Friday, August 1, 2008

Frugal Friday attempt

Lately, I've been trying to find ways for our family to save more money. Rather, I've been looking for ways to be cheap so we can spend money on other things. One thing I've been interested in is homemade laundry detergent. I hate spending money on household cleaners and toiletries. After doing some internet research, I made my list of ingredients-Washing Soda (not Baking Soda), Borax, and soap (Fels-Naptha). Last week, when we were at Target, I looked for these and found nothing. Last night, at Dillons, I found all 3. So today is the day I go back in time!

The link above has the actual recipe, test experiment, and cost comparison. If this works, I may try making my own softener, as well!

tip-I read once that using vinegar works well as a fabric softener. I don't know if I could handle the smell, though. I also read that you can use a few drops of essential oil (any scent) on a washcloth. Throw that into the dryer and that works well, too.

I hope to report our findings after the weekend, with pix for proof. If this actually works, I may look for ways to make others things I hate spending money on, like toilet paper!

2 comments:

Kevin said...

let us know the cost breakdown too... i'm not convinced of this yet! :)

Michelle Osborn said...

I usually buy Gain for about $9.99 and that lasts thru 55 loads.

What I made this morning cost $1.88 (plus 3 gallons of water) for about 52 loads.

I do 8-10 loads per week.

Remember, this is just the detergent. I also use fabric softener, Shout, and color safe bleach for every load. I'm still working on how to save on those...

I saved enough money today for you to take us out for ice cream tonight!