DIY Dishwasher Detergent Recipe: Simple, Effective, and Eco-Friendly
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4 Simple Ingredients
In today’s world, where convenience often outweighs sustainability, it’s refreshing to return to simple, homemade solutions that are both economical and effective. Making your own dishwasher detergent is not only a step towards self-sufficiency but also a way to reduce the chemical load in your home and minimize environmental impact.
At Rustic Roots & Simple Living, we’re all about finding practical ways to simplify life and make it a little greener. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true homemade dishwasher detergent recipe that uses just four ingredients you likely already have in your cleaning arsenal. If not, links are below and Amazon will kindly deliver to your door!
The Recipe
Ingredients:
9.17 oz Washing Soda
9.87 oz Sodium Borate (Borax)
4 oz Citric Acid Powder
7.58 oz Epsom Salt
Mix to uniform consistency.
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Store the mixture in an airtight container. A glass jar with a lid or a recycled plastic container works perfectly. I like the glass jars with the flip top lid.
To use, add 1-2 tablespoons to your dishwasher’s detergent compartment per load.
Why Make Your Own Dishwasher Detergent?
1. Cost-Effective
Commercial dishwasher detergents can add up over time, especially if you’re running multiple loads per week. This homemade version costs just pennies per load, giving you an effective cleaning solution without breaking the bank.
2. Environmentally Friendly
By making your own detergent, you cut back on single-use plastic packaging and reduce your reliance on synthetic chemicals that can harm aquatic ecosystems. Every little bit helps!
3. Customizable for Your Needs
The recipe is easy to tweak based on your water type or personal preferences. For instance:
Hard water? Adjust the amount of citric acid to combat mineral buildup.
Prefer a natural scent? Add a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil to the mix.
4. Safe for Your Family
Homemade dishwasher detergent eliminates unnecessary additives and artificial fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin or leave harmful residues on dishes.
5. Effective and Reliable
The combination of washing soda and borax tackles tough grease, while citric acid ensures a streak-free shine. Epsom salt softens water, preventing buildup and boosting the overall cleaning power.
Tips for Best Results
Rinse Aid: To prevent water spots, consider adding white vinegar as a rinse aid in your dishwasher.
Storage: Keep your detergent in a cool, dry place to avoid clumping. If clumping occurs, simply break it apart before use.
Test Your Water: If you find residue on your dishes, adjust the proportions of Epsom salt and citric acid to suit your water’s hardness.
Although I have never had any issues with this recipe, I have read in the googleverse that it's important to consider potential impacts on your dishwasher. The safety and effectiveness of homemade detergents depend on their ingredients and how they're used. I have also read that using commercially produced “cheap” dishwashing detergent can also cause buildup due to fillers added to it.
Potential Risks:
Residue Buildup: Some homemade detergents may not dissolve completely, leading to residue accumulation in the dishwasher's components, which can affect performance over time.
Improper Cleaning: If the detergent lacks necessary cleaning agents, dishes may not be thoroughly cleaned, resulting in food particles clogging filters and spray arms.
Corrosion: Ingredients like citric acid are common in homemade detergents for their cleaning properties. However, excessive use can potentially corrode metal parts of the dishwasher. It's advisable to use such ingredients in moderation and ensure they're properly dissolved.
Recommendations:
Test in Small Batches: Before regular use, test your homemade detergent to ensure it cleans effectively without leaving residues.
Regular Maintenance: Clean your dishwasher's filters and spray arms regularly to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance.
Consult Manufacturer Guidelines: Review your dishwasher's user manual for any warnings against specific ingredients.
A Step Toward Simplicity
Making your own dishwasher detergent is a small but meaningful step toward a more intentional and sustainable lifestyle. It’s one of those everyday actions that embodies the heart of Rustic Roots & Simple Living—combining practical wisdom with eco-friendly choices.
Have you tried making your own cleaning products? Share your experiences or tweaks to this recipe in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to live simply, naturally, and beautifully!
