DIY Dishwasher Detergent

Dishwasher detergent has always been an issue for me. Either I felt it was too expensive... or just didn't work! For the past several months I have been playing with different at home recipes that I found on Pinterest etc but none worked exactly how I wanted. Well I think I finally found a solution that works for me!!!

For starters I use vinegar in place of Jet Dry. Vinegar is is so many DIY projects that I always have it around and it works great for so many things! I pour mine right into the Jet Dry area my dishwasher has which works best for me, however many people use 1/4 cup in a small container on the top shelf of their dishwasher!

Secondly I mix 2 cups of Borax with 2 cups of baking soda. I find Borax in the laundry aisle at my local store and I always have baking soda at home. Now I have seen Arm and Hammer washing soda used in a similar recipe but it is difficult to find in my area!!! I whisk up the mixture and add essental oils. Now the mix and amount is up to you. I used a citrus blend of orange, lime and lemon and I used a good amount (approx 40-45 drops in total) because I like to smell that citrus scent come from my dishwasher.

Lastly you need some Dawn dishwashing liquid... the good old original formulation. I often find mine at the dollar store which only adds to the savings!! (You can skip this step if you are able to get your hands on Arm and Hammer Washing Soda)

How do you put it all together?? As I mentioned above my Jet Dry compartment is already filled with vinegar. Then I simply fill my detergent compartment with the Borax baking soda blend and add a small amount (approx 1 tablespoon) of Dawn to the inside of the dishwasher. I just squeeze it right into the bottom of the basin.

Thats it now run your dishwasher and be amazed!!

Want a price comparison??? I always used the Electrasol tabs in my washer previously so I will compare using that product. I found the Powerball tabs on Amazon for $30.43 for 85 tabs. That is .36 cents a load and a way better price you will find in stores. If you break down the cost into units, our detergent costs us .17 cents per dishwasher load!! That is a $16.15 savings over the 85 loads the Electrasol will do!!