Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
I hate purchasing dishwasher detergent about as much as I hate purchasing laundry detergent. It is every bit as expensive and you have those empty bottles to throw into the landfill. So what did I do? I found a method for homemade dishwasher detergent.
Dishwasher soap is easy to make, and cost effective. I mix up a batch in an empty canister, and pour it in the dishwasher as needed.
Mix and use per dishwasher load:
- 1 Tablespoon Borax
- 1 Tablespoon Baking soda
OR
- Equal parts Borax & Baking Soda
- Add 2 Tablespoons per load.
If you want to ensure a super shine on the dishes put vinegar in the jet dry spot. (Plus if you use Apple Cider Vinegar your house smells so good afterward.)
Tips and Tricks:
If you have hard water increase the proportion of the baking soda (note: Use baking soda not washing soda. Washing soda leaves spots and does not clean the dishes as well. Please do not think that because it does not clean dishes as well that it works better in clothes too. that is not the case. Washing soda for clothes, baking soda for dishes.)
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Okay, question. I live on a mountain with no running water, so no dishwasher. Would this stuff work with just hand washing also? Also, I tried putting vinegar into my wash water once, and it sort of made clumps of soft, greasy stuff(yeah, I know. Big technical term). Thanks
Yes it works with hand washing the dishes as well. Be aware that it does not suds up like store purchased soap, but it still works great.
You are correct, about the vinegar, it loosens dirt and grime from the dishes and then brings them all together. I prefer to use the vinegar in the rinse water after I wash. It makes the dishes not have water spots and if any of the greasy wash water remains it cuts it right off.
If you put it in the wash water then when you pull the plug make sure their is a strainer to catch those clump to either compost or just throw away.
I love your site! We have super hard water so we really need some detergent when we clean. I use 1/2 store-bought dishwashing powder, 1/4 borax and 1/4 baking soda. Works great for us.
Heidi