Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe: Clean, Fresh, and Affordable

Making your own laundry detergent is one of the easiest ways to cut household costs while still keeping your clothes fresh and clean. This simple recipe uses affordable ingredients, takes only a few minutes to mix, and can last up to a full year depending on your laundry routine. It’s a great option for anyone looking to save money, reduce harsh chemicals, or enjoy a custom-scented detergent.

This recipe starts with a small bag of Foca laundry detergent, which provides the main cleaning power. Baking soda and borax help remove odors and boost stain-fighting ability. Oxi clean adds extra brightening and whitening, and Epsom salt acts as a natural softener. The total cost of all the ingredients is under twenty-five dollars, making this homemade detergent far more budget-friendly than buying commercial brands.

To make the detergent, combine one small bag of Foca laundry detergent, one box of baking soda, one 65-ounce box of borax, one small container of Oxi clean powder, and one 4-pound bag of Epsom salt. You can choose scented or unscented Epsom salt depending on your preference. Mix everything thoroughly in a large storage container. A 27-quart tote works well because it provides plenty of space to stir the ingredients evenly.

If you enjoy scented laundry, you can add optional fragrance beads or crystals. This step lets you control how strong or subtle the final scent will be. Many people use a container of scent boosters, but any brand works. For scooping, an inexpensive ice scoop is perfect and easy to use.

This homemade laundry detergent is a straightforward DIY project that pays off for months. It cleans well, smells fresh, and costs a fraction of store-bought detergent. Whether you’re trying to save money, reduce waste, or simply enjoy a reliable cleaning mix that lasts, this recipe is a practical solution for any household.

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