As we continue to navigate the world of eco-friendly living and natural cleaning products, many of us are turning to DIY solutions to avoid harsh chemicals and save money. One such solution is making your own Thieves dishwasher soap at home. But how do you get started, and what are the benefits of making your own dishwasher soap? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of making Thieves dishwasher soap, from its origins to the simple recipe that will have you sparkling clean dishes in no time.
The Origins of Thieves Dishwasher Soap
Before we dive into the world of DIY dishwasher soap, it’s essential to understand the origins of Thieves dish soap. Thieves is a line of natural cleaning products created by Young Living, a popular essential oil company. The Thieves line is centered around the concept of using natural ingredients and essential oils to create effective cleaning products that are free from harsh chemicals.
The original Thieves dish soap recipe was created by Gary Young, the founder of Young Living, using a blend of essential oils and natural ingredients. The recipe quickly gained popularity among those seeking a natural alternative to commercial dish soaps. Today, we can adapt this recipe to create our own Thieves dishwasher soap at home.
The Benefits of Making Your Own Dishwasher Soap
So, why should you consider making your own Thieves dishwasher soap? Here are just a few benefits:
Cost-Effective
Making your own dishwasher soap can be a cost-effective solution. Commercial dishwasher soaps can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for natural or eco-friendly options. By making your own soap, you can save money and create a product that’s tailored to your specific needs.
Customizable
When you make your own dishwasher soap, you can customize the recipe to fit your specific needs. Do you have sensitive skin or allergies? You can tailor the recipe to avoid common allergens or irritants. Do you want a stronger or gentler soap? You can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences.
Environmentally Friendly
Making your own dishwasher soap can be an environmentally friendly solution. By using natural ingredients and avoiding harsh chemicals, you’ll reduce your environmental impact. You can also reuse and recycle the packaging materials, further reducing waste.
Effective Cleaning
Perhaps most importantly, making your own Thieves dishwasher soap ensures effective cleaning. The combination of natural ingredients and essential oils creates a powerful cleaning solution that will leave your dishes sparkling clean.
The Recipe: Making Thieves Dishwasher Soap at Home
Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s dive into the recipe itself. Making Thieves dishwasher soap at home is surprisingly simple and requires just a few natural ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 cup borax
- 1/2 cup oxygen bleach (optional)
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 10 drops Thieves essential oil blend (or your preferred essential oil blend)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soap scraps or shredded soap (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the washing soda and borax.
- Add the oxygen bleach (if using) and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the hot water to the bowl, stirring until the mixture forms a thick paste.
- Add the Thieves essential oil blend and stir well.
- Add the white vinegar and stir until the mixture is well combined.
- If desired, add the soap scraps or shredded soap and stir until well distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or ziplock bag.
Tips and Variations
- To customize the recipe, you can adjust the amount of oxygen bleach or essential oils to suit your preferences.
- If you’re using soap scraps or shredded soap, be sure to choose a soap that’s free from harsh chemicals and dyes.
- Consider adding other natural ingredients, such as baking soda or cornstarch, to create a unique blend.
- If you’re new to making your own dishwasher soap, start with a small batch to ensure the recipe works well for you.
Common Questions and Troubleshooting
Q: Can I use this recipe for hand washing dishes?
While this recipe is specifically designed for dishwasher use, you can adapt it for hand washing dishes. Simply add a small amount of the soap mixture to warm water and wash your dishes as usual.
Q: Will this recipe work for high-efficiency dishwashers?
Yes, this recipe is compatible with high-efficiency dishwashers. However, you may need to adjust the amount of soap used depending on your specific dishwasher model.
Q: What if I don’t have Thieves essential oil blend?
While Thieves is a popular essential oil blend, you can substitute it with your preferred essential oil or blend. However, keep in mind that the cleaning properties may vary depending on the essential oil used.
