How to Make Liquid Dishwasher Detergent

Making your own liquid dishwasher detergent is a simple and cost-effective way to clean your dishes while reducing your dependency on store-bought products. By using a few natural and easily accessible ingredients, you can create a solution that is not only effective but also environmentally friendly.

This guide on how to make liquid dishwasher detergent will walk you through the steps to create your own homemade liquid dishwasher detergent, helping you save money and minimize chemical use in your home.

Why Make Your Own Liquid Dishwasher Detergent?

Save Money:

Making your own liquid dishwasher detergent can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying store-bought products. Not only are the ingredients more affordable, but they also last longer, providing you with more value for your money. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your budget and customize it according to your preferences.

Reduce Chemical Exposure:

Many store-bought dishwasher detergents contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both your health and the environment. By making your own liquid dishwasher detergent, you have control over the ingredients used and can avoid using harmful chemicals such as phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances.

With homemade detergent, you also eliminate the need for plastic packaging and reduce your carbon footprint. This small change can make a big impact on reducing chemical exposure in your home and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.

What You Will Need

1 Cup of Borax:

Borax is a naturally occurring mineral that acts as a detergent booster, helping to remove tough stains and grease from your dishes.

1 Cup of Washing Soda:

Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate, is another natural cleaning agent that helps soften water and remove stubborn food particles.

1/2 Cup of Citric Acid:

Citric acid is a natural cleaner and disinfectant that effectively breaks down grease and removes hard water stains from dishes. You can find it in the canning section of most grocery stores.

1/2 Cup of Kosher Salt:

Kosher salt helps to scrub away residue and grime, leaving your dishes sparkling clean.

Essential Oils (Optional):

Adding a few drops of essential oils like lemon or lavender not only adds a fresh scent but also boosts the cleaning power of your detergent.

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Make Liquid Dishwasher Detergent

Step 1: In a Large Pot, Bring 12 Cups of Water to a Boil 

Start by filling a large pot with 12 cups of water and placing it on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow the water to come to a rolling boil.

This step is crucial as hot water will help dissolve the ingredients evenly, ensuring your liquid dishwasher detergent has a smooth, uniform consistency.

Step 2: Add the Borax, Washing Soda, and Kosher Salt to the Boiling Water

Once the water is boiling, add in 1 cup of borax, 1 cup of washing soda, and 1/2 cup of kosher salt. Stir continuously until all the ingredients are fully dissolved.

Borax and washing soda should be handled with gloves as they can irritate sensitive skin.

Step 3: Remove from Heat and Add Citric Acid 

After ensuring that the borax, washing soda, and kosher salt are fully dissolved, carefully remove the pot from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly for a minute or two before adding 1/2 cup of citric acid.

Slowly pour the citric acid into the pot while stirring continuously to prevent clumping. The citric acid will help enhance the cleaning power of your detergent, breaking down grease and tackling hard water stains effectively. Stir until the citric acid is completely dissolved.

Step 4: Let the Mixture Cool 

After adding and dissolving the citric acid, set the pot aside and allow the mixture to cool completely. This step is essential to ensure the detergent thickens properly and reaches a manageable temperature for transferring to storage containers.

Stir occasionally as the mixture cools to maintain an even consistency. Once cooled, the detergent will be ready for the next steps in the process.

Step 5: Transfer to Storage Containers 

Using a large funnel or ladle, carefully transfer the detergent mixture into storage containers of your choice. You can use old dish soap bottles, mason jars, or any other container with a secure lid. Glass containers are recommended as they are more environmentally friendly and can be reused multiple times.

The detergent may thicken slightly as it sits, so gently shake or stir it before each use to ensure an even consistency.

Step 6: Add Essential Oils (Optional) 

If desired, you can add a few drops of essential oils like lemon or lavender to your liquid dishwasher detergent. Essential oils not only add a pleasant scent but also act as natural disinfectants and boost the cleaning power of the detergent.

Be careful not to add too much essential oil, as it can overpower the other ingredients and leave a residue on dishes.

Step 7: Use and Store Your Homemade Liquid Dishwasher Detergent 

To use your homemade liquid dishwasher detergent, simply pour about 1/4 cup into your dishwasher’s detergent compartment and run a regular cycle. You can also use this detergent for handwashing dishes by adding a small amount to a sink of hot water.

Store the remaining detergent in a cool, dry place for future use. It should last for several months if stored properly.

Step 8: Experiment with Different Recipes 

Making your own liquid dishwasher detergent is not an exact science, so feel free to experiment with different ingredient ratios or add other natural cleaning agents like baking soda or vinegar to find the best combination that works for you.

You can also try different essential oil blends for a unique scent and added benefits. Have fun and be creative with your homemade liquid dishwasher detergent recipe!

Following these simple steps on how to make liquid dishwasher detergent, you can create a natural and effective liquid dishwasher detergent that is safe for your health and the planet. With eco-friendly ingredients and customizable scents, making your own detergent not only saves money but also promotes a more sustainable lifestyle. Give it a try and see the difference in your dishes and the environment!

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredient ratios and essential oils to find the best combination for your needs.
• Use hot water when making the detergent, as it helps dissolve the ingredients evenly for a smooth consistency.
• Add essential oils in small amounts to avoid an overpowering scent or residue on dishes.
• Let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to storage containers. Stir occasionally as it cools to maintain an even consistency.
• Store the detergent in a cool, dry place for maximum shelf life. Glass containers are recommended for their eco-friendliness and reusability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using hot water: Hot water is essential to dissolve the ingredients evenly and create a smooth, uniform consistency.
• Adding too much essential oil: Essential oils can overpower and leave a residue on dishes if used in excess. Use them sparingly.
• Storing the detergent in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures: This can cause the ingredients to separate and affect the effectiveness of your detergent.
• Using regular table salt instead of kosher salt: Regular table salt contains iodine, which can discolor certain dishes and negatively impact the cleaning power of your detergent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Homemade Liquid Dishwasher Detergent Safe for Septic Systems?

A: Yes, this homemade liquid dishwasher detergent is safe for septic systems. The natural ingredients are gentle and will not harm your plumbing or septic system.

Q: Can I Use this Liquid Dishwasher Detergent for Handwashing Dishes?

A: Yes, you can use this detergent for handwashing dishes. Simply add a small amount to hot water and wash as usual.

Q: Can I Use Different Essential Oils in My Homemade Dishwasher Detergent?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different essential oil blends to find your preferred scent and added benefits. Just be careful not to add too much, as it may leave a residue on dishes.

Q: How Long Does the Homemade Liquid Dishwasher Detergent Last?

A: If stored properly in a cool, dry place, this liquid dishwasher detergent can last for several months. Just make sure to stir or shake it before each use as it may thicken slightly over time.

Q: Can I Customize the Recipe with Other Natural Cleaning Agents?

A: Yes, you can add other natural cleaning agents like baking soda or vinegar to your homemade liquid dishwasher detergent recipe. Feel free to experiment and find the best combination that works for you.

Conclusion

Making your own liquid dishwasher detergent is a simple and rewarding way to reduce chemical exposure in your home and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

By following the steps on how to make liquid dishwasher detergent outlined above, you can create a natural, effective cleaning solution using safe and environmentally friendly ingredients. Not only does this help protect your family from harsh chemicals, but it also minimizes waste and lowers your environmental impact.

Plus, with the ability to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, you can enjoy clean, sparkling dishes while taking an active role in promoting a healthier planet. Give it a try and experience the satisfaction of crafting your own eco-friendly cleaning products!