I know that I am venturing out of my usual 'clean eating with the Thermomix' lane here, but after sharing my homemade clean & natural laundry powder recipe in my social media stories on the weekend, I was amazed by how many people wanted to try it! So, I'm putting everything here in one place—including why you should make the switch, what's lurking in conventional laundry detergents, and how much money you'll actually save by making your own.
The best part? It takes just minutes to make in the Thermomix! No hand-grating soap, no mess—just quick, easy, and effective.
If you're looking for a simple, toxin-free, and budget-friendly way to keep your clothes fresh while making the most of your Thermomix, this DIY recipe is for you!
What's Hiding in Store-Bought Laundry Powders?
Before understanding the true benefits of making your own, or even just choosing another clean laundry powder, it's best to start with learning what is in most commercial laundry powders.
Often they are packed with harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin, trigger allergies, and even impact long-term health. Here are some of the most common offenders:
🚫 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) – These create foam but can strip the skin and cause irritation.
🚫 Optical Brighteners – Don't actually clean; they just leave behind a residue that makes fabrics "look" whiter. These can cause skin reactions and don't break down easily in the environment.
🚫 Artificial Fragrances & Dyes – Common triggers for allergies, respiratory issues, and even hormone disruption.
🚫 Phosphates & Petrochemicals – Harmful to aquatic life and waterways.
By switching to a natural, homemade alternative, you skip these unnecessary toxins while still getting clean, fresh-smelling laundry!
Why Choose a Natural Alternative?
✔ Gentle on Skin – No irritating chemicals, perfect for sensitive skin or allergies.
✔ Eco-Friendly – No toxic residue washing into waterways.
✔ Cost-Effective – Saves money compared to store-bought brands.
✔ Actually Cleans – No artificial fillers, just real ingredients that remove dirt and odors.
✔ Smells Fresh Naturally – No overpowering synthetic fragrances, just optional essential oils if you like a scent.
Why Make Your Own in the Thermomix?
1. Super Quick & Easy – No grating soap by hand, just a few pulses in the Thermomix!
2. Saves Money – Costs a fraction of store-bought detergents.
3. Works in All Machines – Front-loaders, top-loaders, even hand washing.
4. You Control the Ingredients – No hidden nasties!
INGREDIENTS
1 whole bar of natural Castile soap (140g bar) – Cleans and lifts dirt. I like using either the Lavender or the Sandalwood & Jasmine options
2 cups washing soda – Breaks down grease and grime
1 cup baking soda – Deodorizes and softens
1 cup Epsom salt – Helps remove residue and softens clothes
Optional: Add 10–15 drops of essential oils (like lemon or lavender) for extra freshness!
Thermomix Instructions
1. Cut the soap bar into 12 pieces.
2. Place the soap pieces in the Thermomix mixing bowl and blitz for 10 seconds / speed 9. It will become finely grated and looks like milled parmesan.
3. Add in the washing soda, baking soda, epsom salt and any optional essential oils if using, into the mixing bowl.
4. Mix for 10 seconds / speed 5 to combine everything evenly.
5. Store in an airtight container to prevent moisture from clumping the mixture.
How to Use:
Add 1 tablespoon per load directly into the washing drum or the detergent drawer.
Works for both hot and cold washes and front or top load machines.
Cost Breakdown – How Much Are You Actually Saving?
Here's the price breakdown for making a full batch:
Final Thoughts – Is It Worth Making?
Absolutely! This homemade laundry powder is:
✅ Cheaper than commercial brands
✅ Safer for your skin and health
✅ Eco-friendly and free from harmful chemicals
✅ Quick & easy to make in the Thermomix
So if you're ready to ditch the chemicals, make the most of your Thermomix, and save some money, give this recipe a try! Let me know in the comments if you make it or if you have any questions. I'd love to hear how it works for you!
