Why I Don't make Homemade Laundry Soap Anymore

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I recently made a follow up video to this one. It answers questions and comments and gives several options with the homemade version, many of them I've gotten from the comments here on this video. You can see the video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHSxZqyklL2sZrc -Crystal

[@slickymartin5674]

Thanks

[@PhilAnderson299]

What if you only replace the soap with something else ?

[@phillipstroll7385]

Nope. The colors and whites seem dingy is because there is no bluing in homemade. Unless your machine doesn't have an agitator. Then yes, you need detergent. But machines with agitator bars are extremely expensive.

[@Liz-md7on]

I watched that video also. I found very helpful all the information. Thanks so much for the videos

[@Ms.Byrd68]

Appreciated the 'honesty' of this video. We keep talking about the OLD DAYS and how they did things back then but we FORGET that they (as you said) didn't have the MODERN conveniences available to them that we have today. Better find one of those old _Wash boards_ and properly store it just in case you ever need to 'break it out!' 😄

[@KimRapp-pp2pz]

I've been using the homemade soap for over 10 years in the same front loading machine and have not noticed any problems. The difference might be that in every load I also use peroxide in the bleach cycle and vinegar in the rinse cycle. Both are also very cheap products and the peroxide acts as a mild 'bleach' to keep things bright, and the vinegar removes any build-up and softens the clothes. I have read articles telling you not to use vinegar in the front loading machines -- though this was years after I'd already been doing it -- saying it would damage the seals on the door. But, I'd been doing so for so many years already that I think the damage to the seals others had was because they didn't leave the door open between uses. Just my opinion. Still using the same soap and the same machine.

[@annemariekrux3575]

Yes i can relate to it! And i will add that once in a month i do washing witout clothes, so only for the machine. And i have never a problem❤

[@brandylou9132]

How much peroxide? I personally feel it's gotten pretty pricey

[@suzannehartmann946]

@@annemariekrux3575 It is important to leave the door open to prevent mold mildew and bacteria formation. It allows the water to completely dry out. The rubber seals on uprights will rot no matter what there is such as thing as dry rot. But every appliance has an Achilles heel.

[@kaypittman8326]

Thanks for info! I'm going to start this!

[@MisstressMourtisha]

Vinegar damages vinyl that's all I can think with not using vinegar

[@ladyprepper4]

Oh my goodness! Hi Crystal!! I had no idea you had a KZbin channel! Way back when my kids were 2-3 (they are 20-21 now :-)) I began following your blog and bought all of your cookbooks. Your frugal, healthy recipes got me into grinding my own wheat, and got our family through the very rough recession in 2005-2009. Thank you! You don't know how your tips and recipes fed my family when we only had $25/week for groceries. I Love you.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you so much for sharing your story!! That's so encouraging to read 💖 It's wonderful to meet you 😊 2005 -2009 were some difficult years and I'm glad to know my tips and recipes helped you get through it all. Have a wonderful blessed day!! -Crystal😊

[@Angebaby1237]

This is so helpful!! Thank you!!!!!

[@joannabrown4238]

That sounds so much like me! I was following you Crystal when my two oldest children were littlies, now they are 20 and 21 and I went on to have another who is now 13!! I didn't realise you had a KZbin channel either until the other day when I found one of your recipes I had printed out years ago and looked you up, I'm so happy to have found you again!! Your advice and knowledge helped me so much over the years, what a blessing to be able to see and hear you now!! Xx

[@SS-kb8ns]

I always use white vinegar as a softener. It is very effective for washing off the soap scum.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

While I was using the homemade I always used white vinegar, but still had the problems of dingy whites and faded colors, towels that wouldn't absorb, etc... After I quit using the homemade those problems went away. I know it does help to a degree, but my experience was it didn't help over the long term (I used the homemade for over 3 years). -Crystal

[@worldview730]

Any vinegar smells not pleasant to me

[@shandadeardorff797]

@Crown Prince...I add a very small amount in my wash cycle...I have never noticed a vinegar smell on my fresh washed clothes...and they are nice and soft 😉

[@horse__power7891]

Vinegar harms silk and wool.

[@birgip.m.1236]

@@shandadeardorff797 How much do you add??

[@dgtlionbarger]

Usually these “here’s why I don’t…” videos are boring and uninteresting BUT you held my attention with your thorough explanation that anyone can understand.

[@thesanfranciscoseahorse473]

So in a nutshell, detergents are better for modern machines that soak clothes without friction scrubbing. But homemade soaps still have a place for people who might use a scrub boards or handwriting things, which could he quiet useful in emergency situations or places without electricity.

[@APRIlL86]

😂 yes!

[@lyndi9719]

I make my own because my husband is allergic to nearly all of the detergents in the store. I've been making it for years.

[@davidantonenko4446]

​@@lyndi9719 Watching videos on this stuff because our whole family is developing allergies to the store stuff! Super itchy!

[@veronicaseegmiller4396]

So it’s a bad idea to do the homemade stuff I’m trying to save money. We have six people in the house and I recently saw a video about homemade detergents

[@brandylou9132]

@@veronicaseegmiller4396 No, she just pointing out the differences, and outcomes of each choice

[@nancy5721]

A few months into using my homemade laundry soap my husband told me his clean clothes smelled. That was about 6 yrs ago. I researched the soap-detergent issue but there wasn't a lot of info as to why homemade was not good, only that it wasn't good. Thank you for providing me the "rest of the story".

[@edennis8578]

It matters enormously on how naturally soft your water is. For example, my sister lived in Tacoma, WA for 15 years. She never had soap scum or calcium build-up. She never needed a water softener. Then she moved to South Dakota, where the water is extremely hard. She tried to do without a softener, but after a month of the hard water problems, she installed one. It still isn't the same as having naturally soft water. When I would visit her in Tacoma, my skin cleared up and became super smooth, and my hair looked so shiny that it sparkled. There's just no comparison between naturally soft water and hard water.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I'm in the Pacific Northwest, Washington state.. I have soft water and I do have soap scum. I know it's no where near as bad as those with hard water. I agree there is no comparison between naturally soft water and hard water.

