Home-Made Fabric Softener

This is not purely 'natural', but it's very cost efficient if you are on a tight budget, and if you have some essential oils, you can scent it the way you like!

1 c. hair conditioner (stuff from the dollar store is fine)
1-1/2 c. white vinegar
3 c. water
3 t. essential or fragrance oil

In a pot, start to heat your water. Pour in the hair conditioner and whisk it in, then whisk in your white vinegar. Now you can add your essential or fragrance oil to your liking - just be sure it is one that is safe on skin and is not going to trigger any allergies.

Home-Made Laundry Soap Powder

I love this because not only does it clean, it leaves cottons very soft. You can add bleach or oxy-cleaners, or double up the amount for very soiled clothing.

1 bar soap, finely grated
1-1/2 c. washing soda
1-1/2 c. Borax

Mix the two powders well, then rub the soap in and break up the gratings until they are very fine (or just run through your food processor), and mix the soap into the rest of the powder. Use 1 tablespoon for each load. If washing darks, you might want to dissolve it into a cup of hot water before adding to the cold water in your machine.

Orange Sesame Salad Dressing

1/2 cup orange marmalade

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon ginger

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 cup rice or apple cider vinegar

2/3 cup vegetable oil

2 tablespoons soy sauce

3 tablespoons sesame oil

2 tablespoons honey

Blenderize it all...it's yum!