Before You Get Started: What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 2 5-oz castile soap bars – Cleans, removes dirt and grime, fights against stains, and freshens. Castile soap is a plant-based, concentrated soap. It’s the best option for making your own laundry detergent. Dr. Bronner’s brand is easy to find in the grocery store (body/beauty aisle) and has over 20 uses. I also use castile soap to make liquid laundry detergent. 
• 3 cups washing soda – Boosts the power and effectiveness of the soap, helping to remove stains and eliminate odors. Also called “soda ash.”
• 2 cups borax – Laundry softener and water conditioner. Boosts the cleaning power of the soap, removes odors, and fights tough stains. 
• 30 drops essential oil of choice (Optional) – For a subtle scent. My favorite essential oils for homemade laundry soap are orange, lemon, eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint. (How to use essential oils for natural cleaning) 

Equipment

• Food Processor – To grate the castile soap bars. Alternatively, use a cheese grater and a large bowl.
• Storage Container – Choose a storage container holding at least 6 cups of dry powder.

How to Make Homemade Laundry Powder Detergent: Recipe Steps

• Step 1 Cut & Grate Soap Bars – Cut the castile soap bars into small slices or chunks using a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board. Place the castile soap pieces in the food processor bowl. Pulse the soap on high until the soap resembles large crumbs (about 1 minute). If you don’t have a food processor, use a cheese grater and a large bowl.
• Step 2 Add Washing Soda & Pulse – Add 3 cups of washing soda to the food processor. Place a towel over the top of the food processor lid and pulse for 1 minute. After pulsing, the ingredients should be well combined. If you don’t have a food processor, stir the washing soda with the grated soap in a large bowl.
• Step 3 Pour Into Storage Container & Add Borax – Pour the combined washing soda and grated soap into a storage container, stir in 2 cups of borax (or seal the lid on the container after adding the borax and shake the container to combine). 
• Step 4 Add Fragrance – If desired, add your favorite essential oil or a couple of essential oils to create a custom scent blend. Stir to combine (or shake the container with the lid on).

The detergent is now ready to use. Read on to learn how to use the detergent for the freshest, cleanest laundry.

Watch & Follow My Video Tutorial For This Recipe

How to Use DIY Laundry Detergent For Top Loaders, Front Loaders, & HE Machines​

• For Top-Load Washing Machines –  Add ⅛ cup of laundry powder per load directly to the washer basin/drum, then add linens or clothes. Close the lid on the washer and turn on the wash cycle of choice.
• For Front-Loaders and High-Efficiency Washing Machines – Add 1 tablespoon of laundry powder per load to the washer basin/drum, then add linens or clothes. Close the lid on the washer and turn on the wash cycle of choice.
• Adding Fabric Softener – If you want to use fabric softener, add the liquid softener (vinegar is a great option) to the softener compartment of the washing machine. If you’re using a powder softener (like this salt fabric softener), add the powder (and homemade soap) directly to the washer basin/drum, then add fabrics and wash. 

What Temperature Water Should I Use? 

• Cold Water Setting is Best – Most laundry detergents and soaps require water that is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit to work (this is true for both homemade and conventional laundry detergents). The good news is that when you use the cold water setting in your washer, it’s usually a mix of hot and cold water. Hence, the water temperature reaches the ideal 60 degrees needed for a detergent to work correctly. For this reason, you can use the cold water setting without issue for both my liquid soap and this powder recipe. 
• Colored Fabrics – The cold water setting is always best for colored fabrics. 
• Sanitize Sheets & Towels – If you’d like to sanitize sheets, towels, and bed linens, use this laundry powder and the hot water setting. 

Storage & Shelf Life

• Store the powder for up to 12 months in a sealed container.
• Store at room temperature.

How to Prevent Soap Residue on Clothes

• Avoid The Laundry Soap Dispenser – Add powder laundry detergent directly to the washing machine basin/drum. Do NOT add the powder to the laundry soap dispenser. Adding the clothes directly to the washing machine and then adding the clothes on top will ensure that water reaches the powder and dissolves it without getting caught in the folds of clothing and linens, which can leave a residue on clothing. 
• Try the Laundry Soap Dispenser in Certain Machines- Every washing machine differs. If adding the powder directly to the wash basin/drum isn’t working, try adding the laundry soap to the dispenser. Some machines have a small drawer where you can move from liquid to powder, which is specifically made to help circulate the powder during the wash cycle. 
• Soften Hard Water – Castile soap can leave a residue on dark fabrics if you have hard water, even after trying the tricks above. The borax in the recipe helps to soften water and should eliminate residue issues. The case may be hard water if you still have soap residue issues. You can try using an additional water softener (like white vinegar or a salt solution).

Essential Oil Blends For a Clean Scent

The best part about this recipe is that you can customize it to create your scent. Essential oils, a natural fragrance, offer a lovely, clean scent without the harsh chemicals and scent additives.

Here are a few of my favorite essential oil combos to create various scents (use 15 drops of each). Of course, you can also use individual essential oils, like lavender, orange, or lemon to create a fresh scent.

• Orange & Lemon 
• Eucalyptus & Lemon 
• Peppermint & Orange
• Rosemary & Peppermint
• Learn how to use essential oils and make homemade cleaners in this article. And listen to my in-depth podcast about using essential oils safely in the home.

FAQ

• Can I use the fels-naptha bar instead of the castile soap bar? Yes, you can. Use 2 bars fels naptha bars, grate in the food processor (or use a cheese grater and bowl), then add the remaining ingredients. 
• Can I use an ivory soap bar instead of the castile soap? Yes, some recipes online use ivory soap bars instead of castile soap. I haven’t tried this substitution option, but you can test it. 
• Can I use baking soda instead of washing soda? No, baking soda and washing soda have two different chemical compositions. You’ll need to use washing soda to make the best product. Washing soda is also called soda ash (source). 
• Is it safe to use the same food processor used to make food to grate the soap? Yes, it is. Just wash the food processor well with soap and water after use. 
• Does this recipe work with hard water? Yes, it does. See my tips above under “How to Prevent Soap Residue on Clothes” to learn more about hard water and this detergent.
• Does this recipe work in a high-efficiency washer? Yes, it does. Add the soap directly to the washer basin/drum, then add clothes and wash. Use 1 tablespoon of powder per load and the cold water setting.
• Can I make this recipe without borax? For a borax-free laundry powder, make this recipe.

More Natural Products For Clean Laundry

• Stain Remover Spray – Remove tough stains with this simple formula made with castile soap, hydrogen peroxide, and lemon essential oil. 
• Wool Dryer Balls – Soften laundry naturally with these easy-to-make wool dryer balls—a great alternative to dryer sheets. Add a few drops of essential oils to boost the scent in the dryer. 
• Liquid Laundry Detergent – Combine castile soap, borax, washing soda, and water to make my popular liquid laundry soap. 
• Powder Laundry Detergent – Make a powder variation of my popular liquid laundry soap using this simple recipe.
• Laundry Softener – Use vinegar to make this simple liquid laundry detergent.  