Conclusion
Making your own Thieves dishwasher soap at home is a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for sparkling clean dishes. By adapting the original Thieves recipe, you can create a customized cleaning product that suits your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking to reduce waste, save money, or create a more natural cleaning routine, making your own dishwasher soap is an excellent choice. So why wait? Get started today and experience the benefits of homemade Thieves dishwasher soap for yourself!
What is Thieves Dishwasher Soap and how does it work?
Thieves Dishwasher Soap is a plant-based, eco-friendly dishwashing soap that is designed to effectively clean and sanitize dishes while being gentle on the environment. It is made with a unique blend of natural ingredients, including essential oils, that work together to break down and remove tough food residue and stains.
The soap is specifically formulated to work well in cold water, making it an energy-efficient option for homeowners. Additionally, it is free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances, making it a great choice for families with sensitive skin or allergies. Thieves Dishwasher Soap is also biodegradable and non-toxic, making it a safe choice for septic systems and the environment.
Can I use Thieves Dishwasher Soap in my high-temperature dishwasher?
While Thieves Dishwasher Soap is designed to work well in cold water, it can also be used in high-temperature dishwashers. However, it’s important to note that high heat can cause the soap to dissolve more quickly, which may affect its performance. If you have a high-temperature dishwasher, it’s recommended to use a smaller amount of soap to avoid over-sudsing.
It’s also important to check your dishwasher’s manual to make sure it’s compatible with plant-based soaps like Thieves. Some dishwashers may have specific recommendations or requirements for soap usage, so it’s always a good idea to double-check before making the switch.
How do I make my own Thieves Dishwasher Soap at home?
Making your own Thieves Dishwasher Soap at home is a simple and cost-effective way to keep your dishes clean and your wallet happy. To make your own soap, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, including washing soda, borax, and castile soap. You’ll also need some hot water and a blender or food processor to mix everything together.
To get started, simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix until they’re well combined. Then, add in some hot water and blend until the mixture forms a thick paste. Spoon the paste into an airtight container and let it dry before using it in your dishwasher. You can customize the recipe to your liking by adding different essential oils or fragrances.
Can I use Thieves Dishwasher Soap to hand wash dishes?
While Thieves Dishwasher Soap is specifically designed for use in the dishwasher, it can also be used to hand wash dishes in a pinch. The soap is gentle on skin and the environment, making it a great choice for hand washing delicate or heavily soiled items.
To use Thieves Dishwasher Soap for hand washing, simply mix a small amount of soap with warm water to create a sudsy solution. Then, dip your hands or a soft cloth into the solution and gently scrub the dishes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a towel to prevent water spots.
Is Thieves Dishwasher Soap safe for septic systems?
Yes, Thieves Dishwasher Soap is safe for septic systems. The soap is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it a safe choice for homes with septic systems. It’s also free of harsh chemicals and phosphates, which can harm septic systems over time.
In fact, Thieves Dishwasher Soap is a great choice for homes with septic systems because it’s gentle on the environment and won’t contribute to the buildup of harmful chemicals in the soil or water.
Can I use Thieves Dishwasher Soap in my RV or camper?
Yes, Thieves Dishwasher Soap is a great choice for RVs and campers. The soap is compact and lightweight, making it easy to store in small spaces. It’s also gentle on the environment and won’t harm lakes, rivers, or other waterways.
To use Thieves Dishwasher Soap in your RV or camper, simply follow the instructions on the package and adjust the amount of soap according to the size of your dishwasher and the hardness of the water. You can also use the soap to hand wash dishes in a pinch.
How long does Thieves Dishwasher Soap last?
The length of time that Thieves Dishwasher Soap lasts will depend on several factors, including the size of your dishwasher, how often you use it, and how much soap you use per cycle. On average, a batch of homemade Thieves Dishwasher Soap can last for several months, depending on how often you do dishes.
To make your soap last longer, be sure to use the recommended amount per cycle and avoid over-sudsing. You can also customize the recipe to make a larger or smaller batch, depending on your needs.