Laundry Detergent Mixture

Friends are asking...so here it is!  The "recipe" and a couple of ideas.  I have been mixing my own detergent cocktail for several months now, and it works really well.  Why bother? I do LOTS of laundry, at least in my opinion.  Multiple loads a day.  This is an effective, easy way to save considerable money.  I'll warn you, this is just one gal's ratio.  If this one doesn't knock your socks off, surf the web for others.  Do what works for YOU.You can find all of these items on the laundry isle.  While they're not difficult to find, you may not see them in every store. 

Measure and pour into a container:

one part Borax
one part Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (NOT the same as baking soda)
one part of your favorite powder laundry detergent
Mix powder until thoroughly blended.

For washing, follow your laundry labels for water temp.  Start the water, pour in 2 tablespoons of the mixture, let a little more water run, throw in your washables.

Fun Variation:  You can substitute shavings of your favorite bar soap in place of powder laundry detergent.

GIFT IDEA:  If you know someone has a favorite soap, use it to customize some laundry detergent for them.  You could add a label, like "Susan's Luxe Lavender Laundry," or "Hero Wash" for the guys (being sure the scent and container have masculine appeal).  Put the mixture in an attractive container with washing instructions.  You might try placing a plastic bag inside a nice basket and fill with the detergent mixture.  Then, tie the bag with ribbon at the top, adding a little scoop to the bow.  While you're at it, put your own mixture in a cute container.  You're worth it, too!

Troubleshooting:  For added stain fighting, add some oxygen cleaning product to your mix.  If your water is too cold to dissolve powder, start the load with hot water while you pour in the detergent mixture.  Once it dissolves, switch it over to cold if that is the preferred setting.

Hope this works as well for your family as it does for mine.  Blessings!