Key Takeaways

• Simple Ingredients – The 2 key ingredients you’ll need are kosher salt, sea salt, or Epsom salt and essential oil.
• Natural – Most commercial laundry boosters (like Mrs. Meyers) are made with artificial fragrances and toxic chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin (source). This laundry booster recipe is 100% natural.
• Great Smell – Use your favorite essential oils to make a simple homemade recipe smell amazing.
• DIY Fabric Softener – This recipe adds a fresh scent to laundry and softens laundry (thanks to the salt). 
• Quick & Easy to Make– This simple DIY recipe takes less than 5 minutes. 
• Shelf Life – Store the natural scent booster for up to 12 months. 

Before You Get Started: What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 4-5 cups coarse salt – Sea salt, kosher, or Epsom salt are the best type of salt. The salt works as a carrier to carry the essential oil (the scent) to your laundry and also softens laundry (particularly important if you have hard water). I buy a 3lb box of coarse salt from Costco or the grocery store for about $3-4.
• 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite essential oil (100-200 drops) – This is the most crucial ingredient for making your scent booster. Choose your favorite essential oil or combine 2-3 essential oils to create a beautiful blend. I love lavender essential oil, peppermint, sweet orange, lemon, or lemongrass for laundry.

Equipment

• Large Bowl – For mixing the salt and essential oil(s). 
• Large Spoon – Also used for mixing the salt and essential oil(s). A large wooden cooking spoon or fork (for whisking) works well. 
• Large Storage Container – Something to store the laundry booster. Think about something that will allow you to easily pour the scented salt into the washing machine or a jar that will enable you to scoop the mixture from the jar. 

How to Make a Laundry Scent Booster: Recipe Steps

• Step 1 Add Salt & Essential Oil – Pour the salt into a large bowl. Then, add the essential oil. 
• Step 2 Combine – Using a spoon, mix the salt and essential oil with a spoon or whisk. 
• Step 3 Spoon into a Storage Container – Spoon the mixture into a container with a lid (like a wide glass jar). For best results, I let the mixture rest for 24 hours, allowing the essential oil to infuse the salt. After 24 hours, the scent booster is ready for your laundry routine. 
• Pro Tip for Combining the Essential Oil & Salt – If mixing the salt and oil in a bowl is difficult, pour the ingredients into a large plastic bag. Seal the bag and use your fingers (from the outside) to massage the ingredients and combine. 

How much should I use for the best smelling laundry?

• 1/2 Cup Per Load – Add 1/2 cup of scented salt per load. Add directly to the washing machine with clothes, sheets, towels, etc. For HE machines, you may want to try 1/4 cup.
• Adjust to Your Preference – This will vary on your water, so test different amounts to see what works best for you. 
• Add Directly to Washer – The salt should be added to the washer at the same time as the laundry soap. Add the salt directly to the washer basin with the clothes.

Essential Oil Blends For a Clean Scent

The best part about this recipe is that you can customize it to create your own scent.

Essential oils, a natural fragrance, don’t have the long-lasting scent found in most commercial scent boosters, but they offer a lovely, clean scent without the harsh chemicals and scent additives.

Here are a few of my favorite essential oil combos to create various scents. Use 1/2 teaspoon of each individual oil (about 50 drops).

• Orange & Lemon 
• Eucalyptus & Lemon 
• Peppermint & Orange
• Rosemary & Peppermint

Learn how to use essential oils and make homemade cleaners in this article. And listen to my in-depth podcast about using essential oils safely in the home.

What to Avoid Doing

• Laundry Softener Compartment – Don’t add the salt to the laundry softener compartment of the washing machine. The salt should be added directly to the washer along with the garments. 
• Delicates – Don’t use this booster on delicate items like silk and other garments that require special care. 
• Fine Salt – Don’t use fine salt to make this recipe. Choose a salt with large, coarse granules for best results.

FAQs

• How much of the softener/scent do I need the add per load? I recommend 1/2 cup of salt per load. For HE machines, you may want to try 1/4 cup.
• Can I add baking soda? Yes, you can add baking soda to this recipe. Instead of using 4-5 cups of salt, use 3 cups of salt + 1 cup of baking soda. Baking soda neutralizes odors, so this is an excellent formulation for stinky clothes (like workout clothes, sports uniforms, etc.)
• Is any kind of salt okay? Yes, any kind of large granule course salt.
• Can I make a homemade scent booster without salt? Yes, you can. Use all baking soda mixed with the essential oil. However, I’ve found that using all baking soda may leave a white film on clothes. So I recommend something other than this combination for dark-colored garments. 
• Is it safe to use salt in the washing machine? Yes, I haven’t had any issues with using salt in my washing machine. If you’re concerned, reduce the amount used.
• Do you use this salt fabric softener/scent booster with vinegar or is it one or the other? No, choose one. Both this recipe and vinegar act as a fabric softener, so I recommend sticking to one option: either salt or vinegar.
• Does the scented salt go in the rinse water? I add the scent booster salts with the clothes/towels before turning on the wash.
• Do you know how it will work in a HE front loader? Yes, it will. For a front loader start off with 1/4 cup of salt per load. Add the scent booster directly to the washer, along with the clothes, before turning on the cycle.

More Natural Products For Clean Laundry

Here are my favorite homemade products to use in the laundry room.

• Stain Remover Spray – Remove tough stains with this simple formula made with castile soap, hydrogen peroxide, and lemon essential oil. 
• Wool Dryer Balls – Soften laundry naturally with these easy-to-make wool dryer balls—a great alternative to dryer sheets. Add a few drops of essential oils to boost the scent in the dryer. 
• Liquid Laundry Detergent – Combine castile soap, borax, washing soda, and water to make my popular liquid laundry soap. 
• Powder Laundry Detergent – Make a powder variation of my popular liquid laundry soap using this simple recipe.
• Laundry Softener – Use vinegar to make this simple liquid laundry detergent.  

Key Takeaways

• Natural Ingredients – No more buying that expensive lip scrub at the store. This natural lip scrub only takes 2 minutes and is made with simple ingredients: cane sugar (or brown sugar), honey, and oil (olive oil or coconut oil). 
• Smoother Skin – Exfoliation is the key to keeping healthy, smooth lips during winter. Exfoliating weekly scrubs away dead skin cells living behind softer, kissable lips.  
• How Much This Recipe Makes – This recipe makes 4 ounces of lip balm. You can divide this between four 1-ounce lip balm containers or make one 4-ounce jar. 
• Flavor Options – Why not make a lip scrub that also tastes amazing? Add cinnamon, vanilla extract, or peppermint essential oil for a delicious and natural flavoring. 
• Shelf Life – This simple recipe makes a minimal amount of scrub. Make small batches (per the recipe) or a larger batch (tripling the recipe) and store at room temperature in a small container for up to 3 months. 

