I decided to finally take the jump and try more homemade cleaners.  I have been using vinegar/water (1:1 ratio) as my all purpose cleaner in the kitchen and bathroom.  Dawn, vinegar, and the "magic wand" have made a major difference as our homemade bathtub cleaner.  It beats the Magic Eraser, Scrubbing Bubbles, and other bathroom cleaners.   Homemade definitely saves lots of money.  This homemade dishwasher detergent cleans just as effectively as Cascade.   I will mention that peanut butter, eggs, and cheese are always my nemesis, regardless of the brand or cost.  Sometimes those food items come clean...and sometimes they don't.  Part of the problem may be that I only run the dishwasher once a day. 

Thanks to Danielle and her recipe for inspiring me to research homemade dishwasher detergents.  Since her recipe was similar to the winner out of six dried oatmeal tests at this site, I opted to try the winning recipe.  I have been very pleased with this DIY dishwasher detergent, especially at just TWO CENTS per load.

Cost and Savings

At just 2¢ a load, compared to 40¢ for store-bought dishwasher detergent, that is big savings if you run your dishwasher daily.  (I am trusting the math from the site above.)

I always thought homemade would mean less effective when it came to cleaners.  Instead, I am finding healthier, effective cleaners and loving it.  The cost savings is definitely a big incentive for us, too.

Update: I have used this homemade dishwasher detergent for about six weeks.  When I had only 3-5 tablespoons/loads of the mixture left, the ratio of borax to washing soda to salt must have become unbalanced.  Suddenly my glasses came out "frosty" instead of clear.  I just wanted to mention this to you in full disclosure.  

What homemade cleaners have you tried?  Be sure to give our DIY bathtub cleaner a try.  It truly works...even on grimy tubs.  Coming soon: Check out my Homemade laundry detergent.  It works fabulously.