Category Archives: Thrifty Nifty

I do laundry a few times a week considering my husband works out most days of the week and I have a little boy who manages to get every outfit filthy. The amounts below will last between 9-12 months; definitely a huge money saver and all natural ingredients. I still use fabric softener because I love the smell of fresh clothes and let’s face it; the detergent itself is very natural that you can feel good about buying fabric softener throughout the year because you don’t have to buy detergent. I made my first batch when Cooper was first born. I remember sitting on the floor in the family room grating the soap while he slept peacefully in his swing. I ran out in June right before we moved. This was 11 months off one batch.

 

I have an HE washer and did research to make sure this was safe on the washer. It is absolutely safe. The biggest reason for HE is with front loaders most detergents get too sudsy and can ruin the pipes. This detergent is all natural and does not get sudsy. There is a liquid detergent you can make as well, but to be honest this one is cheaper and preserves well. I haven’t tried the liquid one yet…maybe next year when I run out. Will keep you posted if I do.

 

Laundry Detergent:

 

• 1 4lb Box of Borax
• 1 4lb Box Arm and Hammer Baking Soda
• Box of Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda
• 3 Bars Fels-Naptha Soap (found near the ingredients above in detergent isle)
• 2 small containers Oxy Clean (roughly 3.5lbs total)
• 1 Large Glass container with Lid*

 

Mix all ingredients in a large bucket or paper bag to help mix well. Shred the Fels-Naptha bars with a cheese grater or food processor and mix with remaining ingredients. Use 1-2 TBSP per load.

 

*This detergent is very mild yet cleans very well. Do not place in a plastic container. I made this mistake and had to throw it out because it became one solid brick.

I started making my dishwashing detergent not long after I began the laundry detergent. I found it to be way cheaper and it lasts significantly longer than store bought and you know what is in it. My dad has made the comment more than a few times that he doesn’t want me to turn in to a complete “hippy” since I make everything myself. I explained that being all natural and organic doesn’t have to put a label on me; it allows me to feel confident that I am eliminating as many chemicals as possible within reason. This idea is beginning to grow on him as he has seen the numerous ways I’ve began to save money and chemical additives. J

 

Ingredients:

• 1 4lb Borax
• 1 4lb Arm and Hammer Baking Soda
• 2 Cups Iodized Salt

 

Mix together and place in a glass jar. I got mine from Target and it looks like a cookie jar, probably because I love cookies. Do not place in a plastic container because it will become one solid brick, I made this mistake and due to the plastic container and lack of salt, I believe this combination was a poor choice.

 

I have Jet Dry in my dishwasher that helps make my dishes sparkly clean and shiny. If you do not have this added bonus, keep white vinegar near your detergent and add this as a shining agent. White vinegar is my friend when it comes to cleaning.