Before you get started: What You’ll Need

• 1 teaspoon cane sugar or brown sugar – Sugar is the perfect natural scrub texture for lips, dry hands, or body scrub. Brown sugar is super soft, perfect for sensitive skin, and easier to apply as a scrub. Cane sugar is coarser (than brown sugar) and is fantastic for exfoliation. 
• 1/4 teaspoon honey – Honey is a natural nourishing agent that hydrates the skin and exfoliates. Honey contains antioxidants and natural healing properties and may help repair chapped lips and stressed-out skin (source). I also use honey to make a soothing lip balm. 
• 1/4 teaspoon carrier oil – Oil is used as a moisturizing and main ingredient to make the product scrubbable. Use organic coconut oil (in the cooking section), jojoba, sweet almond, or olive oil. 

Optional Extras for Flavoring

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg
• 2 drops pure vanilla extract
• 1 drop peppermint or lavender essential oil

How to make a DIY Lip Scrub Recipe

• Step 1 Combine Ingredients – Stir the sugar, honey, oil, and desired flavorings in a small bowl. At first, it’ll seem like there’s not enough moisture to get everything to combine, but keep mashing—you’ll end up with a thick paste. If you’re using coconut oil, melt it first in the microwave so it’s liquid. 
• Step 2 Apply on Lips or Store – The scrub is ready to use as soon it’s made. Use it immediately (my recipe makes enough for 1 application). Or triple the recipe and spoon into an airtight container. Store at room temperature and use once a week. 

How to Use This Natural Lip Scrub for Soft Lips 

Now that you have a homemade lip scrub, it’s time to use it. Here’s how to use this lip exfoliator to create the healthiest, softest lips.

• Step 1 Spoon on Fingers – Take a small amount of the scrub onto your finger. While leaning over a sink (to catch the fall out), massage the sugary mixture into your lips, buffing off any dry skin.
• Step 2 Rinse – Once your lips feel sufficiently scrubbed, rinse away the scrub remnants with some warm water. 
• Step 3 Moisturize – Follow up with some lip balm (like this shea butter lip balm, easy-to-customize lip balm, honey lip balm, or lanolin lip balm) and enjoy your freshly polished lips!

What to Avoid Doing

• Don’t Over Exfoliate – While this recipe is popular during the cooler months, you may also use it in the warmer months. Just be careful not to overuse it. 1-2 times a week is a great way to keep lips healthy and smooth.
• Don’t Use Coarse Sugar – Choose a soft sugar, like granulated sugar, brown sugar, or cane sugar. Do NOT use coarse sugar granules like Sugar in the Raw or coconut sugar.
• Don’t Use on Broken Skin – If your lips are severely chapped with broken skin, don’t use this easy recipe. This will only cause pain and can cause more damage to your dry lips. Allow your lips to heal before using sugar scrubs or any exfoliator. 

FAQS

• Can I use any oil to make this recipe? ​Yes, just about. Any skin-friendly oil will work. If the oil is solid, like coconut oil, melt it before mixing it with sugar. 
• Can I double or triple this recipe? Yes, you can. This recipe makes a tiny batch, enough for one use. If you’d like to make a larger batch and store it, triple or even quadruple the recipe. Store in an airtight container. 
• How long does this recipe last? It is up to 3 months at room temperature in an airtight container. Always be safe and avoid if the scrub develops a funky odor or shows signs of mold growth. Learn how to make homemade beauty products safely. 
• Can I add essential oils? Yes, you can. You’ll need a drop. Peppermint and lavender are my favorite essential oils. Remember, some oils may be more irritating when applied to the skin. Always research before adding an essential oil to your skincare products, particularly something that comes in contact with your mouth. 

Before You Get Started: What You’ll Need

You’ll also find the full recipe, instructions, and links for my favorite ingredient brands in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons shea butter – provides the critical moisturizing relief my lips crave in the drier months. Rich in fatty acids, vitamin E, and ultra-moisturizing properties. Alternatively, cocoa butter (hydrating and rich in vitamin E, chocolatey scent) or mango butter (rich in fatty acids, ultra-moisturizing) are great substitutes. 
• 2 tablespoons carrier oil – nourishes and provides extra moisture for the skin. My favorite oil options are sweet almond, olive, sunflower, avocado, jojoba, and coconut oil. 
• 2-3 teaspoons beeswax pellets – the glue that holds the oil and body butter together and creates a solid product. The wax also provides a protective barrier to the skin and may also help to soothe the skin.
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid lanolin – This natural ingredient is extracted from sheep’s wool. It protects the skin’s natural barrier and locks in moisture. Lanolin may also be substituted with vitamin E oil. 
• 5-10 drops of essential oils (optional) – peppermint or lavender are great choices for lip balm. The essential oil adds a lovely scent and flavor.

Equipment

• Small saucepan – creates a double boiler by adding water to the saucepan and placing a heat-safe bowl on top to protect the oil and butter from burning. 
• Small or medium heat-safe bowl or tall measuring cup (glass or metal)- to create a double boiler and melt the ingredients. I’ve found that a glass measuring cup that can sit in the small saucepan (above) works best as it has a spout for pouring the melted wax into lip balm tubes. Other options include a glass bowl or metal mixing bowl; however, they are more challenging to use if you’re making lip balm tubes, as they need a spout for pouring. 
• Lip balm containers – This recipe will make four 1-ounce tubes or tins or one 4-ounce jar. You’re welcome to use tins, tubes, or cosmetic jars for this recipe. 

How to Make Lanolin Lip Balm: Step-by-Step Guide

• Step 1 Combine Shea Butter & Beeswax – Combine the shea butter and beeswax in a glass bowl.
• Step 2 Melt Ingredients – Place the glass bowl on top of a saucepan partially filled with water over medium heat. Heat until the beeswax melts, stirring occasionally.
• Step 3 Add Oil, Lanolin, and Essential Oil – Turn off the heat and remove the bowl from the pot. Add the carrier oil, lanolin, and essential oil.
• Step 4 Pour – Place a towel on a surface, then place the lip balm container on the towel (this will protect your surface). Pour the mixture into lip balm containers and sit for a few minutes until formed. The lip balm will set as the mixture cools, so working quickly during this step is essential. 

Application Tip: Apply as needed to the lips. May be used daily and multiple times a day. I love to use this lip scrub once a week during the winter as well.

How Long Will This Lip Balm Last? 

Homemade lip balm will last about 12 months—store at temperature. 

How Much Lip Balm Does This Recipe Make?

This recipe makes 4 ounces of the final product. Divide the lip balm between four 1-oz small jars or tubes, two 2-oz tins or small jars, or one larger 4-ounce tin. 

How to Make Moisturizing Vegan Lip Balm 

To make this basic lip balm vegan, you must substitute two animal-based ingredients: beeswax and lanolin. 

• Beeswax Substitute: Instead, use a plant-based wax, like soy wax, carnauba wax, or candelilla. 
• Lanolin Substitute: Instead, vitamin E oil. 

