Firstly, I did a trip to Bunnings while out and about the other day, and got Borax and big bucket to make it in. My daughter-in-law has been saving 3 litre empty milk bottles for me to put it in. She will get 2/3's of this batch, as with two small children, their washing out weighs mine many times over.
I gathered up my supplies, opened Rhonda's 'down to earth a guide to simple living' book, pg 124 and started. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy this detergent is to make. As you can see, I used "pure" yellow soap and grated it. Using soap flakes would be easier, not that grating soap is difficult - very important to remember to wash the grater well afterwards, I don't think the kids would like soapy tasting cheese, although it could be funny to watch the expressions on their faces. The soap did look like grated cheese.
I measured out 1.5 litres of water, added the grated soap (1 cup) and heated until dissolved, then added the borax and washing soda, 1/2 cup of each and stirred until it was slightly thick and nearly boiling. I let it sit to cool for a while, stirring occasionally then added it to the bucket which I had already put a couple of litres of cold water into. I topped the bucket up to the 10 litre mark and stirred, and stirred and stirred. I didn't want the mixture separating, and it didn't. Once completely cool, I bottled, wrote on the bottles and that was that. Another chore ticked off my list. Next time I make it, I think I'll add some eucalyptus oil to the mix, as I do love the fresh smell it gives to the laundry.
I’ve been making Rhonda’s laundry liquid for quite a while now and haven’t looked back. I always make sure Mum and Dad are stocked up too so they don’t have to purchase it. It works well and I’m sure better for the machine too.
ReplyDeleteKylie
We have been using this recipe for about 4 years now and in a family with 6 ladies I ahve had zero complaints. every now and again I use a cap full of expensive smelling laundry liquid (Dynamo) to 2 litres of home made liquid for linen to make it smell great. For greasy laundry I add 1/3 cup of dish washing detergent to the 10 litre batch too - works great.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mr Home Maker, I think I'll add the dish detergent next time, the granddaughters clothes are always filthy and stained - the little one is crawling everywhere, outside and in and her 'crawlers' do not come clean. The food stains down the front of their shirts has to be seen to be believed. Cheers, Lyndie
DeleteI haven't made it yet, but it's on my list and you have given me the inspiration to just get in and get it done!
ReplyDelete