Laundry Soap

Laundry...not exactly one of my favorite chores. The washing part is okay, its the folding that gets me every time! I've been know to leave a basket (or two) sitting arund for days before I can get to it. Then, it has to get put away. Then, the whole process starts again - I get tired just thinking about it. And really, I probably spend more time thinking: oh man, time to fold the laundry AGAIN than it actually takes to do it. Well, one thing that makes laundry a lot easier to take, is saving a bundle by making your own detergent. I saw this recipe and thought, no way...point the way to the laundry aisle. But after looking at the increasing cost, I bit the bullet and gave this a shot. It was WAY easier than I thought it would be and...it actually WORKS! Just like its supposed to. The first batch I made was over 3 months ago, and I just made another today. Give it a try...the supplies are literally enough to last you for a couple of years of laundry detergent or more!

Recipe for Making Your Own Laundry Detergent:

1 cup soap flakes *
1/2 cup washing soda
1/2 cup 20 Mule Team Borax

Mix the soap flakes in a pan with 3 pints of water (6 cups) over medium heat, until it all dissolves, roughly 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the washing soda and Borax. Mix until everything thickens, another 3 minutes or so, then remove from heat. Put 1 quart (4 cups) of hot water in a 2 gallon bucket, then add the soap mixture you just made. Mix well.

Now fill the bucket with the mixture with cold water. Stir until well blended. It will thicken and separate as it cools. Now add some perfumes and/or essential oils (my favorite combo: peppermint and rosemary). Stir or shake well before using. Use 1/2 cup for each load, or more for very dirty items.