What to Avoid Doing

• Don’t Use “Hot” Essential Oils – Some essential oils can irritate the skin and cause the skin to feel an uncomfortable burning sensation. Avoid “hot oils” such as cinnamon, clove, oregano, thyme, and lemongrass.
• Citrus Oils – ​ Citrus oils, like sweet orange or lemon essential oil, are photosensitive and can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Skip these oils if you’ll be in the sun a lot.
• Don’t Add the Essential Oils When Melting The Ingredients – Essential oils quickly evaporate when exposed to high temperatures. Wait until the ingredients have melted and are away from the heat source before adding the essential oil. 

How to Prevent Grainy Lip Balm 

Lip balm made with shea butter can (on some occasions) turn gritty or grainy. While the lip balm is still usable, the final product can feel funny on your lips when applied. Here’s how to prevent a grainy final product, which is particularly of concern during the warmer months (since your home isn’t as cold): 

1. Cool in Fridge – Place the lip balm in the fridge after pouring it into your tins or tubes. 
2. Slow Melt – If you find this issue still occurs, next time, melt the shea butter first over low heat in the glass bowl (double boiler set up) before adding the other ingredients for 15-20 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients and proceed with the steps. This slower, longer melt can also help reduce the grainy texture issue.

FAQs

• How can I add a pop of color to this recipe? I’ve experimented with different natural colorings, like beetroot powder, hibiscus powder, and even cocoa powder, but I have yet to succeed with any of these ingredients. The best way to color organic lip balm is to use colored mica powder (about 3/4 teaspoon). Here’s a tutorial on how to do that.
• Can I add honey to this recipe? You can add honey to lip balm, but this recipe is different. Instead, follow this honey lip balm recipe for the exact measurements and steps.
• Will the lip balm melt when it’s hot outside? The lip balm shouldn’t melt when hot outside, even if kept in your car. It will soften in high temperatures (like the car in the summer), but it shouldn’t melt. 
• How can I make this recipe harder or softer? If you add too much wax, you’ll end up with a very hard lip balm; too little wax and you’ll get a very soft lip balm. If this issue occurs, next time, add more wax if the lip balm is too soft for your liking. Add more oil if the lip balm is too hard for your liking.

Before you get started: What You’ll Need

Ingredients 

• 1 tablespoons carrier oil – nourishes and moisturizes the skin. My favorite oil options are sweet almond, olive, sunflower, avocado, jojoba, and virgin coconut oil. 
• 2 teaspoons beeswax pellets – the glue that holds the oil and shea butter together and creates a solid product. Beeswax, a natural ingredient thanks to hard-working bees, provides a protective barrier to the skin and may help soothe it. 
• 1/2 teaspoon shea butter – provides the moisturizing relief my lips crave in the drier fall and winter months.
• 1/4 teaspoon honey – Honey is a natural humectant (hydrating for the skin). Honey also contains antioxidants, which may help repair chapped lips and stressed-out skin.
• (OPTIONAL) 3 drops of essential oils – I like peppermint oil, which adds a warm scent and flavor. Another great option is a warm vanilla essential oil.  

Equipment  

• small saucepan – used to create a double boiler with a bowl to melt the ingredients. 
• small heat-safe bowl – this can be glass or metal and should be large enough to rest on the saucepan to melt the ingredients. I’ve found that a glass measuring cup that sits in the saucepan (and the water added to the saucepan) works best as it has a spout for pouring the melted wax into lip balm tubes. 
• large bowl – partially filled with cold water. You’ll use this bowl to cool the lip balm ingredients after melting and before adding the honey. 
• 1 ounce lip balm container

How to Make Honey Lip Balm: Step By Step Guide

• Step 1 Combine Ingredients – Combine the oil, beeswax, and shea butter in a small heat-safe bowl. 
• Step 2 Melt Ingredients – Now place the bowl on top of the saucepan partially filled with water over medium heat. Heat the mixture until the beeswax melts, stirring occasionally. Fill a larger bowl with cold water. I place a few ice cubes (3-4) in the water. Set this bowl aside for later. While the ingredients melt, fill a large bowl 1/4 of the way full with ice water. Set this bowl aside for step 4. 
• Step 3: Remove Ingredients From Heat – Remove the mixture from the heat once the ingredients melt. Let the bowl rest away from the heat for just a minute. I place a hot pad holder on the counter to create a heat-safe surface for the bowl to rest. 
• Step 4: Cool the Lip Balm Rapidly – Place the bowl with the melted lip balm mixture in the bowl, in a more giant bowl filled half a 1/4 way full with ice water. This step rapidly cools the mixture so the honey may be added without separating from the other ingredients. The rapid cooling will also prevent a gritty lip balm, which can happen to shea butter. The mixture will begin to solidify as it cools. Pour in the honey, add the essential oil (if using), and stir to combine.
• Step 4 Spoon into a Container – Spoon the solidified mixture into a container. I used a 1-ounce metal container. Alternatively, you could use a mini Altoids container. This recipe will make about 1 ounce. The result will be a smooth, soft, spreadable lip product with the most gorgeous yellow color. 

Application Tip: Apply as needed to the lips. May be used daily and multiple times a day. I love to use this lip scrub once a week during the winter as well.

Watch My Step-By-Step Recipe Video

How Long Will This Lip Balm Last?

• Shelf Life – This recipe will last for 6-8 months. My other lip balm recipes last 12 months (like this shea butter lip balm and this 3-ingredient recipe). 
• Shorter Life Span – This honey lip balm could also last 12 months; however, since it’s stored in a tin and you’ll use your finger to apply it (dipping it in the container), I’ve shortened the shelf life.

How Much Lip Balm Does This Recipe Make? 

This recipe makes 1 ounce of lip balm. You’re welcome to make a larger amount (4 ounces or more), and I share how to do this in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

What to Avoid Doing

• Don’t Use “Hot” Essential Oils – Some essential oils can irritate the skin and cause the skin to feel an uncomfortable burning sensation. Avoid “hot oils” such as cinnamon, clove, oregano, thyme, and lemongrass.
• Citrus Oils – ​ Citrus oils, like sweet orange or lemon essential oil, are photosensitive and can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Skip these oils if you’ll be in the sun a lot.
• Don’t Add the Honey When Melting The Ingredients – Honey is added at the end, along with the essential oil (if using), to retain all its natural properties. We don’t want the heat destroying anything of its benefits. 
• Don’t Add the Essential Oils When Melting The Ingredients – Essential oils quickly evaporate when exposed to high temperatures. Wait until the ingredients have melted and are away from the heat source before adding the essential oil.

How to Prevent Gritty Lip Balm 

• The Problem – I also shared about this issue in my shea butter lip balm recipe, as it’s a common issue with shea butter products. While there’s nothing wrong with this, and the lip balm is still usable, the final product can feel funny on your lips. Grittiness is a common issue with a shea butter lip balm if it’s not cooled rapidly after melting.
• The Solution – The rapid cooling performed in step 4 of my recipe helps to prevent a gritty lip balm. 

