In the quest to save money, many shoppers turn to “vintage” cleaning hacks passed down from previous generations. One of the most persistent is the idea of making your own laundry “detergent” using a cheese grater, a bar of soap, and Borax. While this was a brilliant money-saver for Grandma’s old top-loading agitator machine, laundry experts warn that using this homemade concoction in a modern High-Efficiency (HE) washer is a recipe for disaster.
The Chemistry Problem: Soap vs. Detergent
The core issue is the difference between soap (what you grate) and detergent. Soap is made from fats and oils. Detergent is a synthetic surfactant designed to rinse away cleanly. Modern HE machines use very little water. When you use grated soap, there isn’t enough water to rinse the sticky fat residue away. Over time, this soap scum builds up inside the internal parts of your machine, trapping dirt and bacteria.
The “Build-Up” Effect on Clothes
Because the homemade soap doesn’t rinse out completely, it stays in your fibers. At first, your clothes might feel soft, but that is actually a layer of soap scum coating the fabric. Over time, this coating traps body oils and dirt, leading to dingy-looking whites and towels that smell musty even after washing. You are essentially waterproofing your clothes with soap curd, making them less absorbent and harder to clean.
Voiding the Warranty
Perhaps the most expensive consequence is the damage to the machine itself. The buildup of soap scum can ruin the sensitive sensors in HE machines that determine water levels and cycle times. It can also clog pumps and hoses. If a technician services your broken washer and finds a tub coated in homemade soap sludge, the manufacturer may void your warranty, leaving you with a costly repair bill that far outweighs the pennies you saved on detergent.
What About Vinegar?
Another common “Grandma hack” is using vinegar in every load as a softener. While vinegar is a great cleaner, using it excessively can degrade the rubber seals and hoses in modern washers, leading to leaks. Experts recommend using it sparingly, not as a daily additive for every single cycle.
The Modern Solution
If you want to save money, skip the grater. The most effective budget strategy is simply using less commercial detergent. Most people use way too much. Modern detergents are highly concentrated; two tablespoons are often enough for a full load. By measuring correctly, a single bottle can last months, offering real savings without wrecking your expensive appliance.
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