Here is a simple recipe for dishwasher detergent that is free of dangerous chemicals:
What you will need:
- 1 cup of Borax (where to buy borax)
- 1 cup of Baking Soda (where to buy aluminum free baking soda)
- 1/4 cup of sea salt (where to buy sea salt)
- 1/2 tsp of citric acid (food grade)
Directions:
The first time I used this recipe I doubled it, which worked fine for the first week or two – but after that the citric acid started to clump up and cause the rest of the detergent to harden.
So I found the best way to do it is to:
- Combine the borax, salt, baking soda, and citric acid in the quantities listed above in a large container – mix well.
- Add to the dishwasher receptacle.
- Start the machine!
Citric acid is derived from fruit, I don’t like it or think it is necessary as a food additive but it does well dissolving food particles. It is not poisonous, so it gives me peace of mind to know that if my kids somehow got into it they wouldn’t get hurt, unlike most brands of dishwashing soap which would require a trip to the emergency room! We’ve tried it without the citric acid and it doesn’t work nearly as well.
You can also check out my recipe for homemade floor cleaner.
What other natural cleaning products are you interested in seeing recipes for?
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Sylvia, I am currently living in Abu Dhabi.
I am having troubling sourcing Borax, large quantity of bicarbonate of soda, beeswax and washing soda crystals. If you buy any of these products, can you please tell me where you get them from?
Thanks
Hi “Bubbles” 🙂
I buy most things of that nature either at the Organic Store in Dubai (during their once a month 20% off weekends) or on Iherb.com especially when they have their $8 flat rate shipping every couple months since it often works out cheaper than getting it here. My code for $5 off Iherb.com is TEZ902
Hope that helps!
Sylvie
Since this post is a little old, have you had any issues with your dishwasher? My biggest fear of homemade is ruining my dishwasher. I know some people use vinegar in lieu of jet dry and i don’t think that’s a good idea.
Hi Jessica,
I didn’t and I had the dishwasher for 3 years. Our current house doesn’t have a dishwasher. I understand your concern. You might want to try a store bought one instead. Hope that helps!
Fantastic recipe. I can`t believe it is sooooo easy. I am so glad that I have found your article! I promised myself I am going to use only homemade detergents. It is my new life! Best regards!
Glad to hear it Anita!
Do you add the whole mixture for one load, or just what your receptacle takes? After mixing it you say to add to dishwasher, but not sure if you meant the whole batch or just what your dishwasher normally takes. Thanks
Hi Bill, just add what your receptacle will take. Use it as you would any other powder detergent.