I wanted to make my own laundry detergent for the longest, but I didn’t know what was involved, and I was worried that it would 1. not get my clothes clean or 2. irritate my skin. I was able to make a batch that did neither of those, and I expect it to last us through the end of the year!

I’ve seen several 3-ingredient recipes, but I’m not sure if they cut it, so here is the “juiced up” version. Please keep in mind that what is okay for my family’s skin might not be okay for yours, so use your discretion based on what you know about yourself and your little ones.

I found all of the ingredients I needed at Walmart. I got 2 bars of castile soap, a box of washing soda, baking soda, a box of borax, a container of OxiClean powder, and essential oils, which was right at $40 total. You can choose what essential oils you’d like, but I used lavender and tea tree. OxiClean comes in a few different formulas, so that’s also up to you.

The first and worst step is to grate the castile soap into little shavings. I broke my food processor trying to do it the “easy” way and ended up doing it by hand with a cheese grater. I suggest wearing a mask because this part creates a lot of dust, and it can easily be breathed in, which is not fun. You can cut the soap into smaller chunks before you grate it if you wish.

After you have your castile soap grated up, it is time to combine your other ingredients. This is best done in a doubled up garbage bag (you’ll see why). Dump the entire box of borax, OxiClean, and washing soda, along with 2 cups of baking soda. Then you can add the castile soap and whatever essential oils you’ve chosen. I used about 30 drops of fragrance, but use however much you see fit. Tie the bags and move them around for a couple minutes to mix the ingredients and break up any clumps.

The last step is to cut off the corner of your bags and empty the contents into a bucket. I used a 2 gallon bucket with a locking lid. When it’s all done and ready to go, you can use the scoop from the OxiClean to measure your powder.

I have been using this for over two months, and I cannot tell that I have taken any out of the bucket! It smells nice, and there is no difference in the feel of my laundry from using store bought detergent. If anyone knows of hacks for folding, please send them my way.