FAQs

• Can I use other butters, like mango or cocoa butter, instead of shea butter? Yes, you can. Mango butter is an excellent substitute for shea butter, as it’s soft and spreadable. Natural cocoa butter is a hard butter that melts easily but can produce a firm final product. 
• Will this work in lip tubes vs. jars? No, it won’t due to the softer nature of the lip balm. The best options are cute little jars or a small mint tin (like an Altoids tin). If you want to make lip balm in a tube, try my other DIY lip balm recipes: shea butter lip balm recipe or customizable 3-ingredient lip balm. 
• Can I double or triple this recipe? Yes, you can! I provide the exact measurements to make a larger quantity in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

Benefits of Using Honey on Your Lips

• rich in antioxidants
• has antibacterial properties (check out this article from the National Institutes of Health)
• a natural preservative
• a humectant, which means it has moisturizing properties 
• is soothing
• doesn’t strip the skin (like many commercial face washes and soaps) and works to regulate the pH of the skin, which is essential for healthy skin function
• it’s relatively cheap, considering the multi-purpose nature of this ingredient

More Homemade Products Made With Honey

Honey is a beautiful skincare ingredient. Here are more ways to use it in your skincare routine. 

• Honey Face Wash – Made with castile soap and honey.
• Honey & Aloe Face Mask – A simple and soothing blend of honey and aloe.
• Soothing Acne Face Mask – Combine honey and clay for a fantastic face mask.
• Spirulina Honey Face Mask – The perfect “glow” face mask.

Before You Get Started

Ingredients Needed 

Here are the simple ingredients needed for the base recipe. Then, if required, add cocoa powder, or activated charcoal for brunette, red, or black hair. 

• 2 Tablespoons Arrowroot Powder – Like cornstarch, this natural starch is a lightweight, white, powdery substance generally used for cooking and baking. Arrowroot absorbs excess oil, giving oily hair a dirty look. 
• 1 Tablespoon Bentonite Clay: A naturally occurring, organic powder commonly used to make a soothing face mask and foundation powder. In this recipe, bentonite absorbs excess oil. 
• 7-10 Drops of Essential Oil: If you’d like to add a natural fragrance, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. I love lavender essential oil as it has a calming scent, and some say that it has hair growth properties. Other options include rosemary essential oil or tea tree essential oil (essential oils also work as a lice repellent, which is an added benefit if you have young kids at home and don’t want to partake in the yearly classroom lice “party”).

​Equipment

• Small bowl and spoon- for mixing the ingredients 
• 4-ounce storage container – I love to use an old spice bottle as the top has little holes that make application easy and mess-free.

How to Customize This DIY Recipe For All Hair Types

Play around with the ingredients and create a custom shade based on your hair color and shade. I provide exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• For blonde and gray hair – Combine arrowroot powder and bentonite clay. Depending on your blonde shade and light hair, you can use arrowroot powder on its own if the clay has too much silver tint for you.
• Brunette and red hair – Combine arrowroot powder, bentonite clay, and a touch of cocoa powder to darken the tint for brunettes and red hair. Some blogs recommend cinnamon powder for a darker brunette shade, but I would avoid cinnamon as it may burn your scalp since it’s a “hot spice.” 
• Black hair – Combine arrowroot powder, bentonite clay, cocoa powder, and, if you’d like, a small of activated charcoal to darken the mixture.

How to Make Dry Shampoo: Step By Step Guide 

• Step 1 Combine the dry shampoo ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch, bentonite clay, cocoa powder, activated charcoal (if using for a darker tint), and essential oil (if using for a scent). 
• Step 2 Add to a Storage Jar – Pour the ingredients into a storage container of choice. Alternatively, you can add the ingredients directly to a spice bottle, salt shaker, or Mason jar, place the lid on the bottle, and give the ingredients a good shake to combine. 

​How Long Will It Last? 

Store for up to 6 months – Store homemade dry shampoo at room temperature for up to 12 months. 

How Do I Use Dry Shampoo? 

• Step 1 – Lift sections of your hair. Sprinkle the DIY dry shampoo powder near the scalp, hair follicles, and crown of your head. There’s no need to get the ends of your hair, just the roots. I recommend using a spice bottle to sprinkle the powder in your hair quickly. If you don’t use an old spice bottle or salt shaker, either sprinkle some of the powder into the palm of your hands and apply near the crown and scalp of your head, or use a large makeup brush by dipping the brush into the powder and then applying the powder.
• Step 2 – Wait a few minutes for the dry shampoo powder to set in and absorb the oils.
• Step 3 – Massage the dry shampoo into your scalp and the hair follicles.
• Step 4 – Brush your hair to distribute the dry shampoo powder evenly. You should not be left with any visible powder after this step.

What to Avoid Doing 

• Don’t Use More Than You Need – Wait to apply a large amount of dry shampoo in one area. Instead, a little bit goes a long way! You don’t need to use dry shampoo on your entire head. Instead, focus on the areas that get the most oily and treat them spot-on. I focus on my temples and the crown of my head, around my roots. Sprinkle the shampoo over near your roots in a light dusting. Sprinkling the powder with your fingers or using a shaker bottle (a spice bottle) works best. 
• Only Using On Dirty Hair – You can use this oil-absorbing substance on more than just dirty, oily hair. Try sprinkling a small amount on clean hair, before styling and after drying, to give hair more volume. 
• Not Being Patient – The ingredients need time to absorb the excess oil, so give the powder 2-5 minutes to work before massaging your scalp and brushing it out. 
• Not Brushing or Blow Drying After Applying – After applying the dry shampoo and giving it a couple of minutes to absorb the oil, massage the roots and brush and/or brush dry your hair. This method will help distribute any excess powder throughout your hair.

How to Prevent Product Buildup

• Natural dry shampoo is fantastic for extending how many days you can go between regular washing, but it doesn’t replace cleaning and washing your hair with regular shampoo.
• To prevent buildup and encourage hair health, clean your hair using traditional shampoo and water every few days to remove any product buildup. 
• Read More: My favorite non-toxic shampoo and conditioner brands.  

​Best Natural Store-Bought Dry Shampoo

Want to avoid a DIY project? Here are my favorite natural options. 

1. Hair Dance – This is my favorite store-bought option. It has a lovely scent, absorbs oils perfectly, and it’s affordable. I can go 3+ days between washes with this product. This option works best for blonde and light-colored hair. Price: $10 for 1 ounce
2. Innersense Refresh – A foam dry shampoo that works to absorb oils and leave your hair feeling voluminous and clean. Works for all hair color. Price: $24 for 2.4 ounces
3. Acure – An affordable option that works for all hair color, as there is one formula made with cocoa powder and one without. Price: $12 for 3.4 ounces

FAQs

• Can I use baking soda instead of arrowroot starch? Many people swear by baking soda, but arrowroot powder works better as it doesn’t leave hair starchy and stiff. 
• Can I use cornstarch instead of arrowroot starch? Yes, you can! Use the same amount.
• I want to make a dry shampoo for dark hair. What essential oils can I add to the cocoa powder? Lavender compliments cocoa powder the best! 
• Can I use baby powder as a natural dry shampoo? Yes, I believe so. My mother-in-law swears by this option. I prefer the recipe I’ve shared here in this post. 
• Is this recipe for fine hair? Yes! Here’s what Diana said about this formula in the comments below, “I have super fine, oily, flat hair. After I wash and dry my hair, I apply the dry shampoo on my roots. It gives me volume, and my hair stays oily-free for the rest of the day. I reapply as needed every morning and only wash my hair every two or three days. I love it!” 

