I still don’t know where I found this recipe. It feels like something was dug up from the internet archives from 10 years ago. At that time, environmentally friendly dishwashing detergent was almost a myth on grocery store shelves. Even if you find one, it will cost the equivalent of a small mortgage.
I can only be as green as my bank account allows. In some cases, you may have to buy expensive biodegradable sponges. It can also mean mixing chemicals in mason jars because the price per load is reasonable.
Most people know how to mix homemade laundry detergent. It’s a rite of passage for DIY enthusiasts. Very few people actually know how to use a dishwasher.
The fat burning power here is real. However, the secret weapon isn’t in the powder. Located in the rinse aid compartment. Fill the container with distilled white vinegar. If you use vinegar, the film will come off. Your dishes come out shiny. They are grease-free. It is also gentle on vintage glass and antique ceramics, which can become cloudy over time due to harsh chemicals.
Then there’s the math. This recipe costs less than a penny each time. Only 50 cents for 50 loads. It’s not just about saving. It’s borderline suspicious.
The science behind peeling
You need 4 main ingredients. Don’t skip any of them. Everyone has a job.
Washing Soda
This is not baking soda. It is sodium carbonate. It is a natural substance obtained from salt and limestone. It has been around forever because it works. It cuts through grease on almost anything. Arm and Hammer is sold in the US. If your local grocery store doesn’t have it in stock, Amazon does. It is also used in many other home cleaning projects.
borax
Borax occurs naturally on Earth. It can be mined or created in a research lab. Brands like Borateem are sold near the laundry aisle. Note that it is toxic in high concentrations. Keep out of reach of children. It’s also a harsh substance, so if you’re sensitive, wear gloves.
Kosher Salt
I use kosher salt. It’s clean. The crystals are bigger. I cook with it because it has a cleaner taste. The recipe specifically calls for it. I have no idea why it’s there. It can help increase the hardness of the water or it can simply adds bulk. It doesn’t hurt.
citric acid
You can buy food grade citric acid. Fruit Fresh is a common brand. Alternatively, you can use unsweetened lemonade packs. The powder is what matters. Provides the acidity needed to dissolve minerals.
Recipe
The ratios are simple.
- 1 cup Washing soda
- 1 cup borax
- 1/2 cup of salt
- 1/2 cup citric acid
Mix them together. Store in an airtight mason jar. Moisture is your enemy. If it clumps, you’ve failed.
Use 1 tablespoon per load. that’s it.
Add vinegar to the rinse dispenser. This combination removes oil and prevents spots. Better than expensive branded pods. And it costs a penny too.
Why pay $0.25 every time you can pay $0.01? The science holds up. The grease goes away. The shine is still there. Your wallet is still full.
Start with small batches. Test with a small load. See if your dishwasher likes it. Some machines are very sensitive. Others thrive on the simplicity. Either way, you save money. You also avoid plastic waste in the process.
It’s not perfect. Gotta measure. Must be mixed. but
