Homemade Dishwasher Detergent... and Bathroom Cleaner

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Like anything homemade I use, I research and research before settling on a recipe.  It was no different with my homemade dishwasher detergent (that also doubles as a bathroom cleaner).  

I didn't want one with borax, but couldn't seem to find one that worked.  One day I finally decided that almost anything I make myself is better than the chemicals found in store-bought detergent. I decided that I would rather control what goes into my detergent than trust a big name company.  I'm happy with the decision I made, and I really love this dishwasher detergent (even if it does contain borax).  

What you'll need:

1 cup borax
1 cup washing soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/4-1/2 cup salt (if you are using course salt, use 1/2 cup)

What you'll do:

1.  Mix all ingredients into a medium size bowl then pour into a container for storage.  A mason jar works great, or you could also use a plastic container with a lid.

2.  Because this recipe contains citric acid, it will clump.  Therefore, you will need to leave it on your counter for 3 days after you make it and stir it a few times a day (I just stir mine every time I walk by it).  After the third day it should be clump free.  Simply put a tight fitting lid on it and store it away.  

How to use your detergent:

• Use 1 tablespoon per load of dishes.  I usually put almost 1 T in the main compartment and then just a small bit in the pre-wash compartment.  You can use a heaping tablespoon if you feel you need it.
• You can also sprinkle 1 tablespoon in your toilet or shower before cleaning them.  I also add vinegar to my toilets and shower before I scrub them.

Notes about this detergent:

• Since borax is harmful if swallowed, you will need to keep it out of reach of children (or anyone else who enjoys taste testing cleaners). 
• You want to make sure there is no detergent left after your wash cycle.  This is true with any detergent because you don't want to ingest any.
• This detergent will clump if you expose it to moisture.  If that happens just stir it very well with a fork to get the clumps out.
• I've been using this recipe for months now with very little problem.  I always rinse dishes before I put then in the dishwasher.  I also have a very powerful dishwasher.