Ingredients to Avoid Shampoo & Conditioner 

Look at the ingredient labels to find the best non-toxic shampoo and conditioner without harmful chemicals. Watch for these ingredients. 

• Surfactants – Like Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). These ingredients are what produce the lather in shampoo. These ingredients aren’t toxic to humans but can be irritating.
• Synthetic Fragrances – This trade secret ingredient can contain up to 3,000 different chemicals, including possible carcinogens like phthalates (used to make the scent last longer), which companies are not required to disclose. Learn about the hidden secrets of fragrance here. You can still enjoy fragranced hair products. Look for companies that fully disclose their fragrance ingredients and use natural perfumes, like essential oils. Avoid hair products that list “fragrance” on the ingredient list and nothing more.
• Preservatives – Ingredients like parabens, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (bromopol), quaternium-15, etc. Preservatives extend the shelf life of a product and kill bacteria. Preservatives must be used in formulas that contain water (most hair products), so you can’t avoid preservatives. Still, you can avoid preservatives of concern like parabens, which have been linked to breast cancer.
• Emulsifiers – Ethanolamines (DEA, TEA, and MEA) and ingredients ending in -siloxane.

What to Look For In Shampoo and Conditioner

Navigating an ingredient list can be tricky. Luckily, there are a couple of great resources that help you do this. And, of course, my guide will help you easily find the best hair products.

• EWG – An excellent resource for looking up products and ingredients is the SkinDeep database from the Environmental Working Group. Use the search bar to look up your personal care products, like shampoo, and see how they rate on the toxicity scale. 
• Made Safe Label – Another resource is to look for products with the “Made Safe” label from a third-party non-profit organization with strict standards.

8. Rahua

Rahua is a fan-favorite and an original brand in clean beauty hair care. This brand also makes excellent styling products and dry shampoo. 

• Best Hair Types: All Hair Types (Rahua Classic Shampoo & Conditioner), Color-Treated Hair (Rahua Color Full Shampoo & Conditioner) 
• Price: $36 for 9 ounces
• Where to Buy: Detox Market, Amazon, Rahua.com

9. Native (Best Affordable Brand Under $10)

Native came on the clean beauty scene a few years ago with deodorant, then started making other personal care products like shampoo. This is the best natural shampoo that you’ll find at the store. I love how it cleans my hair, the scent, and how easy it is to find! Native is also great because they make scents for men, which can be hard to find in the clean beauty world. 

• Best Hair Types: All Hair Types
• Price: $10 for 16 ounces 
• Where to Buy: Target, Native.com, Amazon

10. Briogeo (Best for Dandruff) 

This shampoo is specifically formulated for dandruff. It uses salicylic acid and lactic acids in its formula to soothe scalp irritation without stripping the hair of vital moisture. 

• Best Hair Types: Dandruff, Itchy Scalp, Dry Scalp (MegaStrength Dandruff Relief)
• Price: $42 for 8 ounces
• Where to Buy: Detox Market, Amazon 

11. Honest Company (Best for the Whole Family) 

Honest makes shampoo + body wash in one bottle that’s great for the whole family as it cleans but is also tear-free and gentle enough for babies. I love that you can buy a large refill bag, too! So you can use your bottles if desired and refill them. Honest also makes excellent makeup products! 

• Best Hair Types: All Hair Types 
• Price: $11 for 10 ounces
• Where to Buy: Honest.com, Amazon

12. Avalon Organics (Best Affordable Brand) 

Avalon Organics is another easy-to-find, affordable brand. The brand uses certified organic and plant-based formulas with botanicals and essential oils. 

• Best Hair Types: All Hair Types (Nourishing Lavender & Conditioner), Fine Hair (Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner), Dandruff (Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoo & Conditioner)
• Price: $18 for 32 ounces
• Where to Buy: avalonorganics.com, Amazon

13. Desert Essence (Best Affordable Brand for Different Hair Types) 

I was introduced to this brand when I had Lisa from The Knew New on the podcast to talk about natural haircare. I love that this brand makes a fragrance-free shampoo, which is excellent for anyone with sensitivities. 

• Best Hair Types: Oily Hair (Lemon Tea Tree Shampoo & Conditioner Duo), Curly Hair (Coconut Shampoo & Conditioner Duo), Color-Treated Hair (Italian Red Grape Shampoo & Conditioner Duo), All Hair Types (Fragrance-Free Shampoo & Conditioner) 
• Price: $9 for 8 ounces
• Where to Buy: desertessence.com, Whole Foods, Amazon

Best Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

Shampoo bars provide a package-free, low-waste option for shampooing. You’ll get about 50-60 washes per bar. 

1. Viori Shampoo Bar – Made with longsheng rice water, this bar shampoos and conditions hair. Price: $39 per bar
2. Super Zero – A shampoo bar that moisturizes and cleans hair with a variety of different options for different hair, including a purple bar for color-treated blonde hair. Price: $28 per bar

Best Non-toxic Shampoos For Kids & Babies 

1. Alaffia Everyday – A company that makes soap with shea butter from Africa. This company makes various scents and even kid-friendly shampoo and body wash combos. Price: $15 for 32 ounces
2. Earth Mama – This brand specifically makes natural baby products. The baby wash is made from a castile soap base. Price: $16 for 5 ounces
3. Babo Botanicals – Made with 23 plant-based ingredients, including our certified organic Nutri-Soothe Herbal Blend. This brand also makes a fragrance-free option and money-saving refill bags. Price: $17 for 16 ounces
4. Everyone – This brand makes various scents for kids in their 3-in-1 formula: body wash, bubble bath, and shampoo. And the bottles are very affordable at just $13 for 32 ounces. Price: $13 for 32 ounces

Best Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a woman’s best friend on no-wash days. Sprinkle in some dry shampoo, massage your scalp with the oil-absorbing formula, and away you go! Good as new.

1. Homemade Dry Shampoo – Make your own formula with simple ingredients. Works for all hair color. Price: $2 per bottle
2. Hair Dance – This is my favorite store-bought option. It has a lovely scent, absorbs oils perfectly, and it’s affordable. I can go 3+ days between washes with this product. This option works best for blonde and light-colored hair. Price: $10 for 1 ounce
3. Innersense Refresh – A foam dry shampoo that works to absorb oils and leave your hair feeling voluminous and clean. Works for all hair color. Price: $24 for 2.4 ounces
4. Acure – An affordable option that works for all hair color, as there is one formula made with cocoa powder and one without. Price: $12 for 3.4 ounces

How to Get the Best Results When Using Natural Hair Care Products

• Double Wash – Start with a small amount of shampoo and work it through your hair, roots, and scalp. Wash, then repeat. This method will help remove any buildup from products and let you go longer between washes.
• Section Your Hair – Shampoo in sections if you have long, thick hair. Shampooing this way will help you clean every section, which can be hard to do with long, thick hair.
• Don’t Wash Your Hair Everyday – Washing your hair daily encourages an overproduction of oil, so skip a day or two if you can. If you need to, use a dry shampoo in between wash days.
• Install a Shower Filter – Chlorine in treated water can dull hair color, irritate the scalp, and strip hair of natural oils. Installing a shower filter may help improve how your hair feels and how your shampoo performs. 

