Looking for a natural and inexpensive dishwashing detergent? Check out our DIY recipe that not only saves money but also keeps chemicals away from your dishes!

A few years ago I started making small swaps here and there trying to use more natural cleaners in an attempt to reduce our exposure to toxic chemicals. After washing my kids cups in the dishwasher to have them taste like the store bought detergent I was using I knew this had to be my next swap. No one wants milk with a side of soap, yuck! Not only does this use natural ingredients it costs pennies to make compared to store bought detergents. Saving our health and money, win win! Using homemade, natural products doesn't have to be difficult. All the ingredients in this recipe are easily found at local grocery stores or online. I purchased my washing soda and baking soda from my local Walmart and the citric acid and Revive Lemon oil from Amazon. It takes 5 minutes to mix it all up and you're ready to live a cleaner, healthier life one dish at a time.

Washing Soda find it HERE

Baking Soda find it HERE

Citric Acid find it HERE

Lemon Essential Oil find it HERE

I've tried several combinations and different ingredients but this recipe is the one that I keep coming back to. It cleans my dishes without leaving a residue or a nasty taste to them. As a rinse aid, I put a little splash of white vinegar in the bottom of the dishwasher and it works great. I like to 3-4x this recipe and it fills this half gallon jar lasting us for a couple months.

DIY Dishwashing Detergent

Ingredients:

• 1 cup washing soda

• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 1/4 citric acid

• 4 drops lemon or tea tree essential oil, optional

Instructions:

• In a large bowl add all ingredients and mix until well combined and no large clumps remain.

• Transfer to an air tight container.

• When ready to use, add 1-2 Tbsp to dishwasher and run cycle as normal.