[@LaydeeLia]

@@HomemakingontheHomestead - could you not put a soap scum remover (ie. for shower walls) in a homemade laundry soap?

[@DingoTheDemon]

I live in Indiana and we also have extremely hard water, but I use an HE washing machine and use All Free and Clear and I've never had any issues with the laundry.

[@missionaries7575]

I’m from Tacoma born and raised. Now in Kentucky very hard water. I just made my first batch hoping for the best.

[@pjrehder7366]

I used to make homemade laundry soap and was thinking about starting again until I saw your video. Thank you! It makes so much sense now!

[@brimalvin]

I’ve never felt comfortable adding grated soap in my laundry machine so I looked for a recipe that didn’t include bar soap and borax. I’m so glad my hunch was right! This has been my go to recipe. I can’t take the credit, but it’s been working very well. I have a front load HE machine. I fill the bleach compartment with distilled vinegar with every wash. DIY Laundry Powder: Ingredients * 1/2 cup Epsom Salt * 1 1/2 cups Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda) * 1 1/2 cups Sodium Carbonate (washing soda) * 1/4 cup Sea Salt * 20-25 drops Essential Oils (optional) Instructions: Use 1-2 tablespoons per load (depending how dirty your laundry is). Fill bleach or fabric softer compartment with vinegar

[@marye7798]

Great, thanks!

[@heatherpoirier6351]

Oh love this recipe! Thank you soo much for sharing!!

[@robbertou]

thank you!

[@dgirl9743]

Thank you for sharing!

[@josephrice6807]

Pretty much what I use.

[@ThereseBowman]

I hated my HE washer. Clothes still felt dirty and looked dingy. I now am back to a washer with a agitator and deep water. Love having it back again. My clothes and towels immediately felt normal again.

[@doobalaba]

I will never go back to a front loader! The smell, especially towels, was horrible!

[@mariewalby3157]

same here!

[@CrestwoodRocks]

@@doobalaba I still use hard mount front loaders in laundromats. Their is now only one best top loader washers out in the world which is a Speed Queen TC series which still has the classic moving agitator. The big box stores like Lowes, Home Depot, Best Buy and Menards don't carry them. Sadly the Government has been setting mandates to use lesser water and lesser energy which seems to explain why their have been alot of HE front loader washers and HE top loaders washers out there.

[@Bee-Kind-Baker]

Hi! May I ask which washer you’re now using? I’ve found washers with agitators, but the water is still low. I’d love to get back to a normal level. I’m very tired of this HE . The capacity is huge, but very little water.

[@pkaboo7832]

I also hated HE! Actually I have never known a "family" (more than 3) that liked HE. It does not clean 'for real'. The only people that seemed okay with their HE washer were singletons. Being in charge of laundry and speaking with other persons in charge of their laundry, whenever we would have to do three or four pairs of jeans, they would never quite seem to get clean. (Stains or whatever) I finally learned a trick when my boys had reached about 17, 18. I was experiencing towels that wouldn't absorb and clothing that had what felt like residue, and the smells were awful! (The smell seemed gone in the first day or two, but then the stink would return within a few days of washing). I spoke with an old timer who said something in passing about "stripping". It sounded like a very concentrated effort, taking a lot of time, but at this point I was kind of desperate. What I would do is wait till I had a couple of pieces that need it (either because they stunk or they were stiff or there were residues or whatever, and I would put them in the bathtub with hot water, vinegar and soap and agitate that every few hours using a mop or broomstick handle. Generally leaving it about 24 hours or longer, going in and agitating my "soup" (of clothing in water) once or twice....man! It was a trade-off that I was willing to make! I found out that by soaking some pieces 24 hours, it would actually get rid of the stink and bring back the color (IF the color reduction was muted due to build up). One of the things that I had always hated about HE was that it never seemed like anything got clean in my book. I joked that it only took a cup of water to wash a load, but I could do better with a cup of water than the silly machine. "Stripping" clothing and towels has been a game changer for me! (PS: The first couple times it was amazing how after just a few hours of soaking, the water turned to the most disgusting dark shade! At this point, I would drain the tub, lightly "rinse" the clothes under the tap, and then go ahead and fill to just cover the clothing again. Let that continue to set for another 12 hours. After the 24-hour soak, I would squeeze the water out of the articles and then pop them in a rinse load in my HE. I really don't have to "strip" much anymore. I still do this for bath and kitchen towels; (separately of course) It is extra work, but clean absorbent and functional is my goal! Now what I will do is if I get a kitchen hand towel that has just encountered some sort of liquid or essence, I have a little plastic trash can that I bought from the dollar store that I pour hot water and a drop of laundry soap or vinegar (whatever I think I should be cleaning with at the moment), and just let it start soaking from get go. By the next day, I throw that in with whatever loads I got going on and it's like a pre soak that doesn't take much water.

[@ShortStoriesbytheSea]

When you make your own it is important to use washing soda and baking soda they are 2 minerals that do different things to break up the dirt composition it changes the alkalinity of the water to disperse stains and soil and it freshens the laundry I like making my own laundry soap my whites are very white and my laundry smells amazing

[@anjanean]

Do you mind sharing your laundry soap recipe for your white clothing? Thanks in advance!

[@ownandbehappy]

I would love to know as well if you ever see this😊

[@hortondlfn1994]

Ditto! Would appreciate your laundry soap recipe!

[@angeliamessex4340]

Where may I find the recipe you use, I am tired of paying and fighting with the store detergent and softener and ready to use more thoughtful and organic ingredients!

[@darlenecareri4520]

How long have you been making your own with no issues?

[@JohnTheRevelator11]

I almost bought a ton of stuff to start making my own soap. You surely saved my washer. Thank you dear!

[@ThankfulSpirit]

Same here! Thank you @HomemakingOnTheHomestead

[@snowstrobe]

I just did... d-oh!

