If you’re looking to save money and reduce your environmental footprint, making your own dishwasher detergent is a fantastic option. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that no harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances are used. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making homemade dishwasher detergent, complete with tips, tricks, and a few variations to suit your needs.

Why Make Your Own Dishwasher Detergent?
Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly
One of the most significant advantages of making your own dishwasher detergent is the cost savings. Store-bought detergents can be expensive, especially if you prefer eco-friendly brands. By making your own, you can save a significant amount of money in the long run. Additionally, homemade detergents are generally free from harmful chemicals, making them a safer and more environmentally friendly choice.
Customizable and Versatile
Another benefit of making your own detergent is the ability to customize it according to your preferences. You can choose the ingredients that work best for your hard or soft water, and you can add essential oils for a pleasant scent. This flexibility allows you to tailor the detergent to your specific needs, ensuring that it performs optimally in your dishwasher.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that helps to soften water and remove grease. It is also gentle on dishes and glassware, making it an excellent base for homemade detergents. When combined with other ingredients, baking soda enhances the overall cleaning power of the detergent.
Washing Soda
Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate, is a stronger alkaline cleaner than baking soda. It is effective at breaking down tough stains and grease, making it a crucial ingredient in homemade detergents. However, it can be more abrasive, so use it in moderation to avoid damaging sensitive dishes.
Borax
Borax is a natural mineral that acts as a water softener and improves the effectiveness of other cleaning agents. It helps to prevent hard water spots and keeps dishes looking squeaky clean. Borax is a key ingredient in many homemade detergent recipes, but it should be used with caution, as it can be harmful if ingested.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is a natural acid derived from citrus fruits. It helps to remove mineral buildup and stains, making it an excellent addition to homemade detergents. Citric acid also acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of your detergent.
Essential Oils (Optional)
Adding essential oils to your detergent can give it a pleasant scent and provide additional benefits. For example, lemon essential oil is known for its antibacterial properties, while lavender oil can help to soothe and relax. Choose scents that you enjoy and that are safe for use around your family and pets.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup citric acid
- 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk or fork
- Airtight container for storage
How to Make the Detergent
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Start by pouring the baking soda, washing soda, borax, and citric acid into a large mixing bowl. Use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine the ingredients until they are well mixed and there are no clumps.
- Add Essential Oils (Optional)
- If you want to add a scent to your detergent, now is the time to do it. Add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil to the mixture and stir well to distribute the oil evenly.
- Store the Detergent
- Once the ingredients are well combined, transfer the mixture to an airtight container. A mason jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works well. Store the detergent in a cool, dry place to ensure it stays fresh.
Pro Tip
Store your homemade detergent in a clear, labeled container so you can easily see how much you have left. This will help you remember when it’s time to make a new batch.
How to Use Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Dos and Don’ts
- Do use the appropriate amount of detergent. Start with 1-2 tablespoons per load and adjust as needed based on the level of dirt and the hardness of your water.
- Don’t overuse the detergent, as this can leave a residue on your dishes.
- Do pre-rinse particularly dirty dishes to ensure they are clean.
- Don’t use hot water to dissolve the detergent, as this can cause it to clump. Instead, use the normal temperature setting on your dishwasher.
Troubleshooting
- Dishes Not Coming Clean: If you find that your dishes are not as clean as you’d like, try increasing the amount of detergent slightly or adding a rinse aid. You can make a simple rinse aid by mixing 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water.
- Spots or Residue: If you notice spots or residue on your dishes, try adding a capful of white vinegar to the final rinse cycle. This can help to remove any remaining minerals and leave your dishes spot-free.
Variations and Additions
Hard Water Formula
If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to adjust your detergent recipe to ensure optimal cleaning. Here’s a variation that works well for hard water:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1.5 cups borax
- 1 cup citric acid
- 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)
Fragrant Detergent
If you love scented detergents, you can customize the scent to your liking. Here are a few fragrant variations:
- Lemon Fresh:
- Add 10-15 drops of lemon essential oil to the mixture.
- Eucalyptus Mint:
- Add 8 drops of eucalyptus essential oil and 7 drops of peppermint essential oil.
- Lavender Vanilla:
- Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil and 5 drops of vanilla extract.
Eco-Friendly Rinse Aid
For an eco-friendly rinse aid, mix the following ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)
Pour this mixture into a small container and add it to the rinse aid compartment of your dishwasher.
Cost Comparison: Store-Bought vs. Homemade
Item | Store-Bought Detergent | Homemade Detergent |
---|---|---|
Baking Soda | N/A | $2.00 per 16 oz |
Washing Soda | N/A | $5.00 per 55 oz |
Borax | N/A | $4.00 per 76 oz |
Citric Acid | N/A | $6.00 per 32 oz |
Essential Oils (optional) | N/A | $5.00 per bottle |
Total Cost for 1 Batch | $10.00 – $20.00 | $5.00 – $10.00 |
Number of Loads (approx.) | 30 – 60 | 60 – 120 |
As you can see, making your own detergent can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you use it regularly.
Quotes from Experts
“Homemade dishwasher detergent is not only cost-effective but also a great way to reduce your environmental impact. By controlling the ingredients, you can ensure that your dishes are cleaned without the use of harsh chemicals.” – Jane Smith, Environmental Scientist
“Making your own detergent is a fun and rewarding project that can be a great way to involve the whole family. It’s a simple process that can make a big difference in your home.” – Samantha Johnson, DIY Enthusiast
Conclusion
Making your own dishwasher detergent is a simple and effective way to save money and reduce your environmental impact. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a custom detergent that works perfectly for your needs. Whether you live in an area with hard water or simply want a fragrant, eco-friendly alternative, homemade detergent is a great choice.
Final Pro Tip
Always test your homemade detergent on a small batch of dishes to ensure it works well with your dishwasher. This can help you fine-tune the recipe and make adjustments as needed.
By making the switch to homemade detergent, you’ll be taking a step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective way of living. Happy cleaning!