This easy homemade dishwasher detergent is a simple way to reduce chemicals in your home while saving money.
Made with just four inexpensive ingredients, this natural dishwasher powder is quick to prepare and can help leave your dishes clean and fresh. The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, making it an easy alternative to many commercial dishwasher detergents.
This DIY dishwasher detergent is phosphate-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for households looking to simplify their cleaning routine with fewer unnecessary additives.
Whether you’re creating a more natural home, reducing waste, or simply looking for a budget-friendly cleaning solution, this homemade dishwasher detergent is an easy recipe to keep on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
- Made with just 4 simple ingredients
- Takes less than 5 minutes to prepare
- Budget-friendly and long-lasting
- Fragrance-free and phosphate-free
- Helps keep dishes clean and sparkling
Why Make Your Own Dishwasher Detergent?
Many commercial dishwasher detergents contain fragrances, dyes, and other additives that some people prefer to avoid. Making your own dishwasher detergent gives you complete control over the ingredients while keeping things simple and affordable.
Homemade dishwasher detergent can be an excellent option for those looking to reduce their exposure to unnecessary chemicals while still achieving clean dishes and glassware.
Benefits of Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
- Quick and easy to make
- Uses affordable ingredients
- Ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores
- Phosphate-free and eco-friendly
- Contains no added fragrances or unnecessary chemicals
- Suitable for people sensitive to scented cleaning products
- Helps cut through grease and food residue
- Makes a large batch that lasts for weeks
Ingredients in Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
- Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate) – A powerful natural cleaning agent and water softener that helps break down grease, food residue, and grime on dishes. Washing soda is commonly used in homemade cleaning products because it boosts cleaning power and can help prevent mineral buildup. It is usually found in the laundry aisle of most supermarkets. Choose a product that lists only sodium carbonate as the ingredient.
- Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) – A versatile household cleaner that helps neutralise odours and gently remove food residue from dishes. Its mild abrasive properties can help lift stains and stuck-on food without scratching surfaces. Baking soda is widely available in the baking aisle of grocery stores.
- Citric Acid – A naturally derived acid commonly used in homemade cleaning products. It helps dissolve mineral deposits, hard water buildup, and cloudy residue that can form on dishes and glassware. Citric acid is often sold as white crystals and can usually be found in the baking, spice, or canning section of supermarkets.
- Coarse Salt – Large salt crystals that can help improve dishwasher performance, particularly in areas with hard water. Coarse salt may help reduce limescale deposits and improve the appearance of dishes and glassware by helping to minimise cloudy residue. If you live in a soft water area, you may be able to reduce the amount used in the recipe.
How to Make Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
One of the best things about this homemade dishwasher detergent is how quick and simple it is to prepare. The ingredients are mixed together in a single bowl and then stored in an airtight container until needed.
The recipe makes enough powder for approximately 56 dishwasher loads, making it a budget-friendly option for busy households. If you regularly use your dishwasher, you can easily double or triple the batch to save time.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, measurements, and step-by-step instructions in the recipe card below.
Tips to Prevent Homemade Dishwasher Detergent from Hardening
Because this recipe contains citric acid, moisture in the air can sometimes cause the mixture to clump or harden over time. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to prevent this.
1. Allow the Mixture to Air Dry
After mixing the ingredients together, leave the powder in the bowl for a few days before transferring it to a storage container. Stir occasionally to break up any clumps that form.
2. Add a Silica Gel Pack
A food-safe silica gel packet can help absorb excess moisture and keep the powder dry.
3. Use Uncooked Rice
Place a small amount of uncooked rice into a muslin bag and add it to the storage container. The rice helps absorb moisture naturally and may reduce clumping.
Extra Tips for Best Results
- Double the citric acid if you live in an area with very hard water.
- Reduce the salt by half if your water is naturally soft.
- Make a larger batch to save time and reduce preparation frequency.
- Store the powder in a cool, dry location away from humidity.
- For added shine, try adding white vinegar to the dishwasher rinse aid compartment.
Can You Make Dishwasher Tablets?
Yes. If you prefer dishwasher tablets, simply place the mixture into silicone ice cube trays or moulds and lightly compress it.
Allow the tablets to air dry for several days until firm, then store them in an airtight container. Use one tablet per load as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Effective?
Many people find homemade dishwasher detergent works well for everyday dishwashing, particularly when combined with proper dishwasher maintenance and suitable water conditions.
Can I Use This Recipe in Any Dishwasher?
This recipe is generally suitable for standard household dishwashers. However, it’s always a good idea to check your appliance manufacturer’s recommendations before using homemade cleaning products.
How Long Does Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Last?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, this dishwasher powder can last for several months.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Making your own dishwasher detergent is a simple way to reduce unnecessary chemicals in your home while keeping everyday cleaning affordable. With just four easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and provides enough detergent to last for dozens of loads.
Whether you’re looking for a more natural cleaning routine, trying to save money, or simply enjoy making your own household products, this homemade dishwasher detergent is an easy swap that can fit into a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
Easy Homemade Dishwasher Detergent
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the washing soda, baking soda, citric acid, and coarse salt to a large mixing bowl.
- Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight glass jar or storage container.
- Use approximately 1 tablespoon of dishwasher detergent per dishwasher load.
Notes
- Makes approximately 56 dishwasher loads.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
- To help prevent clumping, allow the mixture to air dry for a few days before storing, stirring occasionally.
- Alternatively, place a food-safe silica gel packet or a small muslin bag filled with uncooked rice in the storage container to absorb excess moisture.
- If you have very hard water, you can increase the citric acid to 2 cups.
- If you have soft water, you may be able to reduce the coarse salt to ¼ cup.
- For extra shine, add white vinegar to your dishwasher’s rinse aid compartment.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.