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Green Tip of the Week!

Green It Yourself! How YOU can make your RedHawk life a little Greener.

By Keely Dunham-Adkins

Green Tip of the Week: Homemade Laundry Detergent

 
Photo by Keely Dunham-Adkins
  Being an eco-friendly person isn’t a destination; it is a series of baby steps! As a college student, I find it exceptionally difficult to practice sustainability. However, one of the easiest ways to be eco-friendly is through laundry detergent! I make my own with only three ingredients. Not only is it healthier for the environment, but it also saves me money. Ingredient ratio:
  • 1 part grated natural soap (I use Dr. Bronner's in Lavender, but Ivory works just as well!)
  • 2 parts Borax
  • 2 parts Washing Soda
I store my homemade laundry detergent in a glass jar and use 2 or 3 tablespoons depending on the load size. You can purchase the Borax and washing soda in boxes at Wal-Mart in the laundry detergent aisle. If you want added scent you can add 20 drops of lavender or citrus essential oil.I was skeptical at first but after my first successful load I'm not sure I'll ever go back to paying big dollars for harsh, chemical-filled laundry soap. My clothes smell clean and I love being able to tell people that I make my own laundry detergent. My inspiration comes from this blog.* If you live in a dorm put the laundry detergent in section "A" of the pullout drawer in the washing machine!

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