Soo... I make my own laundry detergent...

This is not a new concept for many of the crafty ladies whose blogs I read (aka stalk) daily. However, people look at me like I have two heads or might be on rumspringa when I say this in public.

No I'm not Amish. Yes, I can afford laundry detergent. Although, I did start making my own as an attempt to cut my budget to bare bones. And yes, it works just as well as the store bought stuff. In fact, I like it better. That's why I keep making it.

I've seen many recipes all over the interwebs so I know I'm not violating anyones rights to their own ideas by not giving credit for the recipe I use. I don't know where I found this. I know I've seen it many places.

Laundry Detergent:
1 bar soap (most use ivory or phels naptha, I really like Lever with Aloe)
2 cups Borax (the kind with the mules)
2 cups Washing Soda (they sell this at Wegmans and at Ace Hardware*)

Melt grated soap in 1 quart boiling water, pour into large pot, add borax, washing soda, and 2 gallons water. Stir. Pour into old detergent bottles. You may want to add a little more water to adjust consistancy.

* Thanks to the Bower Power folks for the tip about Washing Soda at Ace Hardware. Prior to this, I had been unable to find it and had been substituting baking soda. This works, and works well, but you get a better consistancy and I think a better clean with the Washing Soda.

Here's a pic of the box for anyone who may be interested.