Momma J’s Guide to Sparkling Dishes: Save Big with Homemade Dishwasher Soap

Hey there, friends!

Homesteading isn’t just about growing and raising your own food—it’s about finding smart ways to save money and take care of your home. One of my favorite ways to cut costs without cutting corners is by making my own household essentials, like this amazing dishwasher soap.

This recipe keeps my dishes sparkling clean and works just as well as the pricey store-bought stuff—without relying on any harsh chemicals. It’s simple to make, easy to use, and gentle on everything from your dishes to your dishwasher.

Why I Love Making My Own Dishwasher Soap

1. Save Money: Buying dishwasher soap adds up, especially if you run your dishwasher daily like we do. This DIY version costs a fraction of what you’d spend on name brands.

2. Gentle and Effective: No harsh chemicals here—just ingredients you can trust to get the job done.

3. Easy to Make: You only need a few basic ingredients and a few minutes to whip this up.

Momma J’s Homemade Dishwasher Soap

What You’ll Need

1 cup washing soda – Fights grease and softens water to help clean dishes thoroughly.

1 cup baking soda – Adds cleaning power and keeps your dishwasher fresh.

½ cup citric acid – Perfect for cutting through residue and preventing water spots.

½ cup kosher salt – Helps prevent buildup and leaves your dishes spotless.

10-15 drops of essential oils (optional) – Lemon or orange oils are my go-to for a fresh, clean scent.

How to Make It

1. Combine the washing soda, baking soda, citric acid, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Mix well until evenly blended.

2. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a light, natural fragrance (optional). Stir to combine.

3. Store your soap in an airtight container to keep it fresh and dry.

How to Use It

Use 1-2 tablespoons per load in your dishwasher’s detergent compartment.

For sparkling, spot-free results, fill your rinse aid compartment with white vinegar.

Momma J’s Tips for Success

If you have hard water, increase the citric acid slightly for even better cleaning.

Don’t overload your dishwasher—this soap works best when dishes have room to rinse properly.

Need an extra boost? Sprinkle a bit of baking soda directly on extra-dirty dishes before running the cycle.

This dishwasher soap has become a staple in my home. It’s simple, effective, and fits perfectly into our homestead lifestyle. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about knowing you made it yourself! Give it a try and let me know how it works for you.

As always, stay rooted in tradition and crafted for wellness.

Love and clean dishes,

Momma J