Homemade Lavender Laundry Detergent

A little while back, I mentioned that I would soon be trying out some homemade laundry detergent based on a  recipe I found here. Well, I am already on my second batch and I love it! It's easy to make and does a great job at getting our clothes clean.

Here's the recipe...(For a printable version, click here.)

Homemade Lavender Laundry Detergent
(Makes approximately 5 cups)

2 cups finely grated lavender castile soap*
1 cup borax
1 cup baking soda
1 cup washing soda

*I use Dr. Bronner's lavendar soap. It smells so good!

I wanted to make some type of spot treatment as well. I did a little "Googling" and found this idea. I've used it a couple of times and it works well. You basically take the soap bits leftover from making your detergent, place them in a small jar (I reuse a baby food jar), add boiling water, and allow the soap to melt. 

I put the lid on and shook it up a little to help speed the process. After a few hours, it will turn into a mousse-like soap jelly. If you get a little spot on your clothes, just dab a bit of the soap jelly on the spot and rub in. This works as a good concentrated pre-wash treatment. If you get something on your carpet or furniture, just take a bit of the soap jelly and rub it onto the spot with a rag and a little bit of water. It should come right out. For extra stubborn stains, use a little baking soda mixed with hydrogen peroxide. 

Note: I still continue to use Charlie's Soap for my cloth diapers. Click here for more information on selecting the right detergent for your cloth diapers.

Always, 

Amanda