[@cathyann6835]

I loved my homemade at first and thought my clothes looked cleaner. After a couple years, my clothes didn't look as clean. I started using half the amount of homemade and half amount of commercial. Then I heard you need the detergent to keep your plumbing from clogging. So far I've been using half and half and haven't noticed a problem. But now with these water saving machines they have, I noticed powdered detergent wasn't completely dissolving in some loads like towels and blankets. So I use a gel detergent tablet only in those loads.

[@stormyweathersby8623]

Thank you so much for this video. I have been making my own laundry soap (Powder and liquid) for about 5 years now. I noticed in the last year my clothes after washing them would have a greasy or odd smell. We live on a farm and both work jobs we get dirty in. I have added and taken away so many things I think in the last year I have tried all I could but last week I bought my first liquid laundry detergent in 5 years. What a wonderful difference. I also make my own soap and cleaning supplies which I love but I thought I was not doing something right, thank you so much for clearing this up. I only wash with cold water so, I now know why and will bite the bullet and have brighter, and better smelling clothes once again. Your video explained everything.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome, I'm glad the video was helpful for you! -Crystal :)

[@marshadavis8670]

I've been making my own laundry soap for over 10 years and I still love it. I use washing soda, borax and grated Ivory soap. I also add white vinegar to every load, at the start of the wash cycle with the soap. I added the vinegar for deodorizing and to kill germs.

[@michelelijewski7221]

Can you please share your recipe thanks

[@lindahall8728]

Can you please share recipe.? Please and thank you

[@pln8503]

One woman who actually has wanted to research. Thank you fur all this unbiased info.😊

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I'm glad you found it helpful! -Crystal :)

[@adrienneburroughs5777]

I made your laundry soap when all my children were at home. I also noticed the dinginess after awhile. My husband still says its the best hand cleaner ever! Every time he worked on something greasy it got his hands perfectly clean! With just the two of us i no longer need big batches of laundry soap. Great memories!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I remember someone saying their husband used it as a hand cleaner! That's too funny.. :D

[@granjmy]

@@HomemakingontheHomestead You should market it as the best hand cleaner you'll ever use. :) See if you sell some. Actually, do a side by side comparison with Lava. Film it of course, just in case.

[@BringBackCyParkVendingMachines]

As a biology major (who dabbles in chemistry) this video was amazing! This “soap knowledge” also applies to hand washing as well. Soap is caustic, which means it “needs friction” (as you have mentioned) that’s why it’s so effective in removing germs. Very appropriate for today’s climate (if you know what I mean). I was planning on making my own detergent (UGH I already made it) but decided to stop and question “hmm....maybe I shouldn’t put this in an HE washer” decided to stop by this video, and I have to say that I’m impressed and your voice is calming haha. Very knowledgeable! Thank you for spreading your experience!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you so much for your comment! I really appreciate it. -Crystal :)

[@ravenwilson7979]

What about if you use "Washin’ Jax Laundry Agitators" haha that sounds like an ad. Anyways, I was having issues with my frontloader HE cleaning my clothes and when I got the jaxs it really helped. I wonder if that would give enough friction to clean the clothes. But then again I suppose the laundry machine would still eventually get clogged with the soap.

[@malenejensen2995]

Sorry for my clumsy English, but I have a question, something I wondered about after reading your comment. When soap needs friction to lift the dirt and detergent does not, can it then be said that scrubbing with a detergent on some stubborn dirt, really doesn't make a big difference, compared with just applying the detergent and let it sit for a while?

[@dinarusso3320]

You can use the home made to soak stains, etc, so you don't have to waste it, also for cleaning around the house.

[@myrthasmascary4086]

I will use homemade laundry soap for hand wash only bcuz i don't know what it can do washer. maybe bcuz it was cuz of the lard

[@meman6964]

Well done Clear explanation, no judgement. Soaking, even in front loader, gives water time to remove most dirt

[@Katy809RD]

I came across your video by trying to search for a “homemade soap” for dark clothes. I think the same thing that causes the build up from bar soap on the shower is the same thing that causes all the issues that you mentioned. That’s why, in my country, even though we use bar soap with detergent for white clothing. No one washes dark colors with it because it leaves a whiteish film/top on the clothing.

[@worldview730]

Accumulates in your drain also

[@tamikaford7439]

Your video saved me from starting to make my own laundry soap because I was seriously about to get into it. Thank you so much!!

[@rubygreenjeans5641]

Same!

[@nrs3772]

Same here!!

[@MsLiberty101]

I dont think you need to stop but from I've gathered just add a little dawn to it, it still will save you a 'load' of money.

[@furbaby7116]

I was going to make my own too. Thank God I watched this awesome video.

[@Mirakia4]

Same❗️

[@Jennifr1966]

What I've done for years is make the laundry detergent as a "laundry booster." I would use a tablespoon or so of the homemade stuff and then half a lid of commercial detergent. I haven't had any trouble and it saves me money. I usually buy Tide from CVS using their ECB deals.

[@cathyann6835]

That's what I do. I use half homemade amount and half commercial amount.

[@esterwyman]

Same here 👍🏻

[@IrishAnnie]

Thank you for this info. That makes total sense. I was thinking of making my own soap to use in my HE machine. You saved me money. Also note, dryer sheets coat towels and makes them less absorbent.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Yes, dryer sheets will cause problems with absorbency over time. I made a follow up video on this with other ideas and options, many of them from the comments here on this post. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHSxZqyklL2sZrc

[@susanabushaban2719]

2 cups of the powder detergent of your choice 1 cup of borax 1 cup super washing soda 1 cup of baking soda 1 cup of sun oxi clean 1 or 2 cups of purex crystals your smell preference Mix all up and no issues at all because using actual laundry powder with the added enhancers still saves tons of money and clothing comes out super clean smells great I also knew about the bar soap causing issues that’s why I did box detergent with the other ingredients You can double the batch triple what ever you need or want just follow measurements ​@@HomemakingontheHomestead

[@Jmeecy]

Thank you for posting this video. This was super helpful. I was just about to deal with into making my own soap. Then I came across your video. Thank you for not being negative to those who have decided to make their own soaps but instead you simply shed light on a facts and information, this allows people to decide for themselves and beat well informed about their decision without being critical to one's choice.

