The Harmful Effects of Borax
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a common ingredient found in many laundry soaps and household cleaners. However, studies have shown that exposure to borax can have harmful effects on human health, including respiratory and skin irritation, and even reproductive issues. In addition, borax can be toxic to pets and wildlife. For these reasons, many people are opting for borax-free laundry soap recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own laundry soap without borax, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of washing soda
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 1 bar of grated soap (such as castile soap)
- 1 cup of oxygen bleach (optional)
- Essential oils (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Grate the bar of soap using a cheese grater or food processor. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the grated soap, washing soda, and baking soda. 3. If desired, add in the oxygen bleach and essential oils. Mix well to combine. 4. Store the mixture in an airtight container. 5. To use, add 1-2 tablespoons of the laundry soap to each load of laundry.
Benefits of Making Your Own Laundry Soap
Aside from avoiding harmful ingredients like borax, making your own laundry soap can also save you money and reduce your environmental impact. By using natural ingredients and reusing containers, you can eliminate the need for single-use plastic packaging.
Tips for Best Results
To get the best results with your homemade laundry soap, follow these tips:
- Use warm or hot water to dissolve the soap and activate the washing soda.
- For tough stains, pre-treat with a stain remover or add a scoop of oxygen bleach to the wash.
- Experiment with different essential oil blends to create a custom scent for your laundry.
Conclusion
By making your own laundry soap without borax, you can avoid harmful chemicals, save money, and reduce your environmental impact. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can have clean and fresh-smelling laundry without relying on store-bought products. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!