What to Use Instead of Laundry Detergent: 7 Effective and Natural Alternatives

Doing laundry is part of everyday life. But sometimes, you might forget to buy detergent, or maybe you want to try something that’s better for your skin and the planet. So, what to use instead of laundry detergent?

Don’t worry—you have options! There are many things you can use that still get your clothes clean. Some are natural, some are DIY, and some are everyday items you already have at home.

In this easy guide, we’ll walk you through what to use instead of laundry detergent. You’ll learn about safe and simple alternatives that work in a pinch—and even help the environment too.

Natural Laundry Alternatives

Let's explore some natural ingredients that can effectively clean your clothes without harsh chemicals.

#1 Baking Soda

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is truly a laundry miracle worker:

• Removes odors rather than masking them
• Softens water for better cleaning
• Gently lifts stains
• Balances pH levels

How to use it: Add 1/2 cup directly to your washing machine along with your clothes. For extra cleaning power, combine with white vinegar (but add the vinegar during the rinse cycle).

Best for: All fabrics, especially smelly gym clothes or musty towels.

#2 White Vinegar

White vinegar works wonders in your laundry:

• Kills bacteria and germs
• Eliminates odors
• Softens fabrics naturally
• Removes soap residue
• Helps preserve colors

How to use it: Add 1/2 cup to the fabric softener compartment or during the rinse cycle. Don't worry—the vinegar smell disappears when clothes dry.

Best for: Most fabrics, but avoid using on acetate or specialty materials that shouldn't be exposed to acids.

#3 Lemon Juice

Lemon juice offers several benefits:

• Naturally brightens whites
• Removes sweat stains and yellowing
• Provides a fresh, clean scent

How to use it: Apply directly to stains before washing for spot treatment. For general brightening, add 1/4 cup to your wash.

Best for: White and light-colored fabrics (avoid using on dark colors as it has mild bleaching properties).

#4 Castile Soap/Soap Flakes

Castile soap is made from vegetable oils (traditionally olive oil) and offers:

• Simple, biodegradable ingredients
• Gentle cleaning action
• Versatility for various cleaning needs

How to use it: Grate bar soap or use liquid castile soap (about 1/4 cup per load).

Best for: Everyday laundry, especially delicate items or hand washing.

#5 Soap Nuts (Soap Berries)

These dried fruits from the Sapindus tree contain natural saponins that create a gentle cleaning action:

• 100% natural and biodegradable
• Low-sudsing and gentle
• Reusable for multiple loads
• Hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin

How to use it: Place 4-5 soap nuts in a small muslin bag and toss in with your laundry. They can be reused for 3-5 loads before composting.

Best for: All fabrics, especially baby clothes or items for people with allergies or skin sensitivities.

 

DIY Laundry Detergent

#6 Powdered Laundry Detergent Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups baking soda
• 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate)
• 1 cup grated castile soap or soap flakes
• 20 drops essential oil (optional, for scent)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients thoroughly
2. Store in an airtight container
3. Use 1-2 tablespoons per load

Note: Use with caution if you have sensitive skin, and always test on a small area first.

#7 Liquid Laundry Detergent Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 bar castile soap, grated
• 1 cup washing soda
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 gallon hot water
• Essential oils (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt grated soap in hot water on the stove
2. Add washing soda and baking soda, stirring until dissolved
3. Pour into a large container and add remaining water
4. Let cool completely before using
5. Shake before each use
6. Use 1/4-1/2 cup per load

 

Advanced Clothing Care: Beyond Cleaning

Reducing Laundry Frequency

Not every worn item needs immediate washing. Consider these guidelines:

• Jeans can go 3-5 wears before washing
• Sweaters and dress shirts might need cleaning after 1-2 wears
• Pajamas can last several nights
• Towels should be washed after 3-4 uses

Washing less frequently saves water, energy, and extends the life of your clothes by reducing wear and tear from the washing machine.

Neakasa Steamer: Your Clothing Companion

When thinking about what to use instead of laundry detergent, it’s not just about getting clothes clean. Clothes can also get wrinkled, smelly, or dusty after wearing or storing them. That’s why it helps to have a tool that keeps clothes looking fresh—without using chemicals.

The Neakasa Magic 1 vacuum steamer is a smart, easy way to take care of your clothes. It uses steam to smooth out wrinkles fast, without needing an iron. Plus, it has a special vacuum feature that pulls out extra moisture, so your clothes dry faster and don’t get water spots.

Let’s say you just washed your clothes with natural detergent alternatives, like baking soda or vinegar. After air drying, you notice a few wrinkles. That’s where the Magic 1 steamer comes in—it gently refreshes your clothes with only steam. No chemicals, no damage—just a clean, smooth look.

Even better, the steam helps kill germs and remove dust mites. It also gets rid of odors, so you can wear your clothes again without washing them right away. This saves water, energy, and helps your clothes last longer.

 

Conclusion

Switching to natural laundry alternatives isn’t just about avoiding harsh chemicals. It’s also about taking better care of your clothes—and the planet. These simple methods have been around for a long time because they work. They’re gentle, safe, and better for the environment.

You don’t have to change everything overnight. Start small. Try adding a little vinegar to the rinse cycle, or mix some baking soda with a smaller amount of your usual detergent. As you get more comfortable, you can try making your own detergent or using something like soap nuts.

Taking this step-by-step approach makes it easier to find what works best for you. Over time, you might discover that natural methods not only clean well but also help your clothes last longer and feel better.