Powdered Laundry Detergent

A few years ago, I was noticing that my laundry didn't feel or smell very clean, even after just removing it from the dryer. I also noticed that I could smell some "chemical" or "sulfate" odor in the liquid detergent I had been using. I used a popular, but less expensive brand than the one that comes in the orange container. I definitely noticed the chemical odor in that laundry detergent.

I was able to justify not buying the orange bottle due to the price, but when my less expensive brand started to have that strong chemical smell too, I couldn't ignore it any longer. I knew I had to start looking for an alternative.

When a good friend of my daughter's shared a recipe for the powder detergent that she uses at her resort, I tried it, and I am still using it today.

This is a cost-effective alternative that works well. I make this detergent twice a year, and it has been more than enough for this household.

Tools Needed:

Large container to mix/store in

Spoon

Mask/gloves (optional)

Ingredients:

1 1.3-pound container of Oxy Clean

1 4-pound box of baking soda

2 boxes Super Washing Soda

1 4-pound box Borax

1 39-ounce container of Purex Crystals (Or whichever brand you prefer)

Directions:

Add all the ingredients together in a large container (4-gallon tote shown).

I recommend being in a well-ventilated area and wearing a mask, as these powders are fine and create "dust" that should not be inhaled. You can use a spoon to mix the ingredients, but I find it easier to put on a pair of latex or kitchen gloves and mix by hand.

The washing soda and Borax tend to clump if there is any humidity in the air. If you mix it with your hands, you will be able to break up the clumps.

Once you have the ingredients mixed well, store in an air tight container.

To use: Add 2 tablespoons of powder detergent to each load of laundry.

Happy washing!