But first....Why I Will Never Add Fragrance—Not Even “Natural” types:
I know firsthand how harmful even the subtlest scents can be—not just for sensitive humans, but for our cats and dogs. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from essential oils are not a safer alternative—they’re just as likely to harm pets (especially cats!) and make life a challenge for those of us with allergies, asthma, migraines, or environmental sensitivities.

If you would like to read an expert's opinion on the dangers of essential oils, please visit April Graham’s beautifully honest article, “Why I’m Essential Oil Free,” which powerfully explains why even well-meaning “natural” scent is not universally safe or needed.  And by the way, April is a true blue herbalist, so coming from her, this information should be even more meaningful!

Why Most Recipes Miss the Mark:
Almost every so-called “pet safe,” “natural,” or “DIY” laundry detergent recipe you find online will encourage you to add essential oils. Even if it’s just a drop for "freshness,” or as an “optional” step.  The cultural pressure to add fragrance to everything is relentless. But we know that truly "clean" and "fresh" means no scent at all.

After endless searching, studying, and years of making laundry detergents for my own use, here’s what I’ve learned:  You don’t need complex ingredients or questionable additives. You just need a few basics.  That said, here are a couple of recipes that you can try if you like:

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Recipe # 1:

•     1/2 cup Epsom Salt (make sure it does not contain fragrance!)

•     1  1/2 cups Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda)

•     1  1/2 cups Sodium Carbonate (washing soda)

•     1/4 cup Sea Salt

 

Recipe # 2:

•     1 bar unscented Castile soap (such as Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented)  

•     1 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate, not baking soda)

•     1 cup baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

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Instructions:

•    Mix all ingredients together, making sure to blend well and break up any clumps.

•    Store mixed detergent in glass jars with well fitting lids.  

•    Try using 1 -2 heaping tablespoon per average load and 2-3 heaping                           tablespoons for extra large or very dirty loads, and adjust amount based on your       experience in washing your pets items as well as your own laundry.

•    I always do a double rinse, for good measure.     

 

Note:  It's advised to always test yourself and your pets for allergies to any new products

or ingredients that you try.