Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

I made my own dishwasher detergent. How weird is that? Who new that things we buy from the store we can actually make at home. Crazy!

Here's the recipe I used. I forgot to photograph the salt below. Don't forget the salt. I also used Kool-Aid instead of just plain citric acid. The Kool-Aid at my local grocery store was cheaper. Also, washing soda and Borax can be found in the laundry isle.

Dishwasher Detergent Formula

In a plastic container with a firmly fitting lid, mix:

1 cup 20-Mule-Team Borax
1 cup Washing Soda
1/4 cup Kosher salt
1/4 cup citric acid OR two packets of Lemonade-Flavored Kool-Aid (ONLY lemon or you'll dye your dishwasher and ONLY unsweetened Kool-Aid)
Put all of it in the container, shake it up.

Use one tablespoon for a normal sized load.



I found a cute little jar to keep it air tight on the counter.

We have hard water, so I am also using vinegar in the rinse cycle to prevent white spots.

I hate the smell of vinegar. Like passionately hate it. Mr. Wright loves it and intentionally buys salt and vinegar potato chips just because he knows he can eat them all to himself. Then he eats them right in my face. Then he asks me if I want to try one. Then I make gagging and vomiting noises in hopes to ruin his appetite. I don't ruin his appetite.

Anywho, the point is I was worried all the dishes would smell and taste like vinegar.

I could be poisoning everything!

I am happy to report I could not smell it while the dishwasher was running. I filled the little Jet Dry compartment on the inside door and have not smelled it since.

The dishes have been cleaning beautifully, and I thrilled to have found an easy way to save money on clean dishes!

If only I could find away to banish vinegar entirely from Mr. Wrights diet. :(