Organic Laundry Detergent

I have been introduced to making my own laundry detergent from my friend Jenise. It is even organic too, if you are yuppie like that. I didn't realize how easy it was and it looked like a fun project. Most of the ingredients were found at Publix, but I had to go to Whole Foods for Dr. Bronner's soap, or you can order it online but it isn't really cheaper.

1 bar Dr. Bronner's castile bar soap - finely grated (or you can just chop it up with a knife into small pieces like I did. Jenise's favorites were peppermint and lavender, so that is what I bought as well.) Cost: $4.19 per bar, the most expensive part

1/2 cup Washing Soda Cost: $2.19 for the box

1/2 cup Borax Cost: $3.99 for the box

1/4-1/2 cup Baking Soda Cost $.69 for a small box

In a large pot, heat 3 pints of water. Add the grated bar soap and stir until melted. Then add the washing soda, baking soda, and borax. Stir until powder is dissolved, then remove from heat. This makes your whole house smell so fresh and so clean.

In a 2 gallon clean pail, pour 1 quart of hot water and add the heated soap mixture. Top pail with cold water and stir well.

You can also add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil.

Use 1/2-1 cup per load, shaking or stirring soap before each use (it will gel a little).

You can buy jars or containers and package this up very nicely to give as gifts. Great idea for the person who is everything or if you don't know what to get someone. Who doesn't use laundry detergent?