How to Make Dishwasher Detergent at Home

Homemade dishwasher detergent does the job just as well as brand-name soaps.

Environmentally responsible homeowners may worry about phosphates and other contaminating compounds in their dish detergent. Clean dishes are an imperative, but the soap does not have to be toxic to work. Making your own detergent at home will save you money and be safe for you and the watershed. It may not be as sudsy as a store-purchased brand, but homemade detergent cleans and shines dishes and glassware just as well.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Borax
• Distilled white vinegar

Instructions

1. Put 1 tbsp. baking soda in the detergent reservoir.

2. Put 1 tbsp. borax into the reservoir. No need to mix; the machine will do it for you.

3. Add distilled white vinegar to the rinse dispenser. This will ensure sparkling, spot-free glassware.

Tips & Warnings

• Premix the homemade detergent in a container and keep a tablespoon measure inside. Add 2 tbsp. of the mixture to your washer each load.

References

• Dollar Stretcher: Homemade Dishwasher Detergent