This recipe is from a Relief Society activity in my mom's ward. She raved about how well the detergent works, so I thought I'd give it a try.
Double this recipe to make 5 gallons.
1 whole bar of Ivory Soap or 1/3 bar Fels Naptha Soap
1/2 c. Borax Powder (found on the laundry isle, ie 20 mule team borax)
1/2 c. Arm and Hammer Washing Soda (I found this by the laundry detergents at my local grocery, but if you can't find it there try a hardware store like Lowe's or Home Depot)
Bucket
Water
Instructions:
1.) Grate bar soap into large sauce pan. Use a cheese grater or food processor. (I put my soap in my blender and once it was chopped up small I added 2 of the 6 cups from the next step and blended it together.)
2.) Add 6 cups hot water and heat on med. high on stove until the soap melts and dissolves.
3.) Add Borax and Washing Soda. Stir until dissolved.
4.) Pour 4 cups hot tap water into bucket.
5.) Add soap mix to bucket and stir together.
6.) Add another 22 cups of hot water and stir until combined.
7.) Let soap cool and set up for 12-24 hours.
Use 1/2 cup per load.
Tips: You can essential oils for fragrance. You can also add a bit more Borax or Washing Soda (about 3/4 cup) if you want more cleaning power.
This works with front load washers as it doesn't create a lot of suds. Use 2 tablespoons. Add detergent right in with clothes.
Rather than use a 5 gallon bucket, before it gels up, you can pour into gallon jugs.
