Commercial detergents promise miracles, but they often only add a layer of unnecessary chemicals to your dishes – and down your drains. It’s time for a smart switch: homemade dishwasher detergent is an easy way to combine practicality with environmental protection. Your glasses will shine like they would in a fancy restaurant, without phosphates that pollute rivers and without artificial fragrances that remind you of a laboratory. With basic ingredients from your kitchen shelf, you can create something cheaper and more effective than those tablets that are advertised as cutting-edge technology – ironic, right?
The zero-waste trend is spreading across cities like good coffee, and making your own detergent is a simple win for your wallet and the environment. Commercial products are loaded with aggressive additives that promise shine but leave a mark – like a party guest who promises fun but then just causes chaos. Here are the reasons to make the change and an easy recipe to make it – homemade dishwasher detergent:
- No chemical cocktails: Say goodbye to phosphates, chlorine and enzymes that irritate the skin and damage the water. Your detergent will be as natural as a walk in the Provencal fields.
- Ecological bonus: The ingredients break down without harm – the fish in the rivers will silently thank you.
- Savings per square meter: The prescription costs a pittance compared to store-bought pills. If you buy in bulk, even better.
- Less plastic, more style: No more trash packaging; glass storage jars make you a modern alchemist.
- Personalization: Adjust it to your water hardness or add essential oils for the scent of a Mediterranean vacation.
You'll know exactly what goes into the machine – no hidden surprises from manufacturers.
@loyalfarms Stop wasting money on toxins #nontoxic #dishwashertabs #dishwasherdetergent #homemade #lowtoxhome #diy #makeyourown #penniesonthedollar
Key Ingredients: From Kitchen Cabinet to Cleaning Power
The recipes are based on four simple stars that can be found online or in specialty stores. They are versatile – also useful for the bathroom or laundry.
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- Baking soda (sodium hydrogen carbonate): A gentle abrasive that neutralizes grease and odors. Like a reliable friend who cleans up after a party.
- Washing soda (sodium carbonate): Stronger than baking soda; degreases and softens water. Not the same as baking soda, otherwise the machine will be disappointed.
- Citric acid: Against limescale, for a spot-free shine. Acts as a natural preservative.
- Salt (table salt or sea salt): Softens water and prevents limescale. Rough for better grip.
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Add essential oils, such as lemon or lavender – for the scent of Parisian perfume instead of industrial air freshener. For hard water, common in Slovenian cities, increase the citric acid.
A simple recipe for powdered detergent: fast and effective
A basic version, ready in a minute – like instant coffee.
Ingredients (for about 20 cycles): Homemade dishwasher detergent
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 cup of washing soda
- ¾ cup citric acid (for hard water)
- ½ cup salt
- 15 drops of essential oil (e.g. lemon for freshness)
Process:
- Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl – mix like a DJ to distribute evenly.
- Add the oils and stir to absorb the scent.
- Store in an airtight jar, away from moisture – citric acid does not like steam.
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per cycle, depending on soiling. One is enough for a lighter wash.
Tip: For residue, add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the rinse aid compartment – natural shine.
@healthylifestylebasics Homemade dishwasher tablets. They are simple. You will need: ▪️1 cup of Baking soda ▪️1/4 cup of Citric Acid ▪️1 tbsp of dishwashing soap, all natural if possible. #healthyliving #homemade # dishwashing tablet #doitathome
Tablet version: for those who love the compact form
Like making homemade candy, except they clean the dishes.
Process (from basic mixture): Homemade dishwasher detergent
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- Slowly add water from the spray bottle until the mixture comes together – don't overdo it, or it will explode like a volcano at school.
- Arrange in ice cube trays or silicone molds.
- Dry for 24 hours in a dry place.
- Store in a jar; one tablet per cycle. If they are too hard, crush them.
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Liquid version: for dispensers and quick solutions
For machines with a liquid drawer – shorter term, but simple.
Ingridients:
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ cup washing soda
- ½ cup citric acid
- 1 tablespoon natural liquid soap (sulfate-free)
- 10 drops of essential oil
Process:
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- Dissolve the dry ingredients in the water.
- Add soap and oils, mix.
- Cool and store in a bottle; shake before use. 1–2 tablespoons per cycle.
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Tricks for perfect success: from cleaning to storage
For best results, follow these tips:
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- Clean the machine regularly: Monthly empty cycle with baking soda and vinegar – a dishwasher spa.
- Rinsing with vinegar: White vinegar prevents stains and scale. Cheaper than wine, but just as French.
- Proper loading: Rinse the dishes and arrange them – water needs space.
- Storage: Dry mixes in a cool, dry place. If it hardens, crush it – no problem.
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Is homemade detergent really strong enough?
Homemade dishwasher detergent?! Yes, if you use it correctly. They are the basis of green products, without fillers. For greasy dishes, add prewash. In practice, it gives a shine without haze. For soft water, reduce salt; for hard water, add borax if you tolerate it - some people avoid it due to toxicity.
This recipe is a small step towards sustainability. Try it and share your experiences in the comments – maybe you find a new variation? The dish and the planet will thank you.
