Are you tired of reaching for that bottle of dishwasher detergent, only to wonder about the harsh chemicals hidden inside? Or perhaps you’re simply looking for a way to save some money while still getting sparkling clean dishes. What if you could achieve both – a sparkling clean kitchen and peace of mind? That’s where DIY dishwasher detergent comes in! But, many homemade recipes rely on washing soda, an ingredient that can sometimes cause skin irritation or leave a residue. This article will guide you through a simple, safe, and effective DIY dishwasher detergent recipe that doesn’t require washing soda, along with tips for optimal performance and troubleshooting, giving you cleaner dishes and a cleaner conscience.
Why Washing Soda Alternatives?
Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate, is a common ingredient in many homemade cleaning recipes, prized for its water-softening and degreasing properties. It’s a powerful cleaner, that’s for sure. But, while effective, washing soda isn’t for everyone. Some individuals experience skin irritation upon contact, particularly those with sensitive skin. This can manifest as redness, itching, or even a mild rash. For these individuals, finding an alternative is crucial.
Beyond skin sensitivity, some dishwashers, particularly older models or those with certain plumbing setups, might struggle to completely rinse away washing soda. This can lead to a white, powdery residue on your dishes, which is not only unsightly but can also affect the taste of your food. While this isn’t usually a health hazard, it’s certainly an inconvenience and a testament to why a washing soda alternative may be desired.
Finally, washing soda is highly alkaline, which means it has a high pH level. While this is what makes it an effective cleaner, it can also react with certain materials, such as aluminum. This isn’t a major concern in most dishwashers, but it’s something to be aware of, especially if you have vintage or delicate aluminum cookware. Thankfully, you can still create a powerful dishwasher detergent without the worry!
The DIY Dishwasher Detergent Recipe (Washing Soda-Free)
This recipe relies on a combination of readily available ingredients to create a detergent that’s tough on grease and grime, yet gentle on your skin and your dishwasher. Get ready to make your own washing soda alternative!
Ingredients:
One cup of Borax (sodium borate)
One-half cup of citric acid
One-half cup of kosher salt (or coarse salt)
Optional: Fifteen to twenty drops of your favorite essential oil (lemon, orange, or grapefruit work well)
Instructions:
First, grab a large glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Avoid using metal containers, as they can react with the ingredients over time.
Next, carefully measure out the Borax and pour it into the container.
Now, add the citric acid and kosher salt.
If you’re using essential oils, add them to the container now.
Close the lid tightly and shake the container vigorously for several minutes to ensure that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This is important to ensure even distribution of the cleaning power.
That’s it! Your DIY dishwasher detergent is ready to use.
Recipe Notes:
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role. Borax acts as a powerful cleaning agent, helping to remove grease and stains. It also has water-softening properties, which can improve the effectiveness of the detergent. Citric acid is a natural rinsing agent, helping to prevent spots and streaks on your dishes. It also helps to neutralize any alkaline residue from the Borax. Kosher salt, or any coarse salt, acts as a mild abrasive, helping to scrub away stuck-on food particles. The salt also contributes to preventing water spots.
The amount of detergent you need may vary depending on the hardness of your water. If you have hard water, you may need to use slightly more detergent. If you have soft water, you may need to use slightly less. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Store your homemade dishwasher detergent in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent it from clumping or becoming less effective. When stored properly, the detergent should last for at least six months to a year.
How to Use Your Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Using your homemade dishwasher detergent is just as easy as using store-bought detergent.
For a typical load of dishes, use about one to two tablespoons of detergent per load. Start with one tablespoon, and if your dishes aren’t coming out clean, increase the amount to two tablespoons. Don’t overdo it, as using too much detergent can leave a residue on your dishes.
Make sure you load your dishwasher properly to ensure that all the dishes are exposed to the detergent and water spray. Avoid overcrowding the dishwasher, and make sure that nothing is blocking the spray arms.
Consider using vinegar as a rinse aid. Vinegar is a natural rinsing agent that helps to remove any remaining detergent residue and prevent spots and streaks. Simply fill the rinse aid dispenser with white vinegar. This is especially important when not using washing soda, as washing soda itself helps to soften the water and prevent spotting.
If you have hard water, you may need to take extra steps to ensure that your dishes come out clean. You can pre-treat your dishes by soaking them in a solution of vinegar and water before loading them into the dishwasher. You can also add an extra tablespoon of citric acid to the detergent for hard water loads.
Troubleshooting & Tips
Even with the best recipe, you might occasionally encounter problems with your homemade dishwasher detergent. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Cloudy Dishes:
One of the most common complaints is cloudy dishes. This can be caused by several factors. Hard water is a major culprit. Too much detergent can also leave a cloudy film. Finally, not enough rinse aid can contribute to cloudiness. To solve this, try adjusting the amount of detergent you use. Make sure you’re using enough rinse aid (vinegar). If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener or using a dishwasher detergent specifically designed for hard water.
Residue on Dishes:
Another common problem is residue on dishes. This can be caused by using too much detergent, a clogged dishwasher filter, or not enough water pressure. To fix this, use less detergent. Clean the dishwasher filter regularly. Check your water pressure to make sure it’s adequate.
Smelly Dishwasher:
A smelly dishwasher can be caused by food particles and a buildup of grease and grime. To prevent this, scrape dishes thoroughly before loading them into the dishwasher. Run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar every month. Regularly clean the dishwasher filter and spray arms.
General Tips:
Run the hot water tap for a minute or two before starting the dishwasher. This will help to ensure that the water is hot enough to effectively clean the dishes.
Scrape off any large food particles from your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
Regularly clean your dishwasher to prevent buildup of grease and grime.
Safety Precautions
While this DIY dishwasher detergent is generally safe, it’s important to take a few precautions. Keep the detergent out of reach of children and pets. Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. If swallowed, seek medical attention immediately.
Borax, while a natural mineral, has been the subject of some debate regarding its safety. It’s important to be aware of these concerns and make an informed decision about whether or not to use it. Research the potential risks and benefits from reputable sources like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Consider wearing gloves when handling the detergent, especially if you have sensitive skin. Remember, prioritize safety first, and use common sense when dealing with any cleaning product, homemade or store-bought.
Conclusion
Making your own washing soda-free dishwasher detergent is a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to keep your dishes sparkling clean. By using a few readily available ingredients, you can create a detergent that’s tough on grease and grime, yet gentle on your skin and your dishwasher. Ditching washing soda doesn’t mean ditching clean dishes!
Take a moment to consider the impact of your choices. Switching to a homemade, washing soda-free option not only saves you money but also reduces your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. It’s a small change that can make a big difference for your health and the environment.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try! Experiment with different essential oils to find your favorite scent. Adjust the amount of detergent you use to find what works best for your dishwasher and water hardness. The satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s going into your dishwasher and onto your dishes is well worth the effort.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with this recipe! Leave a comment below and share your tips and tricks for making your own washing soda alternative dishwasher detergent. Happy cleaning!
