If you’re trying to reduce toxins in your home, laundry detergent is one of the easiest (and most impactful) places to start. Most conventional detergents are packed with artificial fragrances, fillers, and harsh chemicals that stick to your clothes and sit on your skin all day and night long.
This non-toxic DIY laundry detergent is something I’ve personally been using, and it’s simple, budget-friendly, and actually works, even for kid messes, smelly clothes, and everyday loads.
Why Make Your Own Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent?
Switching to a homemade laundry detergent has been a game changer in our home. Here’s why I love it:
• Made with simple, recognizable ingredients
• No synthetic fragrances or dyes
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin
• Costs significantly less than store-bought “clean” brands
• One batch lasts weeks
If you are striving towards a more non toxic household, this is the perfect place to start.
How to Use This Homemade Laundry Detergent:
Using this detergent is simple and works in both high efficiency, and standard washing machines.
• Normal load: 2–3 tablespoons
• Large or extra dirty load: 4 tablespoons
• Optional boost: Add ¼–½ cup baking soda directly into the wash for extra deodorizing power
Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent Recipe
This DIY laundry detergent recipe makes a large batch that stores well and lasts a long time.
• 1 bar Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap
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• 2 cups Washing Soda
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• 2 cups Borax
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• 1 cup Baking Soda
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• 20+ drops Lavender Essential Oil (optional)
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How to Make It:
1. Grate the bar of Castile soap using a cheese grater or food processor.
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2. In a large bowl, mix the grated soap with washing soda, borax, and baking soda.
3. Add lavender essential oil if using and mix thoroughly.
4. Store in an airtight container.
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Is This Laundry Detergent Safe for Sensitive Skin?
Yes! This recipe is free from synthetic fragrances, optical brighteners, and unnecessary fillers. If you or your kids have very sensitive skin, you can skip the essential oils altogether and use the unscented version.
Why I Use Lavender Essential Oil (Optional)
Lavender essential oil adds a light, clean scent without artificial fragrance. It’s completely optional, but I like it because it leaves clothes smelling fresh without being overpowering. You can also substitute the lavender soap for an unscented bar. https://amzn.to/4s7MOdP
Final Thoughts on Homemade Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent:
This is one of the easiest non-toxic swaps you can make. It’s affordable, effective, and gives you complete control over what touches your family’s clothes. If you’re slowly moving toward a more non-toxic lifestyle, this is a great place to start.
Saves us so much money and makes our clothes smell great and best part, its clean and good for your skin!
Love to hear this! So happy you made the change!
Wow! Super helpful! Love this alternative!
Glad we could help. Enjoy this amazing Non-toxic laundry swap.
Never thought I would be able to replace my laundry detergent with a non toxic option. This is great!
We are happy you made the switch! We have so many other non-toxic DIY alternatives coming soon!
This is a game changer! Never buying toxic laundry detergent again. Thanks for posting.
Once you see how easy it is to make the switch to a non-toxic lifestyle, you will never want to go back! Glad we could help!
Was looking for something that would be natural and gentle for my babies clothes. Doesnt have any of that sythetic chemicals and toxins and makes their clothes soft and clean.
This makes us so happy to hear and your baby will thank you for choosing the right thing! Works like magic for hard to remove stains and smelly clothes. Thats why we love this recipe so much!