If you use a dishwasher regularly, the cost of detergent can add up quickly. Homemade dishwasher tabs can be an interesting alternative, and this borax-free version uses simple ingredients such as baking soda, washing soda, citric acid, salt, and a small amount of castile soap.
The key is to remember that homemade dishwasher detergents can behave differently depending on your water hardness and dishwasher. Always test a small batch first, and don’t assume a homemade mixture will perform as well as a commercial dishwasher detergent.
Ingredients
For approximately 20–24 small dishwasher tabs:
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 cup water, added gradually
- 1–2 teaspoons unscented liquid castile soap, optional
Optional
You can add a few drops of lemon essential oil for fragrance, but fragrance isn’t necessary for cleaning.
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
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