Looking for a DIY dishwasher detergent

[supernova]

I'm looking for a make your own dishwasher detergent. I've tried 7th Generation, but it leaves a lot to be desired, even with a rinse agent.

I should also mention that I have hard water.

I know people have posted recipes before for laundry soap, so I wanted to try.

I loved electrasol, worked perfectly but I do want to get away from the phosphates.

[Tansy_Gold]

1. Not to rain on your parade but,

Why not just walk away from the dishwasher altogether and go back to hands in soapy water and a sponge or dishcloth?

Tansy Gold, who has never had "dishwasher" she trusted other than her own two hands.

[supernova]

2. A couple of reasons

Unless a particular handwasher is very unusual, research shows using a dishwasher uses less water than washing dishes by hand. It's more sanitary because the water can be heated more than can be tolerated by flesh. I have a well and try to conserve water as best I can. I asked about the recipe because I wanted to see if I could find a cheaper way to do it with relatively simple ingredients.

I lived with my grandparents who did things by hand because they had to, not because they they thought it was the new in thing. They drew water by hand, plowed fields with hand harnesses and mules. Laundry day consisted of cooking vats of clothes over an outdoor fire. I have no desire to recreate the Victorian/Edwardian age in my life. If something is easier, more efficient, and more healthful, I do it.

[calico1]

3. Here is a site you might like:

http://tipnut.com/homemade-dishwasher-detergent-recipes/

HTH.