[@tammyjmaeff3443]

Yes!! I felt the exact same ❤️

[@ostrobogulous1]

If only the rest of the world could approach ALL issues like that. The world would be a better place.

[@sharoncontini3284]

I use detergent at only 25% the listed quantity. Then I add baking soda to soften and boost the detergent. Can also add washing soda for whitening if desired. Cheap, easy and effective.

[@bigsexyTDI]

This. People use way too much soap. 25 - 50% of the recommended amount is plenty.

[@gailmiller6333]

Sharon Contini I do the exact thing in regards to amount of detergent and the addition of baking soda. You’re 100% correct, it’s very very cost effective, my detergent last twice as long, easy and gets my laundry sparkling clean with any and all doors removed.

[@dinarusso3320]

That's what I do, and still have a little bit of suds in rinse cycle, so that's definitely enough detergent.

[@ColoringNanna913]

I go through a lot of baking soda with my Ecos detergent and love it. I do use hot water to begin the wash to dissolve properly. Just a bit if it's a warm wash. I have to admit I do a lot of hot wash. I do believe it dissolves my homemade powder better and never had clogged pipes. I also use a coconut soap (Kirks) .

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

As I mentioned in my previous replies.. going back and forth between homemade and commercial detergent would prevent the issues and the soap scum build up. I used homemade ONLY for 3 years.. it took time for the problems to develop.

[@Keepfaith1970]

I had planned on making a years worth tomorrow. So glad to see this video before I made my first batch. Thank you so much!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome, I'm glad it was helpful for you -Crystal :)

[@Nazfragrancelover]

Any recipe for a actual homemade detergent?

[@KKP-]

To keep towels absorbent you add about 1/2 cup of white vinegar to washer. I do use fabric softener in rinse cycle but it does make the towels less absorbent after a few washings, but I like the fresh smell l. This works 100% every time. I’ve been doing it for over 30 years 😊

[@she_sings_delightful_things]

I never use fabric softener in towels. You're putting those chemicals all over yoir baked body. If you buy white towels and use a scented bleach, they will smell wonderful and you can forgo the oily, scented waxes they use in fabric softeners.

[@RaspJamArt]

the vinegar also really helps me

[@emmteemee]

I don't like strong fragrances but I use a small amount of fabric softener to prevent static. I live in the southwest where the air is very dry and static is a big on problem. I also use laundry balls, but they aren't enough on their own. A little bit (a tablespoon or two) of fabric softener is all I need to prevent static, and my towels are just fine. Downey makes a plant based version now, so that's be what I've been using. It does have fragrance, but it's not irritating with the small amount I use.

[@Metqa]

@@emmteemee I have neither washer nor dryer, I hand wash and air dry. yet I never get static. Is Static just a byproduct of electric dryers? I've seem people put things like new tennis balls or balls made of wool into their dryer to reduce static. Don't know if it works but sharing in case it helps. Cheers.

[@kathykernell5836]

KKP does the vinegar bleach your cloths out?

[@marymann7889]

Thank you so much I bought all the ingredients to make my own laundry detergent. But now I have changed my mind. I was going to make it tomorrow so thank God I saw this to night. Thank you so much for Sharing

[@thenourway]

Thank you! I was having a soap scum issue in my washing machine AND dishwasher (was using various DIY recipes)... This makes so much sense and I truly appericate the science behind it.... Now CAN YOU DO A REVIEW OF THE VARIOUS "FREE AND CLEAR" DETERGENTS AND HOW EFFECTIVE YOU HAVE FOUND THEM TO BE???

[@dinarusso3320]

If it helps, my kid has very sensitive skin and I ordered the laundry detergent sheets off the internet. They are hypoallergenic and he hasn't had issues, and my clothes were very clean. I dissolve the sheets in an empty bottle and pour directly into the stains and completely gone

[@sarahrandall6416]

@@dinarusso3320 I am interested in the soap you speak of, do you know the brand name? Thank you

[@pamelaremme38]

I use and have used ALL free and clear all my life. I should say when it came out. I am 65. I am highly allergic to all other laundry soaps. Not ALL Free and clear.

[@embr4065]

I think the ALL free and clear is the best. Laundry soaps irritate my husband's skin, but we have NEVER had an issue with the ALL.

[@pipiwilson7854]

This is why I'm raising my children to ask questions. Be curious. If you still don't get it ask again or someone else. Read. Feed your brain. Ask others if they have any questions. These are just a few of the "annoying" mom things they will probably say to their kids someday 😁 Thanks for this brain food, Homemaking on the Homestead... This makes so much sense now. 🦋

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Love this! Thank you for sharing 😃 -Crystal 🙂

[@pipiwilson7854]

@@HomemakingontheHomestead Just wanted to wish you and yours a nice day💚 Pass it on. Our Earth needs so much love 💘

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you! ❤

[@alonsomendoza1775]

this deserves some sort of science award

[@livewireOrourke]

I agree. Honestly, why are science awards only given to school kids and scientists?

[@BB-to4bs]

I made my own powder detergent about 10 years ago. I loved it, smelled nice and really worked. Used it for a while. Then I noticed my fairly new Samsung front loader was leaking water from around the soap dispenser. Called a repair guy and he opened it up. The lines were clogged with the soap I grated. I grated it fine too btw. It was a total loss. He also said he has seen the rubber or silicone parts breakdown with the Borax from the homemade detergents. I had to get a new washer and I’m back to commercial detergent. He did say people use way more soap then needed. So I use less. Still miss the homemade detergent.

[@babycakes8434]

Another thing is that Samsung make disposable washers that break within 3 years, and dryers that don't work properly right out of the box. Avoid Samsung washers and dryers in the first place.

[@Sammiejammie521]

@@babycakes8434true

[@Thee-_-Outlier]

Excellent video and bonus points for making it despite your most popular content saying the opposite. You have made me take a change of direction on how I clean my clothes

[@NessaRossini...]

