I adapted my popular washing powder recipe to create this liquid laundry detergent version, purely for those of you who have machines that don’t take powder. It’s a slightly messier and longer process to make and I personally prefer the powder (but my machine takes either). In saying that, this is a great liquid that produces great results.
In fact, I can’t tell the difference in results between powder/liquid. And with no soap suds, this formula is suitable for front and top loader washing machines.
Liquid Laundry Detergent
Makes: 6.9 lt Prep time: < 5 min.
Ingredients
- 1.2 lt Soapberry Master Stock (click here for the recipe)
- 4.5 lt hot water (see recipe notes)
- 2 cups | 520 g sodium carbonate (washing soda)
- 2 cups | 440 g borax
- 1 cup | 280 g fine salt
- 2-3 drops of essential oils (optional, per use)
My Choice of Essential Oils
My favourite essential oils in this recipe are lemon and eucalyptus, but don’t be limited by my suggestions. Use oils that fit your budget, or those that you already have in your collection. Read here for more information on essential oils.
Method
1. Make a batch of Soapberry Master Stock. Don’t allow it to cool.
2. Pour hot master stock and hot water into a large container (with lid) and mix until combined.
3. Add remaining ingredients and mix until powdered ingredients have dissolved.
To Use
Pour approximately 1 cup of liquid directly into washing machine or designated compartment. If you’re using essential oils, add to liquid before pouring into machine. Wash on your usual setting; warm water is only marginally more effective than cold. Shake well prior to each use. Check out my Fabric Softener recipe too.
Recipe Notes
If you are unable to make the Soapberry Master Stock, substitute it with 2 cups | 280 g fine soap powder and 1 lt hot water, dissolved. Note that this will result in a much thicker, gel-like liquid, which you can dilute further with water if required. I recommend sourcing the purest laundry soap you can find – check the ingredients panels and watch for fragrance especially. I use pure coconut soap powder, or castile soap powder. If you are buying soap in a block, make sure it is milled to a very fine consistency.
While I am comfortable using natural borax for cleaning applications (check out this blog post), you might prefer to avoid it. If so, just leave it out – simple. I don’t notice a difference in cleaning results.
If you’re after an extra cleaning boost, add 1 tablespoon of sodium percarbonate per load.
11 Comments
Hi Krissy
In the recipe notes above you said if unable to use soapberries, to use 2 cups fine soap powder and I lit hot water. Is it possible to use liquid castile soap? (that’s what I currently have) If yes how much?
Thanks in advance
Wilma Anvieh
Maybe try a 1/4 batch and see how you like the performance before making a full batch. I’d start with 1:4 ratio of Castile soap to water as a sub. You can always add more Castile if needed. Good luck.
Is there a reason why you can’t just add the essential oils to the whole mixture? Why do you need to add them each use?
They’re optional and don’t impact the recipe too much so some people prefer to leave them out. If you add it to the batch you will need to shake well just prior to use to make sure they disperse (temporarily).
I love this for washing my clothes it’s so cheap and so much better for my family
An you use liquid Castile soap instead of the dissolved soap powder please?
Do you mean instead of the soapberry stock? You could, but maybe 1/4 the batch and make sure you like the results.
Cant wait to make this
Awesome, come back and share your feedback once you do! Happy making 🙂
Hi, I made up this recipe but have found there is sediment (crystals) that form in the base of my container. I guess I have to re-heat to dissolve these, or place the container in hot water. Any tips as to why these crystals form?
Hi Jan, just give it a shake prior to use. It won’t matter if they make their way into your machine as crystals though.