Before you get started: What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons shea butter- provides the moisturizing relief my lips crave in the drier fall and winter months.
•  2 tablespoons carrier oil – nourishes and moisturizes the skin. My favorite oil options: sweet almond oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, and virgin coconut oil. 
•  2-3 teaspoons beeswax pellets – the glue that holds the oil and shea butter together and creates a solid product. Beeswax, a natural ingredient thanks to hard-working bees, provides a protective barrier to the skin and may help soothe it.

Equipment  

• small sauce pan –used to create a double boiler with a bowl to melt the ingredients. 
• medium heat-safe bowl – this can be glass or metal and should be large enough to rest on the saucepan to melt the ingredients. I’ve found that a glass measuring cup that sits in the saucepan (and the water added to the saucepan) works best as it has a spout for pouring the melted wax into lip balm tubes. 
• lip balm containers – Either lip balm tubes or metal tins. This recipe makes 7-8 regular-sized tubes (or 4 ounces).

How to Make Lip Balm: Step By Step Guide

• Step 1 Combine Ingredients – Place the shea butter, oil of your choice, and wax in a glass bowl.
•  Step 2 Melt Ingredients – Place the glass bowl on top of a saucepan partially filled with water over medium heat (this creates a double boiler). Heat until the wax melts, along with the butter, stirring occasionally.
•  Step 3 Remove Ingredients From Heat – Remove the bowl from the pot and the heat. Add the essential oil drops of choice (if using). 
•  Step 4 Pour Into Lip Balm Containers – Place a disposable plate or paper towel under the containers you’ll be using to prevent wax from dripping onto your countertop. Use an oven mitt to pour the mixture into lip balm containers (tubes or cases), and allow the balm to sit for a few minutes until formed. It’s ready to use once set (firm). 

Application Tip: Apply as needed to the lips. May be used daily and multiple times a day. I love to use this lip scrub once a week during the winter as well.

Shelf Life: How Long Will It Last? 

Homemade lip balm will last for the life of the ingredients, about 6-12 months, stored at room temperature.

How Much Does This Recipe Make? 

This recipe makes 4 ounces of lip balm or about 7-8 standard-size lip balm tubes.

How to Make Vegan Lip Balm 

Shea butter and carrier oil are naturally vegan, so the only ingredient you’ll need to change is the beeswax. A plant-based wax, like soy wax, carnauba wax, or candelilla, is a great substitute.

Should I use unrefined shea butter or refined shea butter?

The choice is yours. This all depends on your preference as both are great options.  

• Unrefined Shea Butter – This type of shea butter contains all its natural nutrients, so it’s considered the best option. It has a strong, earthy scent and cream color. 
• Refined Shea Butter – Due to the refining process, some of its natural nutrients are removed, making it odorless and white. 

What to Avoid Doing

• Don’t Use Hot Essential Oils – Some essential oils can irritate the skin and cause the skin to have a burning sensation. Avoid these “hot oils” such as cinnamon, clove, oregano, thyme, and lemongrass.
• Citrus Oils –  Citrus oils, like sweet orange or lemon essential oil, are photosensitive and can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. 
• Don’t Add the Essential Oils When Melting Ingredients – Essential oils are sensitive to heat and quickly evaporate. So don’t add the essential oil (if using) along with the other ingredients. Instead, wait until after you remove the ingredients from the heat and just before adding the liquid to the lip balm containers of choice.

How to Prevent Grainy Lip Balm 

Lip balm made with shea butter can quickly turn gritty or grainy. While there’s nothing wrong with this, and the lip balm is still usable, the final product can feel funny on your lips. To prevent a grainy texture:

• Cool Lip Balm in Fridge – Place the lip balm tubes in the fridge so they cool faster.
• Slow Melt – If you find this issue still occurs, next time, melt the shea butter first over low heat in the glass bowl (double boiler set up) before adding the other ingredients for 15-20 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients. This slower, longer melt can also help reduce the grainy texture issue.

Shea Butter Lip Balm Benefits

• Hydrating & Moisturizing – Shea butter is rich in moisturizing and hydrating qualities. Because of this, it’s great for dry skin. Use shea butter on dry, chapped lips and dry skin. I love to make this body butter with shea butter for my whole body.   
• Soothing – The anti-inflammatory properties from fatty acids help calm and soothe the skin.   
• Vitamin E & A – These antioxidant ingredients may help protect the skin against free radical damage and provides a protective barrier to the skin. Another reason why shea butter is also a fantastic body moisturizer and face moisturizer, as well as a great lip balm.   

FAQs

• Can I make lip balm without beeswax? The wax protects the skin (a moisture barrier) and helps solidify the final product. You can’t skip the wax, but you don’t have to use beeswax. Instead, you can use soy wax, carnauba wax, or candelilla to make a natural lip balm. Fun note: beeswax and soy wax may also be used to make homemade candles! 
•  Will the lip balm melt when it’s hot outside? The lip balm shouldn’t melt when it’s hot outside, even if kept in your car. It will soften, but it shouldn’t fully melt. 
•  How can I make the lip balm more glossy? Coconut and castor oil are the best for creating a glossier lip balm recipe. 
•  How can I add color to my lip balm? I’ve experimented with different natural colorings, like beetroot powder, hibiscus powder, and even cocoa powder, but I’ve never had success with any of these ingredients. The best way to color organic lip balm is to use colored mica powder (about 3/4 teaspoon). Here’s a tutorial on how to do that. 

5 More DIY Recipes With Shea Butter

• Custom Lip Balm – Use any body butter of choice or oil to make this natural lip balm recipe.
• Honey Lip Balm – Use honey, shea butter, and beeswax to make an ultra-hydrating lip balm.
• Lotion Bars – Moisturizing lotion in a solid bar, made with shea butter and beeswax.
• Body Butter – This luxurious lotion is made with shea butter and oil and moisturizes the whole body.
• Face Moisturizer – Combine shea butter and oil to make an all-natural face moisturizer.

