How to Make Eco-Friendly Homemade Laundry Soap: Citric Acid & Castile Soap Recipes That Really Work
- Mark Yates
- May 23
- 4 min read
Updated: 13 hours ago
Looking for a safer, cheaper, and more sustainable way to wash your clothes? Switching to homemade laundry soap is one of the easiest and most impactful changes you can make for a healthier home and planet. This DIY laundry guide features two top-performing natural recipes—one with citric acid for powder-based cleaning and another using castile soap for a liquid detergent alternative.
Why Choose Homemade Laundry Detergent?
Homemade laundry detergent has surged in popularity as people seek alternatives to commercial detergents that often contain synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, and non-recyclable plastic packaging.
Benefits include:
Eco-Friendly – Reduces plastic waste and harmful chemicals entering the environment.
Cost-Effective – Costs just pennies per load, making it a budget-friendly household staple.
Non-Toxic & Gentle – Safe for sensitive skin and free from dyes and preservatives.
Customizable – Tailor the scent and strength to fit your needs using natural ingredients.
Key Natural Ingredients for DIY Laundry Soap
Before diving into the recipes, here are the must-have ingredients:
Citric Acid: A powerful natural water softener that boosts cleaning efficiency.
Castile Soap: A plant-based liquid soap known for its gentle yet effective cleansing.
Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate): Lifts grime and acts as a natural laundry booster.
Baking Soda: Neutralizes odors and softens fabric.
Essential Oils: Add fragrance and optional antimicrobial benefits.
If you're having trouble locating some of these ingredients in stores, don’t worry—they're all available online. Here are links to recommended products:
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Recipe 1: Powdered Laundry Soap with Citric Acid
Best for: Hard water areas and high-efficiency (HE) machines.
Ingredients:
1 cup washing soda
½ cup baking soda
½ cup citric acid
¼ cup coarse sea salt (optional for stain lifting)
10–15 drops essential oil (lavender, lemon, or tea tree)
Instructions:
Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl and mix thoroughly.
Add essential oils and stir well.
Store in an airtight container.
Use 1–2 tablespoons per load directly in the drum.
Tips:
Use white vinegar in the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener.
Store in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping.
Recipe 2: Liquid Laundry Detergent with Castile Soap
Best for: Delicates, baby clothes, and general everyday laundry.
Ingredients:
1 cup liquid castile soap
½ cup washing soda
¼ cup baking soda
2 gallons water
15–20 drops essential oil (eucalyptus, peppermint, or orange)
Instructions:
Heat 1 gallon of water until warm (not boiling).
Stir in the washing soda and baking soda until dissolved.
Slowly add castile soap, then essential oils.
Pour into a container and add the second gallon of water.
Shake before use and add ¼–½ cup per load.
Tips:
Use distilled water to increase shelf life.
Pre-treat stains with a dab of this detergent before washing.
Benefits of Natural Laundry Soap
Using natural DIY laundry detergent offers more than just cleaning power:
Reduces skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Prevents chemical residue buildup on fabrics.
Extends the lifespan of your clothing.
Keeps your household safer—especially for children and pets.
Natural ingredients also work well with modern fabrics. Commercial products often contain optical brighteners that coat fabric fibers and can lead to faster breakdown, while homemade soap keeps fabrics breathable and durable.
Switching to natural laundry soap also contributes to a larger commitment to sustainability. By making your own, you support a lifestyle that prioritizes waste reduction, ingredient transparency, and environmental protection.
Customize Your Laundry Soap
Personalizing your detergent is easy. Here’s how:
Scents
Try different essential oil combinations:
Lavender + Eucalyptus: Soothing and spa-like.
Lemon + Peppermint: Clean and energizing.
Orange + Clove: Warm and grounding.
Strength
Need extra power for heavy-duty loads? Add more washing soda or mix in borax (optional) for additional boost.
Sustainable Laundry Tips to Pair with Homemade Soap
Making your own detergent is a big step, but these habits will take your eco-laundry game further:
Wash in Cold Water: Cuts energy use significantly.
Line Dry When Possible: Reduces energy usage and wear on fabrics.
Use a Front-Loading Machine: More efficient in both water and electricity.
Avoid Overloading: Ensures clothes get thoroughly cleaned.
Clean Your Washer Monthly: Especially important when using natural detergents. A rinse cycle with vinegar can help maintain machine performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade laundry soap in an HE washer?
Yes! These low-sudsing recipes are HE-friendly. Just use the appropriate amount per load.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Absolutely. Free from dyes and synthetic fragrances, it’s ideal for those with allergies. Omit essential oils if needed.
How should I store it?
Powder: Airtight container in a dry, cool spot.
Liquid: Bottles or jugs with sealed lids. Shake before use.
Can I use it for baby clothes?
Yes, especially the castile soap version. Just ensure essential oils used are baby-safe or skip them altogether.
Conclusion: A Cleaner Home and a Greener Planet
Making your own laundry soap with citric acid or castile soap is a simple yet impactful way to embrace sustainability. These recipes are easy to follow, customizable, and effective. With natural ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and essential oils, you can cut down on waste, save money, and keep your clothes fresh without relying on synthetic chemicals.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out on your eco-friendly journey, homemade laundry detergent is a great place to begin. It’s one of those small changes that add up to big results—for your home, your health, and the environment.
🛒 Bulk Ingredients for Your DIY Laundry Routine:
