Homemade Laundry Soap

I visited my cousin in Ohio last weekend and she was drying out some Zote.  I had no idea what that was so I asked her and she said it was for her homemade laundry detergent.  Now I had made my own a few years back but I used Fels Napa soap in making it and didn't really like the smell (or the non smell) it left on the clothes.  So I decided to try some of her concoction today and make my own.  

I am making just a small amount to see if I like it and to keep in a Mason Jar in the laundry room.


1 Cup Zote Soap
1/2 Cup Borax
1/2 Cup Arm and Hammer Washing Soda


The Zote I found at our local grocery store by the Borax.  I grated the Zote with a cheese grater and am letting it sit out to dry and I mixed the other ingredients into a Jar and it will be ready to use tomorrow.  I'm excited about this.  Like I said I really enjoyed it when I made my own before I just also like the smell of my clothes.  I love the idea of making my own things like this not only for the money it will save in the long run (it turns out to be about .03 cents a load) but also I like the feeling I get knowing I am becoming more self sufficient.  I know it is better for my skin, budget and environment.  I mean think of how many laundry containers it will save!  I can't help but still use the Downey though.  I need the sweet smell to my clothes but maybe I can find an alternative to that too.