It's just hubs and me here, retired and disabled, so we don't have a lot of washing to do. We wait until the laundry baskets are full, then wash about once every two weeks. For the little detergent we use we just buy it from the store. We have soft water so only use half of the amount (or less) since our clothes aren't really dirty. I wash scarves and delicates by hand with olive oil and laurel bar soap, that I use in the shower, and they do well so far. I'll start to throw in a little detergent once in a while from now on to make sure the delicates are releasing the dirt. Thank you for your informative and easy to understand explanation.

[@suzanne3669]

Thank you very much for this information. I was noticing that my clothes were not as clean as I felt they should be. And yes, my towels were not absorbing. I've stopped making my own laundry soap now.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You’re welcome! I’m glad it was helpful for you. -Crystal 🙂

[@chulada03]

I love your honesty, I hope you are happy for ever, you deserve it for been so nice!

[@vixenligon1167]

Thank for making this video. I had feared that homemade soap would not work laundry machines. Laundry machines need detergent. I have had people ask me to make laundry soap and I refused. I was afraid it would break their machine. Your video help confirm my belief.

[@ThePayneAdventures]

Great information! My wife and I were about to start making our own laundry soap and are so glad we found your video. Thank you!

[@andreaaarons8682]

So I have been Making my own DIY laundry soap for quite some time now. I have done extensive research and so to help with the soap scum it’s true what your friend said you have to add a surfurcant to the DIY laundry soap so I use one bag of Foca laundry detergent in the mix because it eat’s away at enzymes ,food and bacteria in the clothes and I also use a half a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle,I also add Oxiclean unscented to get that gunk and build up out and keep my whites white and my color’s bright after the course of time I will wash my towels in regular detergent and use the vinegar rinse to wash away the buildup soap scum and bacteria so that’s how I found that it was very effective to use my homemade laundry detergent, it’s not as frugal as I would like it to be but it saves a whole lot of money!!!!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you for sharing Andrea. Your additions are interesting... So with your additions what are you spending per load of laundry?

[@yannettemiller]

I use Oxiclean as well as Borax and I use white vinegar in a Downy ball in every load. I do not try to figure out how much it costs me to do my laundry this way, I just know that it is a lot cheaper. I do not use dryer sheets or anything like that either. I make my own 100% wool dryer balls. You can scent them with essential oils if you want to. They help to dry your laundry a lot faster as well.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

@@yannettemiller I also make and use wool dryer balls. I love them!

[@carladurland5194]

I followed the basic popular recipe and i would get bleach spots on my cotton clothing 😥😥

[@celesteelijah8923]

Thank you, Andrea. I will certainly try these tips. I just made my first batch of liquid detergent. I'll see how things go.

[@ritacottrell9271]

I'm so glad I found you before I made the home made " soap " for laundry detergent. You explained the difference between the two. Great information. I am now following you.🤗💕

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you so much for subscribing!! Glad the info was helpful.

[@AB-ComeLordJesus]

Same here. I was leery of using bar soap because I was thinking what about soap scum and how would it affect my clothes.I thought with all the women raving about homemade detergent I'd try it. This is a video with confirmation of my doubts.

[@benny1509]

Thank you for this video. I have stopped to do homenade laundry detergents with soap flakes, when I read in the instruction booklet of my washing machine that it's strongly not reccomended to add soap in flakes or pieces,otherwise the manufacturer declines all responsability for any breakdowns the machine may suffer.

[@Dodgeowner]

Thanks for this. (I realize this is 2 years old video). 25 years ago, I was making this exact recipe, to save money. I really thought I was doing great. A year in, I had to take a job outside the home in retail. I noticed a few months in, that my white shirts were very dingy next to my co-workers. I immediately went back to regular detergent.

[@servantrose]

this was amazing! I had this problem for years w some embarrassment. Due to health reasons we needed to be as natural as possible. Over time health conditions improved and I moved on to free and clear detergents (all problems are gone) but always thought I should travel back to homemade soaps... you just made me feel a lot less guilty about it. bc I certainly am not going to use a washboard just so I can do the soap thing.. meh.

[@pamelaremme38]

Dumb question but what does meh mean?

[@nicolea9331]

Similar to saying ugh

[@Metqa]

Isn't it great that there are more optons for scent and dye free detergents these days!? I started making soap for my friend who had asthma and complained whenever their mother would steal their laundry at holidays and wash them all with strongly scented blue liquid detergent. LOL I got used to having my clothing NOT smell like a chemical perfume storm and kept doing it. It has not been a problem for me becuase I don't have any washer/dryer to clog up I guess. Luckily, their mom got on the bandwagon and started buying scent free, dye free detergent and I think everyone is happier, and I am too because I have to option to buy instead of make, but I still have my bucket of soap to use up and it's really good and strong so I still have no complaints.

[@kerstinchagas6924]

I ask about how this homemade soap can affect washing machine, but nobody gives me an answer, I feel so great full for your honesty❣️👏

[@jonjoe89]

I saw the homemade recipe online and thought it was so weird people were using bar soap. Listening to your breakdown is exactly why I thought it was such a bad idea.

[@Metqa]

It's a good idea if you are hand washing and agitating though. Times change, methods change. Knowing why is most important. I don't have a washing machine. I hand wash and have a turning drum, and I air dry. But I also use hot water, lots of agitation and vinegar to neutralize any remaining soap. Knowing is half the battle. I do use the laundromat for large loads but there are now a lot more choices for scent free dye free detergent options. I have a huge 5 gallon bucket of homemade soap I am making my way through, as I really don't like the scents of most cheap laundry detergents but can use just a bit of it plus some Homemade soap to get the clean without as much of the chem stink. I don't know why they think those strongs smells are actually pleasant. Yuck!

[@rerehuia709]

I learnt this when I used my homemade. If you look at how laundry was done in the ages past......, the materials, cotton, linen etc, boiling, methods of soaking, etc......something we have replaced with one method, one machine.. Loved your explanation, just brilliant, thank you. Simple science. What do you think of intermittent use between products. CrankyGranny Western Australia

[@mrsjones6797]

So glad I saw this! I was on the way to buy ingredients

[@happyface2373]

Same here

[@jaysondew3739]

Me too I was ready to save

[@shazdave8886]

I was on my laptop looking for homemade laundry detergent and came across this post. You saved me from some disasters with my new front loader.

[@Grown-N-Nosey]

I appreciate your point of view. I've always used the recipe that includes oxiclean stain remover powder. $20 bucks vs. the $50 I was spending monthly is a great bargain. I hadn't noticed anything wrong with our towels or dingy whites. But I'm gonna bet it's the oxiclean that keeps that from happening. Also, I've learned that Zote and Fels Naptha have detergent additives in it. The soap we make is usually only oils and lye. I tried to use my personal homemade soap in the stead of the Zote and it clogged my front loader. So I definitely won't be doing that again.

[@happycook6737]

Costco brand powder detergent is quite good. I dissolve it in warm water before adding it to my washing machine. Very cheap per load and works well.

[@JustHereToHear]

Can you please share your recipe?

[@Tnicole01]

@@happycook6737how much of the powder do you use?

[@blackitikatt533]

Wow! This was extremely helpful! I just started making my own soap powder this year. I always add a little name brand powder soap to my mix; maybe that's why I haven't noticed anything yet. Thanks for the heads up! ❤

[@MsStarbright84]

Thank you I was in Walmart buy all of the ingredients and then saw your video and put it all back lol ver informative!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Glad you found the information helpful! -Crystal :)

[@kellymelvin3049]

Thank you so much for explaining this. I also used to DIy. It ruined my clothes and my machine. The first “real” detergent wash my stuff looked like mud

[@dxpressa]

Thanx so much for honestly sharing your experiences and wonderful insights. I've wanted to make my own laundry pods following the youtube recipes. I now realize that while I love😍 the concept of doing "homemade". It's not realistic for me. It's just myself at home now and with arthritic limitations, I need to work smart and not hard. This was very helpful. 🌻Blessings to you.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Dee, I’m very glad this helped you 😊 -Crystal🙂

[@luella2897]

Crystal, Thank You for this explanation! I used your homemade laundry soap for several years and then my husband started complaining so I stopped. I had not seen your You Tube channel until this video , which I am watching in 2022. Thanks again and I'll subscribe as I always loved your blog and web site!!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome Luella and thank you for subscribing! -Crystal :)

[@tamaramarrone]

Oh wow! Thanks for sharing. I couldn't understand why water just rolls off the towels and takes forever to absorb water🤦🏿‍♀️

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I know that's a common problem for many people. I'm glad you found it helpful! -Crystal :)

[@applejaxs3255]

This was so helpful for me because I’ve been debating on making my own or buying a different that’s more eco friendly and you have given me the answer! Thank you I also just subscribed😁

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you! And I'm glad it was helpful 😊

[@itzmerose1217]

My trouble with the homemade soap is mold problem. As I think about it soap leaves scum and scum turns into mold if not found. So I am taking ur avice and stop making my own. U had me thinking about the soaps. Thank u

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome -Crystal :)

[@cathydavidson5767]

Thankyou so much. I appreciate your video. My clothes have been getting terribly dingy and I thought it was because we moved into an apartment and I wasn't hanging my laundry out in the sunshine anymore . After watching your video I began to think about the "natural" laundry strips I started using after we moved in here, which are suppose to be detergent-free and good for the environment. I guess when you get right down to it it's a trade off... save money and the environment and have grubby looking clothes or vice versa. Cathy from Canada.!

[@aglenn6453]

Thanks for the info...It explains why my whites looked dingy when I used the homemade detergent that I made. I had decided to stop using it because of that.......

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I'm glad my info was helpful -Crystal :)

[@WhitneySt0rmy]

I came to KZbin to figure out why Dreft detergent was so bad and was recommended this video. I stayed for this entire video. You answered a different question I didn't even know I had. 😂 I'll be subscribing. ♥️

[@webeducation]

its like the difference between prewash spray & high powered soap spray at the car wash. The prewash spray is most important because it breaks apart the dirt on your car, but most people will just turn on the high powered soap spray instead. When in reality you can just skip that part. Prewash -> then foam brush is best.

[@alphb58]

That has to be the BEST explanation & when one gets down to the logical science of it all, of the differences between soaps & detergents I've ever heard. I used homemade soap for like maybe a total of one month - had all kinds of pipe & plumbing problems back up from soap scum almost right away - not realizing my plumbing problems were caused by the scum accumulations. But when one thinks of it - its like pouring fats & grease down a drain almost! Great information!!

[@ivonnebarrientos4685]

I buy cheap laundry detergent and add a bit of dawn works great and I only spend around $5 bucks a month. (Foca Liquid detergent)

[@cassandrav9977]

Can you share the recipe?

[@traviousandrews1015]

I put dawn in my laundry once and it didn't end well lmao

[@dinarusso3320]

Some of the cheap laundry detergent clean well and some don't. I just try them and find out. If they don't work, I just don't buy it again. And a squirt of Dawn helps with dirt and grease or a scoop of Borax really cleans everything

[@dinarusso3320]

@@traviousandrews1015 sweety, if you use dawn in washer, just use a tiny squirt or too many suds and won't rinse out

[@pamwasham2152]

@@traviousandrews1015 I had the very same experience you had with the Dawn detergent. People talk about it like it just does everything so perfectly no matter what it is you got to get some dawn! . I don’t feel that way about it though. In fact I don’t think I like it very much at all.

[@a.walters123]

Random, but I LOVE listening to your voice. It’s so rich and I love the natural way you annunciate certain letters.

[@katzap4494]

I used soap berries with baking soda for years and it was great. I still use them on occasion, just have to buy a new batch. They’re from a tree in South Asia. Definitely recommend!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you for sharing! I mention these in the follow up video I made. I have not tried them so appreciate you sharing.

