DIY Dishwasher Detergent That Actually Works!

Hey friends!

Today, I want to share a little adventure from my kitchen that has truly transformed my dishwashing routine. If you’re like me, always on the lookout for natural, cost-effective solutions, this DIY dishwasher detergent is a game-changer. Plus, with the growing interest in homemade cleaning products on platforms like Pinterest and Google, it’s clear that many of us are eager to embrace more sustainable living practices.

Why Go DIY with Dishwasher Detergent?

Making your own dishwasher detergent isn’t just about saving a few bucks (though that’s a nice perk!). It’s about knowing exactly what’s in the products you use daily. Commercial detergents often contain chemicals that can be harsh on both our health and the environment. By crafting your own, you:

Control the Ingredients: Ensure only safe, non-toxic components are cleaning your dishes.
Reduce Environmental Impact: Minimize the release of harmful substances into our waterways.
Save Money: Most DIY recipes cost a fraction of store-bought detergents.
Customize to Your Needs: Adjust the formula based on your water hardness or personal preferences.

Why I Love This Recipe (and Why You Will Too!)

While researching the best ingredients for DIY dishwasher detergent, I kept coming across the same complaints—cloudy glassware and dull-looking dishes. So many recipes seemed to work “okay,” but the results often left people less than thrilled. That’s where this recipe stands out!

By using citric acid to fight hard water deposits, kosher salt to soften the water, and a balance of washing soda and baking soda to cut through grime, this formula leaves dishes sparkling clean without that frustrating film. And let’s not forget the optional lemon essential oil—not only does it add a fresh scent, but it also gives your detergent that extra grease-fighting power.

I’ve tested this recipe over and over (trust me, my family does A LOT of dishes), and it consistently delivers shiny glasses, spotless silverware, and no residue in sight. If you’ve been let down by other DIY detergent recipes, this is the one you’ll want to try.

The Magic Behind the Ingredients

Let’s break down why each ingredient plays a crucial role in this detergent:

Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate): A natural cleaner that cuts through grease and grime, neutralizes odors, and enhances the cleaning power of the detergent.
Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate): Gentle yet effective, it helps to scrub away residue and acts as a deodorizer, leaving your dishes smelling fresh.
Citric Acid: This is the unsung hero, especially if you have hard water. It combats mineral deposits, prevents water spots, and ensures your glassware comes out sparkling.
Kosher Salt: Acts as a scrubbing agent and helps to soften hard water, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the detergent.
Lemon Essential Oil (Optional): Not only does it add a refreshing scent, but lemon oil also has natural antibacterial properties and aids in cutting through grease.

Marla Kay’s DIY Dishwasher Detergent Recipe

*Click Ingredients to Shop my Amazon Favorites! (I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.)

Ingredients:

1 cup washing soda (PURE ORIGINAL INGREDIENTS Natural Washing Soda)
1 cup baking soda (Pure Original Ingredients Baking Soda)
½ cup citric acid (Pure Original Ingredients Citric Acid)
½ cup kosher salt (Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt)
20-30 drops of lemon essential oil (optional) (Plant Therapy USDA Organic Essential Oil)

Instructions:

Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine the washing soda, baking soda, citric acid, and kosher salt. If you’re adding lemon essential oil, drop it in and stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Store Properly: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container to keep moisture out. A mason jar or a recycled detergent box works perfectly.
Use: For each load, scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the detergent into your dishwasher’s detergent compartment.

Pro Tip: To prevent any residue or spots, fill your dishwasher’s rinse aid compartment with white vinegar. It’s a natural and effective rinse agent that pairs beautifully with this DIY detergent.

How Many Wash Cycles Will This Recipe Cover?

This recipe makes approximately 2 ½ cups of detergent. Since you’ll use 1-2 tablespoons per load, you can expect it to last for 20-40 wash cycles, depending on the amount used per load and the size of your dishwasher. For my family of six, this typically lasts us about 2-3 weeks!

Storage and Shelf Life

When stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, this detergent can last up to six months. However, with regular dishwashing, you’ll likely find yourself whipping up a new batch well before then!

A Little Disclaimer

While this recipe has worked wonders for me, results can vary based on water hardness and dishwasher models. It’s always a good idea to monitor your dishes and adjust the formula if needed.

Handy Amazon Finds (Full Round-Up)

For easy shopping, here’s everything in one place:

Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you purchase through the links provided, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Rest assured, I only recommend products I trust and use myself.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on the DIY route for your dishwasher detergent is not only fulfilling but also a step towards a more sustainable and health-conscious lifestyle. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about knowing your dishes are clean and sparkling without the help of harsh chemicals.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it works for you! Happy dishwashing!

Check out my DIY Laundry Detergent Recipe Here.

XO Marla Kay

Discover more from Everyday Marla Kay

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.