diluting and cooling the mixture before storage.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Grate the soap Finely grate the bar soap using a cheese grater. Smaller pieces dissolve more easily.
- Heat water Pour 1 gallon of water into a large pot and heat it on the stove until hot but not boiling.
- Dissolve the soap Add the grated soap to the hot water and stir continuously until fully dissolved.
- Add washing soda and borax Slowly stir in the washing soda and borax. Continue stirring until the mixture is clear and fully blended.
- Dilute and cool Remove from heat. Add the remaining gallon of water and stir. Let the mixture cool completely.
- Transfer to containers Pour the cooled soap into storage containers. Stir or shake before each use, as separation is normal.
How Much Homemade Laundry Soap Should You Use Per Load?
Use 1/2 cup of homemade liquid laundry soap for a regular load of laundry. For heavily soiled clothes, increase to 3/4 cup. Using more than recommended does not improve cleaning and may leave residue on clothing.
Does Homemade Laundry Soap Clean as Well as Store-Bought Detergent?
Homemade liquid laundry soap cleans everyday dirt and odors effectively. However, it does not contain enzymes or optical brighteners, so it may be less effective on heavy grease stains or set-in odors compared to commercial detergents.
For best results, pretreat stains or occasionally alternate with store-bought detergent for heavily soiled loads.
Is Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap Safe for Sensitive Skin?
Homemade laundry soap can be gentler than many commercial detergents because it avoids artificial fragrances and dyes. However, borax may irritate extremely sensitive skin. If irritation occurs, discontinue use or switch to a borax-free recipe.
Always test on a small load if you have skin sensitivities or wash baby clothes.
Can Homemade Laundry Soap Damage Washing Machines?
When used in proper amounts, homemade liquid laundry soap is generally safe for standard washing machines. Avoid overuse, as excess soap can lead to residue buildup in both clothes and machines over time.
How Long Does Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap Last?
Homemade liquid laundry soap typically lasts 3 to 6 months when stored in sealed containers at room temperature. Separation or thickening is normal and does not affect cleaning power—simply stir before use.
How Should You Store Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap?
Store homemade laundry soap in tightly sealed containers away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Label containers clearly and keep out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade laundry soap in high-efficiency (HE) washers?
Yes, homemade liquid laundry soap can be used in HE washers when measured carefully. Use no more than 1/3–1/2 cup per load.
Can I skip borax?
Yes. Borax helps boost cleaning power, but it can be omitted for a gentler soap. Cleaning performance may be slightly reduced.
Why does my soap gel or separate?
Homemade laundry soap naturally thickens or separates as it cools. This is normal and does not affect performance.
Final Thoughts
DIY liquid laundry soap is an affordable, practical option for households looking to simplify expenses and ingredients. While it may not replace commercial detergents for every situation, it performs well for everyday laundry and offers full transparency into what you use on your clothes.
With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can keep your laundry clean while saving money and reducing reliance on store-bought products.
Alternatively, you can also check out our article on How to Make Your Own DIY Liquid Laundry Detergent.
