Making your own laundry detergent pods is an easy way to simplify laundry day while using just a handful of household ingredients. These DIY laundry pods are made with washing soda, baking soda, salt, and a small amount of Sal Suds to create convenient, pre-portioned detergent pods that are ready to toss into the wash.

Unlike liquid detergents that require measuring every load, these homemade pods are already portioned out, making them a practical option for busy households. They’re quick to prepare, inexpensive to make, and can be customized with your favorite essential oils if you enjoy lightly scented laundry.

The combination of washing soda and baking soda helps tackle everyday dirt and odors, while the salt helps absorb moisture so the finished pods dry hard and store well. Sal Suds is a highly concentrated plant-based cleaner, so only a small amount is needed to bind the ingredients together and provide cleaning power.

Whether you’re looking to reduce plastic packaging, save money, or simply enjoy making your own household products, these DIY laundry detergent pods are a fun and practical project. Once they’ve dried completely, simply store them in an airtight container and they’re ready whenever laundry day rolls around.

For households with hard water or heavily soiled laundry, you can easily boost cleaning performance by adding a spoonful of sodium percarbonate directly to the wash.

DIY Detergent Laundry Pods

For this recipe you will need washing soda, baking soda, salt sal suds and essential oils.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the washing soda, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.

If using essential oils, add them to the dry mixture and stir thoroughly to distribute the fragrance evenly.

Slowly drizzle the Sal Suds into the bowl while mixing continuously.

The mixture should resemble damp sand and hold together when squeezed. If needed, add additional Sal Suds one teaspoon at a time until the mixture reaches the proper consistency.

Firmly press the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.

Pack the mixture tightly to help the pods hold their shape once dry.

Allow the pods to air dry for 24–48 hours, or until they are completely hard.

Carefully remove the pods from the molds and transfer them to an airtight container for storage.

How to Use

• Use 1 pod for regular laundry loads.
• Use 2 pods for large or heavily soiled loads.

For homes with hard water or heavily stained laundry, add 1 tablespoon of sodium percarbonate directly to the washing machine for extra cleaning power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is salt added to the recipe?

Salt helps absorb excess moisture, allowing the pods to dry more thoroughly and helping them stay firm during storage.

Can I skip the essential oils?

Yes! Essential oils are completely optional and are primarily used to add fragrance.

What if my mixture is too dry?

Add additional Sal Suds one teaspoon at a time until the mixture holds together when squeezed.

How long do homemade laundry pods last?

When stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, they can last for many months.

Can I use these in an HE washing machine?

Because washing machine manufacturers have different recommendations and homemade detergents haven’t been tested across all machines, check your appliance manual before using homemade laundry products in a high-efficiency (HE) washer.

Related:

• Homemade Laundry Scent Booster (All Natural)
• Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe
• DIY Dryer Sheets with Essential Oils
• Homemade Fabric Softener
• Homemade Stain Remover Stick
• DIY Carpet Deodorizer

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