How to Make DIY Laundry Gel (Cheap & Non-Toxic)
If you’re looking for a DIY laundry gel detergent that is cheap, non-toxic, and actually works, this simple recipe will completely change the way you do laundry.
I’ve tested many homemade cleaners, and honestly, some don’t live up to the hype. But this one delivers: it’s affordable, effective, and—thanks to essential oils—smells fresh without synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals.
If you want clean laundry, fewer chemicals, and a simple routine, this recipe is a solid upgrade and only requires a few basic natural ingredients.
This post may contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Laundry Gel Recipe
This isn’t just another DIY version of make your own laundry detergent—it’s one you’ll actually keep using.
- It saves money fast – You’ll notice the difference within weeks. A single batch costs a fraction of what your store-bought brand costs.
- It’s non-toxic and customizable – You control every ingredient—including the scent.
- It smells naturally fresh – With essential oils, your laundry smells clean without artificial fragrances.
- It’s quick to make – From start to finish, about 15 minutes.
- A small amount goes a long way – Because you only need 1 tablespoon per load, one jar of this laundry gel will last through many washes, making each batch very efficient.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 1-gallon glass jar with lid
- Rotary or box cheese grater
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon or stir stick
Homestead Tip:
This homemade detergent recipe is so easy to double. Use a two gallon glass jar with a lid. Grate a full bar of Zote soap, 2 cups of Borax, 2 cups of Washing soda and up to 80 drops of essential oil.
Useful Supplies for DIY Laundry Gel Detergent
Ingredients for this Gel Detergent Recipe
Each ingredient has a purpose, keeping the formula effective but uncomplicated. Together, these ingredients address odor at the source while keeping skin comfortable and supported.
- ½ bar grated Zote soap (bar of castile soap or a bar of fels naptha)
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup washing soda
- Hot water (fill to 1 inch below jar neck)
- 20 drops doTERRA Adaptiv essential oil
- 20 drops doTERRA Lemon essential oil
Note:
40 total drops of essential oil is a safe and effective amount for a 1-gallon batch.
It provides scent without being overpowering or irritating for most users
Need DoTERRA Products?
How to Make DIY Laundry Gel Detergent
This process comes together quickly, so it helps to prep everything first.
Step 1: Grate the Soap
Grate ½ bar of Zote soap into fine pieces so it dissolves easily.
Step 2: Add Hot Water
Fill your 1-gallon jar with hot water, leaving about 2 inches below the jar’s neck. Ensure you leave enough room to add the grated bar soap, washing soda, and borax.
Step 3: Dissolve the Soap + Add Essential Oils
Add the grated soap to the hot water and stir until mostly dissolved.
Once the soap has begun melting into the water, add your preferred essential oils, such as Adaptiv and Lemon.
- 20 drops doTERRA Adaptiv
- 20 drops doTERRA Lemon
Stir well to evenly distribute the oils.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate container:
- Combine 1 cup of borax.
- Combine 1 cup of washing soda.
Break up any lumps to make the mixture smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Stir Quickly
Add the powder mixture into the jar quickly, then stir immediately.
The detergent will gel quickly, so mix thoroughly right away.
Step 6: Let It Set
Allow the mixture to cool and fully thicken into a gel consistency.
Benefits of the Ingredients used in this DIY Detergent
Zote Soap
- Lifts dirt and oils from fabric
- Gentle on skin
- Provides the base cleaning power
Borax
- Boosts stain removal
- Eliminates odors
- Softens hard water
Washing Soda
Helps balance pH levels
Cuts grease and grime
Strengthens cleaning performance
Benefits of doTERRA Essential Oils in This Recipe
doTERRA Adaptiv
- Promotes a calm, balanced scent
- Helps reduce stress through aromatherapy
- Adds a soft, comforting fragrance to laundry
I like using this because it gives clothes a subtle “clean and cozy” smell—not overpowering.
doTERRA Lemon
- Naturally fresh and uplifting scent
- Known for its cleansing properties
- Helps cut through odors and adds brightness
This is what gives your laundry that crisp, fresh finish.
Essential Oil Substitution Chart
Want to customize your scent? Here are great alternatives you can swap in while keeping the same total drop count (around 40 drops per gallon). Add drops of your favorite essential oil or use the chart below for inspiration:
| Essential Oil | Scent Profile | Benefits | Suggested Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lavender | Soft, floral | Calming, great for bedding | Replace Adaptiv |
| Tea Tree | Clean, medicinal | Antibacterial, deodorizing | Replace Lemon or blend |
| Eucalyptus | Fresh, cooling | Odor-fighting, refreshing | Blend with Lemon |
| Peppermint | Crisp, minty | Energizing, deodorizing | Use lightly (10–15 drops) |
| Orange | Sweet citrus | Uplifting, fresh scent | Replace Lemon |
| Rosemary | Herbal, clean | Refreshing, helps with odors | Blend option |
Tip:
Keep total drops between 30–50 per gallon to avoid residue or overpowering scent.
