How to Make DIY Laundry Gel (Cheap & Non-Toxic)
This easy DIY laundry gel detergent is made with Zote soap, borax, and washing soda, plus essential oils for a fresh scent. A budget-friendly, non-toxic alternative that cleans effectively with just 1 tablespoon per load.
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 |
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
