How to Use Laundry Detergent in a Dishwasher

How to Use Laundry Detergent in a Dishwasher
Published: Mar 24, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Unfortunately, replacing dishwasher detergent with commercial laundry detergents or other soaps can cause excessive suds and make your dishwasher overflow. If you find yourself with a lack of clean dishes and dish soap, you can make a quick homemade detergent using washing soda. Washing soda, or sodium carbonate, is a natural product found in some laundry detergents, and is a main ingredient in homemade laundry detergent recipes. You can find washing soda in the laundry aisle of some grocery and natural products stores.

Things You Will Need

  • 1 cup washing soda
  • 1 cup borax
  • Essential oil
  • Vinegar
  • Plastic container with lid
  1. Mix washing soda and borax in a plastic container until well combined.

  2. Mix in two or three drops essential oil if you want a fresh citrus or floral scent.

  3. Add 2 tbsp. of the mix to the detergent compartment of your dishwasher. Pour vinegar into the rinse compartment to prevent cloudy residue on the dishes. Run the dishwasher as normal.

  4. Place a lid on the container and store it.

The Drip Cap

  • Washing dishes is a bothersome chore that many put off until the last minute.
  • If you find yourself with a lack of clean dishes and dish soap, you can make a quick homemade detergent using washing soda.
  • Pour vinegar into the rinse compartment to prevent cloudy residue on the dishes.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images

Christina Sloane

Christina Sloane has been writing since 1992. Her work has appeared in several national literary magazines.

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