Homemade Dishwasher Detergent That’s Super Cheap & Crazy Effective

Why Make Your Own Dishwasher Detergent?

Most commercial dishwasher pods contain phosphates, dyes, and artificial fragrances that can harm your health and the environment. Not to mention, they cost more per load! With a few basic ingredients, you can get your dishes just as clean for pennies.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup Borax (or baking soda for a gentler version)
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1/2 cup citric acid (for sparkle and degreasing)
• 1/2 cup kosher salt (acts as a scouring agent)
• Optional: 20 drops lemon or orange essential oil

These can be found online or in the laundry/cleaning aisle at most stores.

3 DIY Recipes You’ll Love

1. Powder Detergent

Mix all ingredients in an airtight jar. Use 1 tbsp per load.

2. Tablet Version

Follow the powder recipe above, then spray lightly with water (until it sticks), press into an ice cube tray, and dry overnight. Store in a sealed container.

3. Liquid Version

Mix 1 cup of the powder recipe into 4 cups boiling water. Stir well and cool. Store in a glass jar and use 2 tbsp per load.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix dry ingredients first
2. Add oils (optional)
3. Store in airtight container
4. Use proper dosage (1 tbsp powder or 1 tablet or 2 tbsp liquid)

What It Cleans Best

• Glassware: comes out sparkling!
• Plastic containers: grease-free and fresh
• Pots and pans: cuts through grime

Troubleshooting Cloudy Dishes or Residue

Cloudy glasses? Try using white vinegar as a rinse aid. Still streaks? Check your water hardness and adjust salt/citric acid levels.

Adjusting for Hard vs Soft Water

• Hard water: Add more citric acid
• Soft water: Reduce salt and citric acid

Safety First: What NOT to Mix

Don’t mix vinegar directly into your powder mix — it will react and bubble away! Also avoid combining bleach with natural ingredients like vinegar or lemon.

How It Compares to Store-Bought

DIY detergent performs just as well without the mystery chemicals. Bonus: no artificial fragrances or plastics!

How Long It Lasts

• Powder: 3-4 months
• Tabs: 2 months (keep dry)
• Liquid: 1-2 months (shake before use)

Pet and Kid Safe?

Yes! But store securely and keep out of reach like any cleaning product. Avoid lemon oils around cats.

Readers Say: Does It Really Work?

“I’ll never go back to pods! My glasses have never looked better.” – Amanda

“I made the tab version and they work SO well, plus it was fun!” – Jake

What to Do With Leftover Ingredients

• Borax and washing soda: Use for laundry detergent
• Citric acid: Descale kettles and coffee machines
• Kosher salt: Use as a scrub for sinks and tubs

Final Thoughts: Sparkly Dishes, Happy You!

Making your own dishwasher detergent is not only fun, it’s empowering. You’ll love the savings, the sparkle, and the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Try it today!