So I have been making my own laundry detergent for the past year now. It is so quick and easy and it works out to approx $7 kg - I'm sure I could make it cheaper if I bought in bulk and/or shopped around but I haven't as yet. I use about 1 tablespoon each wash and everything comes out very clean. There are a few versions out there but the recipe I use I have included below. I usually make a few batches at once and only add the essential oil to the batch that I am immediately going to use. Batches without essential oils added can be stored in plastic tubs. I have a Miele high efficiency front loading washing machine and this detergent works well with my machine.
Ingredients
1 cup borax1 bar of laundry soap (e.g velvet) grated
Essential oil of your choice for scent
Method
1 cup washing soda1. Grate the bar(s) of soap. I use the grating disc on my food processor.
2. Process grated soap with food processor chopping blade until it is a fine powder
3. Add borax and washing soda to food processor and process until homogeneous.
4. Add essential oil a few drops at a time. Pulse with food processor until mixed through. Add more to make it to the strength of fragrance you like. I use eucalyptus.
5. Store in a sealed glass jar.
6. Use 1 tablespoon per full load of washing. If washing is heavily stained, pre-treat with a stain remover.
