Commercial powder can be very toxic, containing phosphates and chlorine which are not kind to the environment.
Over the years, I have tried several homemade recipes as an alternative to commercial dishwashing powders and these both have good results, so give them a try.
And a tip, if you run out of powder, you can always use baking soda instead.
Dishwasher Powder
½ cup of borax
½ cup washing soda
¼ cup of citric acid
½ salt (not iodised, sea salt is good)
2-3 drops orange oil
Place all the ingredients in a plastic container and shake.
Use 1 tbsp per load.
You can also use white vinegar in the rinse aid compartment.
**If it starts to clump, put it in your processor to loosen.*
Dishwasher liquid mix
½ cup water
½ cup Dr Bronner’s castile liquid soap (don’t use normal liquid soap, such as Sunlight, as it will be too bubbly)
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
5 drops tea tree essential oil
½ cup white vinegar
In a squeeze bottle, mix the water and liquid soap together.
Add the lemon juice and the tea tree oil, followed by the vinegar.
It should go white and a bit cloudy.
Use 2 tbsp per load, or just fill up the dispenser.
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** If you are going to try these natural suggestions, remember you do so at your own – and your dishwasher’s – risk. I have used both of these recipes safely and my dishwasher is still going well, but your warranty will state that you must use approved powders.*
