Like many with sensitive skin, I've grown tired of commercial laundry detergents. They're pricey, loaded with harsh chemicals like solvents, surfactants, optical brighteners, and synthetic fragrances that irritate my skin and harm the environment.
After years of experimenting with natural alternatives, I discovered this standout homemade Marseille soap laundry detergent recipe. It's simple, uses just a few natural ingredients, and delivers exceptional results—economical, effective, and zero-waste.
I've tested and perfected this recipe for homemade Marseille soap detergent. Here's how to make it:
- 2 heaped tablespoons baking soda
- 1 heaped tablespoon soda crystals
- 50 g Marius Fabre Marseille soap bar
- A few drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
- 2 x 500ml water
- 1 liter glass bottle
- 1 pan
- 1 salad bowl (over 500 ml capacity)
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 funnel
- 1 cheese grater
1. Grate the Marseille soap using the cheese grater.
2. Heat 500 ml of water until warm (not boiling).
3. Add the grated soap to the warm water and stir until fully dissolved.
4. In a bowl, add 500 ml room-temperature water.
5. Stir in the baking soda and soda crystals until dissolved.
6. Combine the bowl mixture with the saucepan contents.
7. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon.
8. Funnel the mixture into your glass bottle.
9. Add 4-5 drops of lavender essential oil (optional).
10. Let it rest overnight.
Your homemade Marseille soap detergent is ready! It's quick, easy, and incredibly cost-effective—with just three core ingredients, one batch lasts a full year of laundry. Reusing the same glass bottle means zero plastic waste.
This concentrated formula tackles tough stains gently on fabrics and the planet. Thanks to authentic Marseille soap, a little goes a long way.
Shake well before each use. Add 1-2 tablespoons to your washing machine's drum, adjusting based on load size, soil level, and machine capacity.
Opt for glycerin-free Marseille soap to make it versatile for whites, colors, and even cloth diapers.
- The concentrate may separate or solidify—that's normal for potency. Shake or gently warm to reliquefy.
- Ideal for whites; add sodium percarbonate to the drum for extra whitening on sheets and linens.
- Avoid for delicates like silk—soda crystals are powerful and may damage fragile fibers.
- Stores well for up to 6 months; natural ingredients remain stable.
For hard water, add white vinegar to the softener compartment. It softens fabrics, removes limescale, and protects your machine. Skip for cloth diapers.
Though natural, wear gloves and goggles, and work in a ventilated area to avoid irritation from powders.
- Marseille soap: Time-tested for laundry, hypoallergenic, 100% natural, biodegradable, palm oil-free, with antibacterial properties.
- Baking soda: Boosts cleaning, deodorizes, sanitizes, and shines fabrics without irritation.
- Soda crystals: Cuts limescale and enhances brightness.
- Lavender essential oil: Adds a subtle, fresh scent.
