Dishwahser Soap Recipe

If there is one soap that you should especially buy green or make homemade, it is dishwasher detergent. Phosphates are used to soften water. They have been phased out of your laundry detergents but not dishwasher detergents. Phosphates are a natural occurring substance in nature. The problem is that when algae in water gets too much of it, they go wild. They love this stuff and it creates algae blooms. These blooms can take over a body of water and kill the other things living there.

Here is the recipe. The borax and washing soda are usually in most major store's laundry aisle. Kosher salt is usually in the baking aisle with the rest of the salts. I get the citric acid at Good Foods Coop here in Lexington. It is in the bulk spice area and very cheap. If you don't live here locally, try your local health food or coop. 

1/2 cup borax
1/2 cup washing soda
1/4 cup food grade citric acid
1/4 cup kosher salt (larger salt crystals than table salt)

Mix above ingredients together. Store in airtight container. Use 1 TBLS per load. Can also use a little white distilled vinegar in the rinse agent cup if needed to control spotting.

We have been using this recipe for a while and have not noticed any decrease in cleanliness of dishes. The best part about this is it saves you lots of money. A load costs less than $.01 compared to boughten detergents which can cost up to $.50 per load. I always like when I can be green and save money.