Homemade Laundry Detergent

A year ago, a friend mentioned to me about making her own laundry soap.  At the time I wasn't interested in it as much, but recently I decided to give it a try.  I used the recipe found on the Duggar's web-site and have all ready made and used one batch of laundry detergent.  I have been very please with it so far. 
They also have a recipe for making the liquid detergent.  I haven't used that, but it seems that that would be the best value.  Powdered Laundry Detergent makes about 40 scoops per batch while the liquid states that you will have 180 scoops per recipe. 

This is what I found:
1.  My clothes are much softer then they were before.
2.  Didn't notice any other problems like detergent stains etc
3.  Very cost effective.
4.  If you have any stains on your clothes, make sure and treat it before washing.

You have to watch your prices for the product you buy, but if you are interested, take a look around and notate prices.  This is what I found.

Arm and Hammer:  Found at Westlake's Ace Hardware for $4.29 {look on Amazon too.  If you can get free shipping it could be even cheaper!}
Borax:  Found at Hyvee for $3.79
Fels Naptha Bar:  .93 cents at Hyvee {Westlakes had it for $1.59, but I would pick it up elsewhere if cheaper}

Of course prices can change, but if you find these products close to these prices, grab them!  The cost per 40 loads is approximately $2.00= +/-  If you make the liquid detergent, the savings is huge!

Powdered Laundry Detergent - Top load machine

1   Fels-Naptha soap bar
1  Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½  Cup Borax

-Grate soap or break into pieces and process in a food processor until powdered. Mix all ingredients. For light load, use 1 Tablespoon. For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 Tablespoons. Yields: 3 Cups detergent. (Approx. 40 loads)

*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased on-line.  Just find the best deal for your area.  Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!