Homemade Natural Laundry Detergent: Safe, Simple & Effective

I used to buy fancy laundry detergents, thinking they were safe. But my child’s skin kept breaking out, and I couldn’t figure out why. Then I discovered something shocking: many commercial detergents contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, and fillers.

That’s when I switched to homemade natural laundry detergent. It changed everything. No more itchy skin, no wasteful plastic jugs, and I saved money. And the best part? It’s easy, safe, and it works.

Today, I’ll show you how to make your own and also share the best ready-to-buy eco-friendly detergents if DIY isn’t your thing.

What Is Homemade Natural Laundry Detergent?

Homemade natural laundry detergent is a DIY cleaning solution made from simple, safe, and eco-friendly ingredients. It replaces chemical-heavy store detergents with natural items like baking soda, washing soda, Castile soap, and essential oils.

People love it because:

• It avoids toxins and synthetic fragrances.
• It’s cheap and long-lasting.
• It’s safe for sensitive skin.
• It aligns with a sustainable lifestyle.

In short, its laundry made simple, safe, and sustainable.

Benefits of Homemade Natural Laundry Detergent

Homemade natural laundry detergent offers skin safety, eco-friendly cleaning, and cost savings. It’s one of the easiest swaps for a healthier home.

Here’s why people choose homemade natural laundry detergent

• Skin-Friendly: Traditional detergents often contain sulfates, dyes, and synthetic fragrances that cause irritation. Natural ingredients like Castile soap and baking soda clean gently without triggering eczema, rashes, or allergies.
• Eco-Friendly: Homemade detergent is biodegradable, safe for waterways, and avoids the plastic waste of commercial jugs. It’s a zero-waste, sustainable swap that protects both your home and the planet.
• Cost-Effective: A batch costs only pennies per load compared to pricey store brands. With a few basic ingredients, you can make months’ worth of detergent for the cost of one bottle of commercial soap.
• Customizable: You’re in control of fragrance and strength. Add lavender essential oil for relaxation, lemon for freshness, or tea tree oil for antibacterial power. No overpowering “fake clean” smell just light, natural scent.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need washing soda, baking soda, Castile soap is easy to find at local stores or online eco shops. No hard-to-pronounce chemicals, just everyday natural staples.

A Reddit user said: “I switched to homemade detergent after constant rashes from Tide. Never going back.” (Source)

Step-by-Step Procedures for Homemade Natural Laundry Detergent Making

Making of homemade natural laundry detergent is not so difficult. You can make powder or liquid detergent quickly and stores of many days.

Powder detergent

Powder detergent is quick to make and stores well.

Ingredients:

• 1 bar Castile soap (unscented or mild)
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1 cup baking soda
• 20 drops essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Grate the soap bar finely.
2. Mix with washing soda and baking soda.
3. Add essential oils for fragrance.
4. Store in an airtight container.

How to Use:

Add 2–3 tablespoons per load.

DIY Liquid Detergent Recipe

Liquid detergent is gentler for cold water washing.

Ingredients:

• 1 bar Castile soap
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1 cup baking soda
• 10 cups hot water
• 20 drops essential oil

Instructions:

1. Grate soap and melt in boiling water.
2. Add washing soda and baking soda. Stir until dissolved.
3. Mix with remaining hot water.
4. Let cool, then pour into jugs.
5. Shake before each use.

How to Use:

Add ½ cup per load.

Liquid vs Powder: Which One Works Better?

Powder is cheaper and longer-lasting, while liquid dissolves faster and is better for cold washes.

Tip: If you wash mostly in cold water, liquid is best. For budget and storage, choose powder.

Best Store-Bought Natural Laundry Detergents

Not into DIY? Don’t worry. Some eco brands make excellent natural detergents that are safe and effective. You can use the Eco Friendly Laundry Tips That Save Water & Energy. Here are my top picks:

1. ECOS Plant-Powered Laundry Detergent

• Key Features: Plant-based formula, hypoallergenic, HE machines safe, lavender-scented, and made with renewable energy.
• Pros: Budget-friendly, gentle for sensitive skin, biodegradable packaging and formula, available in bulk sizes.
• Cons: Lavender scent fades quickly and may be too subtle for fragrance lovers.
• Best For: Families, especially with kids or babies, who need gentle, reliable, everyday laundry soap.
• Personal Insight: My neighbor, a mom of two, swears by ECOS for her baby’s sensitive skin. She told me it was the first detergent that didn’t cause rashes. For her, the subtle scent is actually a plus.

2. Seventh Generation Free & Clear

• Key Features: Fragrance-free, EPA Safer Choice certified, dermatologist-tested, tough on dirt but safe for sensitive skin.
• Pros: Works in both standard and HE washers, strong stain removal, trusted eco brand.
• Cons: Pricier than mainstream detergents; some users report needing a little more per load.
• Best For: People with eczema, asthma, or fragrance allergies who want strong cleaning power without irritation.
• Personal Insight: I recommend this to friends with eczema because it’s one of the few detergents consistently praised by dermatologists and parents in online communities. On Reddit, one user wrote: “This is the only detergent that didn’t give me hives.”

3. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap

• Key Features: USDA organic, concentrated, biodegradable, and multi-use works for laundry, dishes, and even as body wash.
• Pros: Versatile and eco-friendly; one bottle replaces multiple cleaning products. Scents like peppermint and lavender add natural freshness.
• Cons: Requires dilution for laundry use, and can leave residue if not measured properly.
• Best For: Minimalists or eco-conscious shoppers who want one product to cover many cleaning needs.
• Personal Insight: I used this during a summer camping trip it worked as dish soap, laundry detergent, and body wash. A true all-in-one. At home, I dilute it with baking soda for laundry and love the fresh smell.

4. Biokleen Natural Laundry Liquid

• Key Features: Citrus-scented, plant-based enzymes, phosphate-free, concentrated formula.
• Pros: Powerful on stains, especially for activewear and kids’ clothes; concentrated so one bottle lasts longer.
• Cons: Strong citrus scent may overwhelm sensitive noses.
• Best For: Households with kids, athletes, or messy eaters who often deal with heavy stains.
• Personal Insight: A friend who runs marathons swears Biokleen is the only natural detergent that gets the “sweat smell” out of her running gear. The citrus scent is refreshing, though I’d recommend it more for households that don’t mind a stronger fragrance.

5. Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder

• Key Features: Baking soda-based, minimal ingredients, safe for septic systems, eco-friendly packaging.
• Pros: Zero waste, very clean ingredient list, strong cleaning in warm water.
• Cons: Needs warm water to dissolve fully; not ideal for quick cold washes.
• Best For: Zero waste households and eco-conscious shoppers who want a simple, back-to-basics detergent.
• Personal Insight: I love how Molly’s Suds comes in a recyclable bag instead of a plastic jug. It feels old-school but effective. It reminds me of how my grandmother used to do laundry simple, pure, and effective.

Tips to Boost Natural Laundry Results

Boost performance with vinegar, pre-treatment, and the right washing cycle.

• Add ½ cup vinegar as a natural fabric softener: Vinegar softens fabrics, reduces static, and removes odors without leaving residue. Pour it into the rinse cycle instead of chemical softeners.
• Use baking soda paste for tough stains: Mix baking soda with a little water, apply directly to stains, and let sit before washing. It lifts grease, sweat, and odor naturally.
• Wash in cold water to save energy: Cold water protects fabrics, prevents shrinking, and cuts electricity use, making laundry more eco-friendly and cost-efficient.
• Don’t overload your washer: Cramming clothes reduces water flow and detergent effectiveness. Leave enough space so clothes can move freely for a deeper clean.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overusing detergent, skipping stain treatment, and poor storage ruin results.

• Don’t use more detergent than needed: Too much soap leaves residue, makes clothes stiff, and can even clog your washer. A small scoop is enough.
• Always pre-treat stains: Natural detergents clean well but need help with tough spots. Dab baking soda paste or Castile soap directly on stains before washing.
• Store homemade detergent in airtight containers: Exposure to air and moisture makes powders clump and liquids lose strength. Use sealed jars or bottles to keep it fresh.
• Shake liquid detergent before use: Ingredients can separate over time. A quick shake ensures an even mix for every load.

Personal Story: Why I’ll Never Go Back

I still remember the first time I used homemade detergent. The clothes smelled fresh not artificial, but clean. My child’s skin stopped itching. And I loved seeing less plastic waste pile up in my home.

Sometimes I still grab Seventh Generation when life gets busy. But knowing I can make my own anytime gives me control, peace of mind, and real savings.

Switching to homemade natural laundry detergent was one of the easiest, healthiest changes I’ve ever made. Whether you want to DIY or grab a trusted eco-brand, you’ll save money, protect your family’s health, and help the planet.

Ready to switch homemade natural laundry detergent?

Homemade natural laundry detergent is a safe, eco-friendly, and affordable way to wash clothes. It protects sensitive skin, reduces waste, and saves money. You can make it with simple ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and Castile soap or choose trusted store-bought natural detergents.

Ready to make the switch? Start with a DIY recipe today or try a trusted natural brand.  Check eco-friendly detergents here.

FAQ

1. Is homemade natural laundry detergent safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. Homemade detergent avoids harsh chemicals and fragrances, making it safer for eczema and allergies. Using Castile soap and baking soda helps protect delicate skin.

2. Does natural detergent work in HE washers?

Yes. Both DIY and store-bought natural detergents work well in high-efficiency washers. Just use smaller amounts to prevent suds buildup.

3. How long does DIY laundry detergent last?

Powder detergent lasts up to 6 months in an airtight container. Liquid lasts 2–3 months if stored in sealed bottles. Always shake liquid before use.

4. Powder vs liquid: which is better?

Powder is cheaper and stores longer, while liquid dissolves better in cold water. Choose based on your washing habits and storage needs.

5. Can you use vinegar with homemade detergent?

Yes. Vinegar works as a natural fabric softener and odor remover. Add ½ cup during the rinse cycle.

6. Do homemade detergents really clean clothes?

Yes. When made with washing soda, baking soda, and Castile soap, they clean effectively and remove odors naturally.

7. What’s the best natural detergent brand if I don’t DIY?

Seventh Generation and Molly’s Suds are highly rated for performance, safety, and eco-friendliness.

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Author Bio

Color Canvass Team

We are passionate about making sustainable living accessible and practical for every household. With years of experience in eco-friendly home decor and sustainable lifestyle research and content creation, we aim to empower you to reduce waste and live healthier while supporting brands that care for the planet.