[@ml3110]

Thank you for sharing this video. I learned my recipe from Heidi at rain country on KZbin. She used washing soda, baking soda, and salt. I found that my clothes still had a little smell to them. Maybe it was no smell. So I mix a little older band with water probably a 1 to 10 ratio, if that much. I put a little of that in the bleach container of the washing machine. That is how I do the laundry. I'm going to pay attention closely and see if I notice Whites not as white or towels not absorbent. So far I don't think I've noticed these things though. Thank you so much, again, for sharing this video!

[@ml3110]

PS. She said not to use borax because it will deteriorate your elastic and such.

[@ml3110]

Typo correction: I use a little bit of Odoban with water solution to help with a fresh scent. 👍🌷

[@amitchell9820]

I make my own laundry detergent with 3/4 cup washing soda and 3/4 cup Dawn dish washing liquid and 4 cups very hot water. I use Dawn dish washing liquid but your favorite should be fine. I dissolve washing soda using a old wooden spoon in 4 cups of very hot water, until water is almost clear. Then I add dish washing liquid mixing well, a few drops of essential oil (your favorite smell) can be added for smell but not necessary. I pour into old laundry detergent jug I kept, top off with room temp water to fill jug up. It will separate between loads so I gently tip jug side to side to mix again, I don’t recommend shaking the jug. It will make a mess in the lid when you open the jug and spill out. It makes about 75-80 ounces and I use 1/4 cup per load. I have a he washer and have used this for over a year, my clothes get clean and no soap buildup in my washer.

[@FranLu-qs2xv]

Your kitchen behind you is beautiful. I love it! I would love to have a small kitchen; I currently do, but a bit bigger. I like to do cooking all from one spot and just turn to get my things. This just popped up so thank you and saving it for future house design. Take care

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you 😊 It was actually a 2nd kitchen my hubby put in while my daughter and her family were living with us. The kitchen was very easy to work in and a great design by my hubby.

[@ninalexa7933]

I am SOO glad that I stumbled upon this video. There's a video trending on TikTok about making homemade detergent using soaps and I initially was going to try it, but luckily the Target that I went to didn't carry the ingredients that I needed. Then somehow, part of me needed to research if it's a good idea to create homemade detergent using soaps and I am sooo glad that I've watched your video! It makes sense! Thank you so much for this video! ❤

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome... I have a follow up video that shares other ideas and options. You can see that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHSxZqyklL2sZrc

[@peggysnow7291]

Thank you very much!!! I was just about to start making my own!!! What you say makes perfect sense! I don't WANT to scrub my laundry!!! And I can't afford to mess it up!!! There's no savings in THAT!!! Thank you again very much!!!!

[@pcdguy]

Mechanical action in any laundry machine is created by adding the correct amount of linen. Too much linen and it has no room to agitate against the sides of machine or against the other linen. It also doesn’t allow the cleaning products to evenly distribute. Too little and you get the opposite effect. There are other factors as well, such as water quality, temperature, products used and the amount of time per cycle. In the end, if you changed products and things are better, then it seems like you solved your problem. Thanks for the video!

[@Cookiecookie7567]

I was gonna make DIY laundry soap and use it in my HE machine but I’m so glad that I watch your video before I do. This is so helpful

[@V33v0]

Wow. That was really helpful. Thank you for this information video. I was considering making my own laundry soap, but I'm reconsidering it now.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome -Crystal :)

[@Leidy_Cruz0261]

Love how you explained everything. As someone who loves to learn and needs to understand everything it was amazing listening to you. Everything made sense. Thank you.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sage7x7]

OMG 😱. This is VERY good information! Thank you for giving us an intelligent answer why you stopped using home made laundry detergent! We certainly don’t want to void the warranty of those high tech washing machines that really don’t do a thorough job of cleaning anyway. The washing machine companies need any excuse not to honor their warranty. Thank you for sharing!

[@robin5382]

Thank you for the information on HE soap. I've been making homemade washing machine soap for >10 yrs. I recently watch Jeffrey Tucker on Epoch times taking about our laundering wrong. So informative. He was stating that they have taken TSP ouit of soaps and detergents which removes that soaps, oils, dirt from our clothes. Also we need to use more hot water to clean. We have had trouble with the smells and dinginess of the clothes. I did switch from taken the Fels Nalpha out of my soap thinking about the grime left on washing tub lining and door thinking that was not getting rinsed out. Your explanation about soap and detergent makes sense and will keep that in mind with my laundry trials. Thank you so much.

[@SeaofMadness-lz6ig]

I heard something many years ago from a washing machine repairman. He said only use half of what the detergent bottle says. Its too much for the washing machine and can wear out components fast. I did that and my laundry came out really nice Also dont stuff your machine it wears out the motor

[@tookitogo]

I wouldn’t worry about wearing out the motor, at least not on any machine made in the last 20 years. The electronics or some plastic part will fail long before the motor does.

[@ltodd79]

Good information and a good explanation. I can see having the homemade laundry soap ingredients on hand for a SHTF scenario, or just hand washing of clothing.

[@terrymatsusaki9032]

Thanks for great info! Try using 1 cup of white vinegar only in your towels or clothes once in awhile. You are going to see the difference especially on the towels. White vinegar is antibacterial, deep cleaning and is a brightened. Also absorbent.

[@sherriviz1055]

Holy cow!! I’m so glad I accidentally found this. Your channel is now on my favorites list. Yiu have helped so much. Girl thank you for all that work to figure out about the differences between soap and detergent.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You are so welcome! -Crystal 🙂

[@routtfamily5556]

Thank you for the information and it couldn't have come at a better time. I was thinking of making my own laundry soap but had my doubts. What you are saying makes total sense. I use the Downey scents and I always wondered how something so solid then melt...how would that solidify onto my clothes??!! Makes you wonder. Thanks for putting this video out there.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You're welcome! I'm glad it was helpful for you.