How to Use DIY Laundry Gel Detergent
Less is more with this recipe. Recommended amounts to add to the washing machine.
- 1 tablespoon for regular loads
- 2 tablespoons for large loads
- Up to 3 tablespoons for heavily soiled clothes
- Stir before use if gel separates slightly
- Safe for a front loader, HE machine & high efficiency (use smaller amounts)
- Add directly to drum or detergent compartment
How to Store Your Homemade Laundry Detergent
- Keep sealed in an airtight container (preferably glass because of the essential oils)
- Store at room temperature
- Avoid extreme cold
Shelf Life
Lasts several months. If it thickens too much, add a bit of hot water and stir.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Are essential oils safe in laundry detergent?
Yes, if used in small amounts as in this recipe.
2. Can I skip the essential oils?
Absolutely. The detergent will still work just as well without them.
3. Will the scent stay on clothes?
Lightly. The scent is milder than commercial detergents.
4. Can I mix different essential oils together?
Yes—that’s one of the best parts. Just keep the total drop count within range.
5. Is this safe for sensitive skin?
Most people find it gentler than store-bought options, but test first if you’re sensitive.
Pin for Later
Special Tools (affiliate links): doTERRA oils | Rotary Cheese Grater | 1-Gallon Glass Jar | 2-Gallon Glass Jar |
Making your own DIY laundry gel detergent with essential oils is one of the easiest ways to save money, reduce toxins, and still get great results.
From my experience, the biggest win isn’t just the cost—it’s knowing exactly what’s in your detergent. And once you start customizing scents with essential oils, it becomes something you actually enjoy making.
If you try this recipe and love it, I would truly appreciate it if you could come back and give it 5 stars.
Lechyd Da, (means “Cheers to Good Health” in Welsh)
How to Make DIY Laundry Gel (Cheap & Non-Toxic)
Equipment
- 1-gallon glass jar with lid
- Cheese grater
- Measuring Cups
- Mixing spoon or stir stick
Ingredients
- ½ bar grated Zote soap bar of castile soap or a bar of fels naptha
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup washing soda
- Hot water
- 20 drop doTERRA Adaptiv essential oil
- 20 drops doTERRA Lemon essential oil
Instructions
Step 1: Grate the Soap
- Grate ½ bar of Zote soap into fine pieces so it dissolves easily.
Step 2: Add Hot Water
- Fill your 1-gallon jar with hot water, leaving about 2 inches below the jar’s neck. Ensure you leave enough room to add the grated bar soap, washing soda, and borax.
Step 3: Dissolve the Soap + Add Essential Oils
- Add the grated soap to the hot water and stir until mostly dissolved.
- Once the soap has begun melting into the water, add your preferred essential oils, such as Adaptiv and Lemon.
- 20 drops doTERRA Adaptiv
- 20 drops doTERRA Lemon
- Stir well to evenly distribute the oils.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate container:
- Combine 1 cup of borax.
- Combine 1 cup of washing soda.
- Break up any lumps to make the mixture smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Stir Quickly
- Add the powder mixture into the jar quickly, then stir immediately.
- The detergent will gel quickly, so mix thoroughly right away.
Step 6: Let It Set
- Allow the mixture to cool and fully thicken into a gel consistency.
Notes
Essential Oil Substitution Chart
Want to customize your scent? Here are great alternatives you can swap in while keeping the same total drop count (around 40 drops per gallon). Add drops of your favorite essential oil or use the chart below for inspiration:| Essential Oil | Scent Profile | Benefits | Suggested Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lavender | Soft, floral | Calming, great for bedding | Replace Adaptiv |
| Tea Tree | Clean, medicinal | Antibacterial, deodorizing | Replace Lemon or blend |
| Eucalyptus | Fresh, cooling | Odor-fighting, refreshing | Blend with Lemon |
| Peppermint | Crisp, minty | Energizing, deodorizing | Use lightly (10–15 drops) |
| Orange | Sweet citrus | Uplifting, fresh scent | Replace Lemon |
| Rosemary | Herbal, clean | Refreshing, helps with odors | Blend option |
