If homemade dishwasher detergent easy is on your radar, this short guide cuts through the noise. Here is what is worth knowing, and how to put it to work today.
Key Takeaways
- Jump to Instructions Print InstructionsRunning out of dishwasher detergent can be a hassle, but don’t worry!
- You can easily make your own homemade dishwasher detergent with simple ingredients.
- This DIY detergent is not only budget-friendly but also eco-friendly, ensuring your dishes are clean without harsh chemicals.
Running out of dishwasher detergent can be a hassle, but don’t worry! You can easily make your own homemade dishwasher detergent with simple ingredients. This DIY detergent is not only budget-friendly but also eco-friendly, ensuring your dishes are clean without harsh chemicals. Follow this simple recipe and never stress about running out of dishwasher detergent again!
Why Choose Homemade Dishwasher Detergent?
We’ve all been there, reaching for that trusty dishwasher detergent only to find the container empty or down to the last pod. The usual reaction is to add it to the grocery list or dash to the store. But what if you didn’t have to?
In times when running to the store isn’t an option, knowing how to make your own supplies is empowering. This homemade dishwasher detergent recipe is a game-changer for your “Make It Myself” file. It’s simple, cost-effective, and gives you peace of mind knowing you can handle it yourself.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Making your own dishwasher detergent is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
An airtight container
A wide-mouth Mason jar is perfect for this homemade detergent. Its wide mouth makes it simple to scoop from and the lid keeps everything airtight. However, any plastic or glass container with a tightly fitting lid will work just fine. In a pinch, even a zip-type plastic bag will do the trick.
Baking soda
This is your ordinary baking soda, also known as bicarbonate of soda. It’s a common household item and can be found in the baking aisle of any grocery store or online.
Washing soda
Look for Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda in the laundry aisle of supermarkets, discount stores like Walmart and Target, or online. Washing soda is a close cousin to baking soda, known as sodium carbonate. The generic version, soda ash, is also available and is typically less expensive.
Borax
Borax is sold in various forms, with Twenty-Mule Team Borax being the most familiar brand, typically found in the laundry aisle near the washing soda. You can also find generic borax in larger, more affordable quantities.
Salt
Any type of table salt will work, whether it’s table salt, Kosher salt, or sea salt. Just make sure it’s not Epsom salt, which is completely different and not suitable for this recipe.
Citric acid
You can find citric acid in health food stores and online. An excellent and fun substitute is Unsweetened Lemon or Lemon-Lime Kool-Aid. Just ensure it’s unsweetened and lemon or lemon-lime flavored, no other flavors will do!
Lemon essential oil
This is optional, but if you have some Lemon Essential Oil on hand, it will give your detergent a lovely fragrance and a little extra cleaning boost.
Pro Tips for Storing and Using Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Washing soda and borax can sometimes get hard and clumpy. To ensure your detergent stays nice and powdery, avoid multiplying this recipe. Instead, make smaller batches as needed. Here’s a nifty trick: those little silica gel packs that come with shoes and bags? Toss one into your container of detergent instead of throwing it away. It will help keep your detergent loose and ready to use.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Start by gathering your ingredients: baking soda, borax, washing soda, salt, and citric acid. Carefully measure and add each one to a container, just don’t include the white vinegar yet! Once all the dry ingredients are in, give them a good mix to ensure everything is well combined. Secure the lid tightly to keep your homemade detergent fresh.
When you’re ready to use it, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture to your dishwasher, just like you would with any commercial dishwasher powder. For an extra touch of sparkle on your glassware, place a small container filled halfway with white vinegar (about ½ cup) on the top rack. While this step is optional, it lets you ensure your dishes come out super clean and shiny. And there you have it, clean dishes without the store-bought detergent!
Resources
While numerous of these items can be found at your local supermarket, we’ve included links and images from Amazon for your convenience and reference.
SEWANTA Wide Mouth Mason Jars 32 oz [4 Pack] With... $26.99 Purchase on Amazon Arm and Hammer, Baking Soda, 43.2 Ounce $7.75 Purchase on Amazon Save $0.61 ARM & HAMMER Super Washing Soda Household Cleaner... $5.99 $5.38 Purchase on Amazon Organic Cotton Plus Soda Ash - 1 Pound $9.95 Purchase on Amazon Borax 20 Mule Team Laundry Booster, Powder...Final Thoughts
The bottom line: a little research on homemade dishwasher detergent easy goes a long way. Compare your options, watch for seasonal offers, and never pay full price when a better deal is one click away.
Originally published at everydaycheapskate.com.
