A formulation for creating laundry detergent at home involves combining ingredients such as washing soda (sodium carbonate), borax (sodium borate), and soap flakes. The exact proportions of each element vary according to desired strength, scent preference, and type of washing machine, but it usually results in a powdery substance designed to clean clothing in a washing machine. For example, a common combination includes equal parts washing soda, borax, and grated bar soap.
Formulating detergents at home presents an opportunity to control the ingredients and reduce exposure to certain chemicals present in commercial products. It also may offer a cost-effective alternative and contributes to a reduction in plastic packaging waste. Historically, such formulations were commonplace before the widespread availability of commercially manufactured detergents and represented a method of resourcefulness.