Grate the Castile Soap: Start by grating your bar of Castile soap (or any other unscented, natural soap you prefer) into fine shreds. This makes it easier to dissolve in water.
Dissolve the Soap: In a large pot, add 4 cups of hot water. Bring the water to a boil, and then add the grated soap. Stir continuously until the soap is completely dissolved in the water.
Add the Baking Soda and Washing Soda: Once the soap is dissolved, stir in 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of washing soda. Continue stirring until both powders have fully dissolved into the soap mixture. These ingredients help to soften water, lift stains, and brighten white clothes.
Add Essential Oils (Optional): If you like a light fragrance in your soap, add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil. Lavender and lemon are great for a refreshing, clean scent, while tea tree oil is excellent for its antibacterial properties.
Cool and Store: Allow the mixture to cool, and as it cools, it will thicken. Once cooled, transfer the homemade soap into an airtight container or bottle. If the soap becomes too thick, you can add a little more water to reach the desired consistency.
How to Use:
For Regular Loads: For a regular-sized load of laundry, add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the homemade soap into the washing machine drum (or detergent compartment if using a front-loading machine).
For Extra Stains or Brightening: For stubborn stains or extra brightness, you can also add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. The vinegar helps break down detergent residue, brightens whites, and neutralizes odors.
For Hand Washing: If you’re hand-washing delicate white clothes, use a small amount (about 1 tablespoon) of the homemade soap in a basin of warm water. Gently agitate the water, and soak the clothes for 15-30 minutes before rinsing.
