How to Make Dishwasher Detergent Cubes: A Money-Saving Guide
Welcome to the world of sustainable and budget-friendly cleaning! In an era where environmental awareness is crucial, finding effective alternatives to commercial cleaning products is essential. If you’re aiming to cut down on plastic waste, minimize harmful chemicals, and control what goes into your dishwasher detergent, crafting your own detergent cubes is an excellent solution.
Why Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Cubes?
Making your own dishwasher detergent cubes is not only eco-friendly but also budget-conscious. You get to customize your detergent to meet your specific needs, avoiding harsh chemicals and excessive packaging. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy and cost-effective!
Benefits of DIY Detergent Cubes
Eco-Friendly: By making your own detergent, you significantly reduce plastic waste and contribute to a greener planet. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, reducing plastic waste can have a substantial positive impact on the environment.
Chemical Control: You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid harsh chemicals found in many commercial detergents. This is especially important for households with allergies or sensitivities.
Cost-Effective: DIY detergent cubes can be much cheaper than store-bought options. For example, it costs about $1.23 to make 12 cubes, which is roughly ten cents per cube. In comparison, a pack of 20 commercial pods can cost around $5, or about 25 cents per pod.
Versatile Ingredients: Ingredients like borax and washing soda are not only effective in cleaning dishes but also useful for various household cleaning tasks.
Reduced Packaging: Making your own detergent eliminates the need for excess packaging, supporting sustainable living.
Safe for Kids and Pets: Natural ingredients make the detergent safer for households with children and pets.
Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Cubes Recipe
Servings: 24 cubes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Set Time: 6-8 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Borax
- 1 cup Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (NOT baking soda)
- 1/4 cup Epsom Salt
- 1 tsp citric acid (optional)
- 4-6 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- Ice Cube Trays
Find all the ingredients on Amazon here.
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the Borax, Arm & Hammer Washing Soda, Epsom Salt, and citric acid (if using). Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Add Lemon Juice: Gradually add lemon juice to the dry mixture while stirring. The mixture will fizz; continue adding slowly to control the fizzing.
- Achieve Consistency: Stir until the mixture reaches a “sticky” consistency. It should hold together when pressed but not be runny.
- Fill Ice Cube Trays: Spoon one tablespoon of the mixture into each slot of an ice cube tray. Fill all slots.
- Set and Dry: Place the tray in a cool, dry area. Allow the detergent cubes to dry for 6-8 hours until solidified.
- Store: Remove the cubes from the tray and store them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag to maintain their effectiveness.
How to Use:
- Place one detergent cube in the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Select your desired cycle and start the dishwasher.
- Enjoy the results of sparkling clean dishes!
FAQs for Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Cubes
- Is this detergent safe for all dishwashers?
Yes, it’s safe for standard dishwashers and contains natural, non-toxic ingredients. - Can I use these cubes for handwashing dishes?
No, these are formulated for dishwashers only. - Will these work in hard water areas?
Yes, the Epsom Salt and citric acid help combat hard water deposits. - Can I omit citric acid?
Yes, but the detergent will be slightly less effective. - Can I substitute vinegar for lemon juice?
Yes, white vinegar can be used as an alternative. - How many cubes per load?
One cube is usually sufficient. Use more for larger or heavily soiled loads. - Can I add essential oils?
Yes, a few drops for fragrance are fine, but they don’t add to the cleaning power. - Are these cubes septic-safe?
Yes, they are generally safe for septic systems. - How should I store them?
Keep them in an airtight container or zip-lock bag to avoid moisture. - Can these be used for other cleaning tasks?
Yes, the ingredients are versatile but avoid delicate surfaces.
Embrace the Benefits of Homemade Cleaning!
By making your own dishwasher detergent cubes, you not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Ready to make the switch? Start creating your own detergent cubes today and enjoy cleaner dishes while being kind to the planet.
Check out my other DIY recipes:
How to Make Your Own Fabric Softener
Homemade Essential Oil Playdough
Dishwasher Detergent Cubes
Discover how to make dishwasher detergent cubes with this simple DIY recipe! Save money, reduce waste, and ensure your dishes sparkle with ease. Perfect for eco-friendly and budget-conscious households, this guide shows you how to create effective, natural detergent cubes using common ingredients. Enjoy cleaner dishes and a greener home today!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Borax
- 1 cup Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (NOT baking soda)
- 1/4 cup Epsom Salt
- 1 tsp citric acid (optional)
- 4-6 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- Ice Cube Trays
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the Borax, Arm & Hammer Washing Soda, Epsom Salt, and citric acid (if using). Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Add Lemon Juice: Gradually add lemon juice to the dry mixture while stirring. The mixture will fizz; continue adding slowly to control the fizzing.
- Achieve Consistency: Stir until the mixture reaches a "sticky" consistency. It should hold together when pressed but not be runny.
- Fill Ice Cube Trays: Spoon one tablespoon of the mixture into each slot of an ice cube tray. Fill all slots.
- Set and Dry: Place the tray in a cool, dry area. Allow the detergent cubes to dry for 6-8 hours until solidified.
- Store: Remove the cubes from the tray and store them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag to maintain their effectiveness.
Notes
Mix the Borax, Arm & Hammer Washing Soda, Epsom Salt, and citric acid together.
This is important so make sure it is mixed well.
Add lemon juice.
The mixture will fizz. That’s okay. Just keep it in mind and add the lemon juice slowly.
You’ll want to add between 4-6 Tablespoons of lemon juice to make the powder “sticky”…it won’t be runny when it’s done.
Once you have a “sticky” substance, spoon one tablespoon of the mixture into an ice cube tray.
Continue until all cubed slots are filled on the tray.
Set aside and let dry for 6-8 hours.
Pop-out of tray and place in a container or zip-lock bag to store.
Drop one cube of the detergent into the bottom of your dishwasher and run on the cycle of your choice.
Dishes will come out sparkling!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 24 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 5Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1180mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 0g
The Nutritional Information may not be accurate. This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the USDA Food Composition Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.