Homemade Dishwasher Tablets

I first made these homemade dishwasher tablets back in July, during the heatwave. I’d been wanting to try making some of my own household products for a while, and after giving these a go, I’ve been using them ever since.

And the big question is… do they actually work?

Well, I’ve nearly reached the bottom of my dishwasher tablets box, so I think that says something! I’ve found them to work really well for us, and they smell absolutely lovely too.

I’m always interested in finding simple, more natural ways of doing things at home, especially when I can make something myself and know exactly what has gone into it.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

• 1 cup bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)

• 1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate)

• ½ cup citric acid

• ½ cup sea salt

• 20–30 drops lemon essential oil (or another citrus oil, if you prefer)

Equipment

• A mixing bowl

• Spoon or whisk

• Spray bottle filled with water

• Ice cube tray or silicone mould

• Airtight container for storage

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Add the bicarbonate of soda, washing soda, citric acid and sea salt to a mixing bowl.

Give everything a really good mix, making sure the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 2: Add the Essential Oil

Add around 20–30 drops of lemon essential oil and mix thoroughly.

The lemon gives the mixture a lovely fresh smell, although you could experiment with another citrus oil if you prefer.

Step 3: Fill Your Mould

Using a spray bottle filled with water, lightly mist the mixture. You don't want to soak it — just give it a very light spray at a time.

The idea is to make the mixture slightly tacky so that it sticks together and holds its shape.

Give it a gentle mix after spraying and check the consistency. If it still feels too dry and won't hold together, give it another very light spray.

Be careful not to add too much water at once, as the citric acid can start reacting with the other ingredients.

Once the mixture starts holding together, press it firmly into each section of your mould.

Short on Time? You Don't Have to Use a Mould!

If time is of the essence, you can simply mix everything together and place the mixture straight into an airtight container.

Store it somewhere cool and dry, ready to use whenever you need it.

When you're ready to run the dishwasher, simply use 2 scoops of the mixture in your dishwasher instead of making individual tablets.

Easy peasy — no mould, no waiting for tablets to dry, and one less job to do!

Step 4: Let Them Dry

If you've used a mould, leave the tablets somewhere dry and allow them to dry completely. Don't be impatient like me, this was my first failed attempt as I didn't let them dry out fully!

Once they're fully dry and firm, gently pop them out of the mould.

Step 5: Store Your Tablets

Place the finished tablets into an airtight container and store somewhere cool and dry.

It's important to keep the mixture away from moisture, as you don't want the tablets reacting or becoming damp while they're being stored.

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But Do They Actually Work?

This was the bit I was most interested in when I first made them!

I've been using these since July and, for us, they've worked really well. I'm almost at the bottom of the box now, so I'll definitely be making another batch soon.

I also really love the fresh lemony smell.

Of course, everyone's dishwasher is different and results may vary, but I've been really pleased with how they've worked for us. I may even have a little play around with the recipe next time and see what else I can learn.

A Little Note From Me

I'm not an expert in making homemade cleaning products — I'm simply learning as I go.

That's really what The Softer Eco is all about for me: trying simple, traditional and more natural ways of doing things and sharing what I learn along the way.

Some things work brilliantly, some things don't quite go to plan, and sometimes it's simply a case of giving something a go and seeing what happens!

For me, it's about making small changes where I can, knowing a little more about what we're using around our home, and working towards a healthier and more mindful home.

A Few Safety Notes

These dishwasher tablets are not edible and should always be kept away from children and pets.

Essential oils can cause irritation and should not be swallowed. Handle all ingredients carefully and follow the safety guidance provided with the individual ingredients you use.

Dishwasher results can vary depending on your machine, water hardness and other factors. Always follow your dishwasher manufacturer's guidance, and I'd recommend trying homemade products with a normal load rather than valuable or delicate items.

As with anything homemade, use your own judgement and stop using them if you notice any problems with your dishwasher or dishes.

Would I Make Them Again?

Absolutely! 

I've been using them since July, I'm nearly at the bottom of my box, and I'm already planning my next batch.

It's another little homemade experiment that seems to have worked out rather nicely — and I love knowing exactly what went into it.