[@arods9168]

thank you so much for your video I was just about to make our start making laundry soap but because of your knowledge I'm not going to do it no more cuz I do have an HE washing machine as well thanks again Albert Rodriguez

[@hisimagenme]

Knowing all this, what I chose was to reduce the zoat soap by half and add oxy-powder. I do add scented crystals but they are pure magnesium based, not just any bottle of "laundry booster" crystals on the shelf. FYI: these crystals are getting harder to find. Oils in general should not be used in laundry. That's why I never use Castille soap in machines and even kitchen due to the disposer. It's asking for clogging issues, even in a bathtub. You'll find you need Drano more often, like the old days when we had to use Drano alot to cut the residue build up in pipes. The hair would get caught in the residue, where hair wouldn't normally clog up a drain. So it's kind of common sense really. I have no chemistry background and abhore the thought of having to try to figure such things out. It really did just make me think about residue build up with all these homemade recipes. I do put a few drops of teatree oil in my bath, but the soap we use to wash ourselves with breaks it down, going down the drain. Oils are great for personal body cleansing, but you must think about your drains and pipes when using them. Remember back in "the day" baths were the form of bathing and usually in a metal tub you emptied by dumping out - outside, not down a drain. With each thing comes a new factor of use. If I use homemade laundry soap, I prefer the liquid version and use half the recommended zoat... technically you could wash your clothes with just baking soda but they will be stiff... or just oxyclean. Either way, it's up to each person to be responsible about learning the technology they work with and the products they want to produce for themselves. You can't throw wood into a water heater for fuel to make it work. It uses gas. Same concept. Don't throw Great grandma's tech at today's... you'll end up paying for it. Great video, thank you.

[@rhondakay6998]

I make my own body soap with coconut oil. I do get soapscum but I clean my tubes and showers with a mixture of Dawn Free and Clear, white vinegar and distilled water. I've never had clogged drains.

[@Valerie11859]

I just started making mine. Now I'm confused.

[@homegirl2000]

Good point about 'Grandma's tech'! Thank you @Rhonda Kay for your tip to clear pipes bc we do use fat based soaps as well as detergents.

[@janetglidden2901]

I have been thinking about making my own laundry detergent and came across your video. Thank you very much. I have a front load He washer and don’t want to take any chances ruining it

[@oneearthmerged6855]

Thank you for these awesome tips and knowledge around this subject - it definitely was helpful coming across this. I want to add that many petroleum products may be harmful to ocean life including us unfortunately. Therefore if the cost for organic detergents steer you away; I recommend using laundry bar soap specifically for machine/hand washing (without the extra oils) as well a high alkaline washing powder that is actually made from baking soda to wash your clothing naturally. There are so many recipe tutorials out there too

[@Angela_1106]

Thank you very much for making this video. You have saved me from ruined my clothes and my washing machine. I bought all the ingredients to make the laundry soap. Thanks God I saw your video before i do that. God Bless you. Do you have any recipe for a powder detergent laundry soap? thanks

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Angela, the only thing, so far that I have recommended was to use an inexpensive powdered detergent (such as Foca or Roma) in place of the Zote or Fels Naptha. I'm not sure that would be HE friendly if you have an HE machine. I'm still doing research on it all. -Crystal🙂

[@daisylopez8458]

Thank you for taking the time to teach us all the differences between soap vs. Detergent and why it is important to use detergents in an HE washer. :D

[@yarnexpress]

Thank you for explaining the difference between soap & detergent. I learned the difference years ago when I had a "care" label that stated washable in soap NOT detergent. I think it was a goose down comforter dried in the dryer with a couple of tennis balls but it could have been something else.

[@debbiem2146]

Thank you for the valuable info! Rain Country brought me here. She makes her own DETERGENT, which I will try, especially now that I've heard your explanation. :-)

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I just watched her video on this and I love what she has put together. I'm going to be trying it out soon! -Crystal 🙂

[@darleneschreiber9415]

@@HomemakingontheHomestead Please let us know what you think!

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I will! 😀

[@darleneschreiber9415]

@@HomemakingontheHomestead Did you ever try this recipe out? Thoughts? If you've already covered this, I missed it, so please link it. Thanks! :)

[@br7283]

Thank you! I know you made this several years ago but I found the information you shared very helpful and probably why I won't take the time to make my own laundry detergent.

[@christinab6576]

Thank you for this video! I have heard so much good and bad about homemade laundry soap. I am all about saving money. But when we bought a new washer my husband was adamant about using he specific detergents. He did not want to void the warranty. So I would not have used homemade laundry soap anytime soon because we havent had the washer that long and have a 3 year warranty. But I have a cousin who at one point was making her own laundry soap and seemed to like it a lot. And I have an aunt who has been making it for years and swears by it. I didnt want to use boron so I didn't like her recipe. But I've heard many people say the complaints you had about clothes and things and I did not want those issues. But listening to your video helped me realize that unless I want to move near a creek and get out the washing board then I need to just use the proper laundry soap. Thank you for that.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Hi Christina, ha, ha.. that's funny :D (move near a creek and get out the washing board) :) I'm glad the video was helpful for you -Crystal :)

[@laurabrown5983]

saw a recipe using Dawn instead of bar soap maybe that would change it up??

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

I made a follow up video sharing different ideas and options and that was one of them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHSxZqyklL2sZrc

[@marywells6928]

Thank you for sharing! You did a great job explaining and I also appreciate your honesty!

[@donnadavey7295]

Thank you for being so informative and taking the time to explain the “hows & whys😊

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

You are so welcome!

[@lisaeveridge9033]

I have not made any homemade laundry detergent yet, however I would like to say that in the past with store bought detergents and fabric softeners I had a problem with towels not absorbing water. My problem was with using too much fabric softener

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Yes fabric softeners can do that. -Crystal 🙂

[@tonirad9577]

Well thank you ! I have been telling myself I need to step up my game and make my own laundry soap because I am raising two teenage grandsons , and yay now I don't have to ! Thanks again, good video 🎉

[@jcsh3211]

Thank you so very much for explaining this and taking time out to really get down on whats up with Detergent and Soap.

[@idee7896]

I just became a subscriber. You are The sane voice among a sea of unthinking followers.

[@HomemakingontheHomestead]

Thank you 😊

[@Shut-up-Shelly]

I have made my own and have 100 had soap scum ring around my wash tub! Thank you for posting this! I thought I was doing something wrong!! Now I know!! ❤