Homemade Dishwasher Powder

Though this homemade dishwasher powder may not have the same smell or consistency as a commercial powder, it still works just as well without washing your dishes in chemicals. To help save money, and the environment while getting your dishes clean, you need to try this homemade dishwasher powder.

Dishwasher Powder

This dishwasher powder is simple to make. It contains no toxic chemicals like the commercial products do. Make in small batches so that it doesn’t clump and you will have a sparkling dishes without all the nasties inadvertently being consumed off plates washed with toxic dishwashing powder.

These dishwasher tablets contains much of the same ingredients if you prefer to use tablets over powder.

Before Using this Recipe

Before transitioning to homemade dishwasher powder, make sure to thoroughly clean out your dishwasher.  

These natural ingredients may clear away residue or other deposits in your dishwasher and you don’t want these to be deposited onto your dishes.

To Use this Powder

For cleaner dishes, try using 1 TBSP of powder, though for dirtier dishes, use 2 TBSP of powder.

Place the powder in the detergent compartment and rinse aid or vinegar in the rinse aid compartment and run the cycle immediately.

Rinse Aid 

I use white vinegar in my rinse dispenser, though if you are worried about this damaging the plastic/rubber parts in your dishwasher, you could add a small dish of white vinegar, just under ¼ cup, on the top rack of your dishwasher. 

Notes

• If you find that your dishwasher detergent is starting to clump, you could try adding 2 TBSP of bentonite clay in a pouch to your jar. This pouch will help absorb the excess moisture. Those in high humidity places may have an issue with this. If it is too clumpy, you may need to throw it out and start again as hard clumps may not dissolve in the dishwasher.
• I find that this recipe works well, so I don’t really need to add any rinse aide or vinegar. This is up to you and how your dishwasher is cleaning your dishes.
• If you want some other recipes to use your excess washing soda or borax, then check out this Homemade Laundry Powder. 
• Don’t make too much at once to help keep in from clumping. It doesn’t keep well long term, especially in high humidity areas.
• Still follow the dishwasher instructions as to what dishes are able to placed in certain areas in the dishwasher.

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Ingredients for Homemade Dishwasher Powder

To make around 450g (16 ounces) of this recipe, you will need:

• Washing Soda – This can usually be found in the laundry section of the grocery store. It helps to raise the pH level in the water, with softening the water as well as removing stains and grease.  Also known as sodium carbonate, it also helps to descale deposits in the dishwasher.
• Citric Acid – This is a cleaning powerhouse that is added to help beat filmy dish residue.
• Sea Salt – Helps to clean and soften the water. Kosher salt is often used, though you can also use sea salt. It can cause pitting in certain dishes such as stainless steel pots, so this can also be swapped out for extra washing soda.
• Borax – The use of this ingredient is debatable. Do you research and make your own informed choice.  If you don’t want to use borax, replace it with the same amount of washing soda as they do the same sort of job.
• Essential Oils – These are optional. They can help cut through grease, are antibacterial and add a lovely fragrance. If you choose to use them, try using a citrus oil such as grapefruit, lemon, orange or even tea tree.

Washing Soda

It is really simple to make your own washing soda by heating baking soda. When the baking soda is heated, a chemical reaction occurs transforming it to sodium carbonate, which is washing soda.

Here how:

• Spread the baking soda in an even layer on a lined baking tray.
• Bake in the oven at 200˚C (400˚F) for 1 hour.
• Allow to cool completely and then it is ready to use.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are potent, and need to be diluted. Use in the correct quantities. Be careful to avoid sensitive areas like your eyes when using them.

Making Dishwasher Powder

In a large bowl, mix the washing soda, borax, sea salt and citric acid.

Slowly add the essential oils, if using, and gently mix through.

Transfer the powder to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place.

 

 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.