How to Make Your Own Cleaners

Do you ever wonder what is in those cleansers that you buy at the store? More importantly, do you ever wonder what is in them to make them so expensive yet not very good in the cleaning department?

Did you know that you have most of the same items that are in commercial cleansers right in your very own home? And they don't cost as much! So why not attempt to be both economical and 'green' minded by making your own. After all, if you can't pronounce the names for those chemicals they can't exactly be good for either you or the environment.

Laundry Detergents. First, let's start off with laundry detergent. An average person can spend up to $600 a year in the stuff. So why not cut the costs with a fewer cheaper versions. The main ingredient is Castile or Fels Naptha Bar Soap. One bar can make up to 5 gallons of laundry detergent.

#1

1C grated Fels Naptha Soap(found in grocery stores)

1/2C washing soda (also found in grocery stores)

1/2C Borax

2T glycerin

2C water

Mix the first 3 ingredients and then add glycerin and water. Use ½-3/4C per large load. Best in cold and warm water

#2

5 gallon bucket

water

1 bar Fels Naptha or Castile soap, grated

1C washing soap

4-1/2 gallons hot water

Place grated soap in a small saucepan and cover with water. Heat on low until dissolved. Fill the bucket with hot water and add soap. As it cools, it will thicken. Use 1-2C per large load.

#3-Powdered Version

1C grated Fels Naptha or Castile soap

1/2C washing soda

1/2C Borax

Light load=1T Heavy/soiled load=2T

Laundry Softener.

2C white vinegar

2C baking soda

4C water

Combine slowly and carefully over sink. The baking soda and vinegar will fizz. Pour into a plastic bottle, cover and shake. You might want to re-use that softener bottle.

Use 1/4C in final rinse or in a "Downy" ball.

Stain Remover.

#1

1/2C ammonia

1/2C white vinegar

2T liquid laundry detergent (use homemade)

2 qts water

Mix well and store in spray bottle

#2

1/4C borax or washing soda

2C cold water

Sponger on and let dry or soak fabric in Borax mixture before washing in soap and cold water.

#3-For heavily stained clothing

*Only for white cotton, nylon and polyester

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