Before you get started: What You’ll Need

You’ll also find the full recipe, instructions, and links for my favorite ingredient brands in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of body butter – provides much of the moisturizing relief my lips crave in the drier months. Choose one of these options for the body butter: cocoa butter (hydrating and rich in vitamin E, chocolatey scent), shea butter (rich in fatty acids, vitamin E, ultra-moisturizing), or mango butter (rich in fatty acids, ultra-moisturizing).
• 2 tablespoons carrier oil – nourishes and moisturizes the skin. My favorite oil options are sweet almond, olive, sunflower, avocado, jojoba, and coconut oil. 
• 2-3 teaspoons beeswax pellets – the glue that holds the oil and body butter together and creates a solid product. The wax also provides a protective moisture barrier to the skin and may also help to soothe the skin.
• 5 drops essential oil (optional) – peppermint or lavender are personal favorites. The essential oil adds a lovely scent.

Equipment

• Small saucepan – used to create a double boiler by adding water to the saucepan and placing a heat-safe bowl on top. This method protects the fragile ingredients from burning.
• Small or medium heat-safe bowl or tall measuring cup (glass or metal)- to melt the ingredients. I’ve found that a glass measuring cup that can sit in the small saucepan (above) works best as it has a spout for pouring the melted wax into lip balm tubes. Other options include a glass or metal mixing bowl; however, they are more challenging to use if you’re making lip balm tubes, as they don’t have a spout for pouring. 
• Lip balm containers – Either lip balm tubes or metal tins. This recipe makes 7-8 regular-sized tubes (or 4 ounces).

How to Make Lip Balm: Step By Step Guide

• Step 1 Combine Ingredients – Place the body butter, oil, and beeswax pellets in a small or medium heat-safe bowl or tall measuring cup. 
• Step 2 Melt Ingredients – Place the glass bowl on top (or sitting inside) of a saucepan partially filled with water (about 1/4 way full) over medium heat (this creates a double boiler to protect the fragile ingredients from burning). Heat until the wax and butter melts, stirring occasionally. While doing this, place a disposable plate or paper towel under the lip balm containers to prevent wax from dripping onto your countertop when you reach step 4.
• Step 3 Remove Ingredients From Heat – Remove the bowl from the saucepan and place it on an oven mitt or towel. Add the essential oil drops of choice (if using). 
• Step 4 Pour Into Lip Balm Containers –  Use an oven mitt to pour the liquid mixture into lip balm containers (tubes or tins). Allow the balm to rest for a few minutes until formed and solid. It’s ready to use once set (firm). 

Application Tip: Apply as needed to the lips. May be used daily and multiple times a day. I love to use this lip scrub once a week during the winter as well.

How Long Will This Kind of Lip Balm last? 

Homemade lip balm will last for the life of the ingredients, about 12 months—store at temperature. 

How Much Lip Balm Does This Recipe Make? 

This recipe makes 4 ounces, or about 7-8 standard-size lip balm tubes. 

How to Make Vegan Lip Balm

To make this basic recipe vegan, you must substitute beeswax for plant-based wax, like soy wax, carnauba wax, or candelilla. 

The other ingredients used are all plant-based.

 What to Avoid Doing

• Don’t Use “Hot” Essential Oils – Some essential oils can irritate the skin and cause the skin to feel an uncomfortable burning sensation. Avoid “hot oils” such as cinnamon, clove, oregano, thyme, and lemongrass.
• Citrus Oils – ​ Citrus oils, like sweet orange essential oil or lemon essential oil, are photosensitive and can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Skip these oils if you’ll be in the sun a lot.
• Don’t Add the Essential Oils When Melting The Ingredients – Essential oils quickly evaporate when exposed to high temperatures. Wait until the ingredients have melted and are away from the heat source before adding the essential oil. 

How to Prevent Natural Lip Balm Recipe Problems

• Grainy Lip Balm – Lip balm made with shea butter can (on some occasions) turn gritty or grainy. While the lip balm is still usable, the final product can feel funny on your lips when applied. To prevent a grainy texture:

1. Cool in Fridge – Place the lip balm in the fridge to cool after pouring it into your tins or tubes. 
2. Slow Melt – If you find this issue still occurs, next time, melt the shea butter first over low heat in the glass bowl (double boiler set up) before adding the other ingredients for 15-20 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients and proceed with the steps. This slower, longer melt can also help reduce the grainy texture issue.

• ​Lip Balm is Too Hard or Soft – Too much wax, and you’ll end up with a very hard lip balm; too little wax, and you’ll get a very soft lip balm. If this issue occurs, next time, add more wax if the lip balm is too soft for your liking. Add more oil if the lip balm is too hard for your liking. Either way, the lip balm is still usable but can be tweaked as desired next time. 

How to Use Vinegar to Soften Laundry: Step by Step Guide

Here’s the simplest, homemade liquid fabric softener. This simple way of softening laundry requires no mixing, expensive ingredients, or hair conditioner (yes, that’s a thing). All you need is a cheap bottle of vinegar!

What You’ll Need

• 1 bottle of white vinegar (1/2 cup Distilled White Vinegar per standard load of laundry)

Instructions

• Add the vinegar to the washing machine during the rinse cycle, to the fabric softener dispenser, or a fabric softener ball (like a downy ball) at the beginning of the wash cycle. 

Can you Add Essential Oils? 

Some people like to mix a couple of drops of essential oils with vinegar in a small bowl before adding to the wash, but I don’t see the point in doing this. The clothes will not end up smelling like the essential oil. Instead, save the essential oils for other natural cleaners. 

Why Use Vinegar to Soften Laundry? 

The easiest and cheapest fabric softener is straight white distilled vinegar.

• Excellent Cleaning Power – Vinegar is a natural ingredient containing 4-6% acetic acid, making vinegar an excellent cleaning ingredient.
• Breaks Down Detergent – When used in the wash, vinegar may help soften fabrics by breaking down excess detergent left on the clothes (source).
• Neutralizes Odors – Vinegar also neutralizes odors, even mildew odors that can linger on clothes.
• Breaks Down Mineral Deposits – A high mineral content in your water may also leave clothes feeling stiff. Vinegar works to break down mineral deposits, which can also help soften garments. 

What to Avoid Doing 

​Vinegar isn’t always the right answer. There are certain times when you shouldn’t use vinegar or need to take precautions. Let’s talk about each scenario.

• Elastic Workout Clothes – The acid in vinegar breaks down elastics over time. Don’t use vinegar with elastic fabrics, like your favorite Lululemon yoga pants. Instead, opt for the non-vinegar options below.
• Never Mix Baking Soda and Vinegar – Some recipes call for mixing baking soda and vinegar to make a fabric softener. Baking soda is a base, while vinegar is an acid. When combined, they create a chemical reaction and cancel each other out. Not harmful, but not effective. When you do this, you’re wasting ingredients. Instead, use plain vinegar (distilled white vinegar) straight in the washer. 
• Mixing Castile Soap & Vinegar – Another combination that doesn’t mix is castile soap and vinegar. Homemade laundry detergent recipes are often made with castile soap, including my favorite liquid detergent and powder laundry soap. The good news is you can use straight vinegar as a softener and castile soap laundry detergent. You will not have an issue since you’re not mixing the two ingredients directly but instead using them in a giant washing machine (filled with lots of water). Keep the two products in separate compartments (one in the laundry soap compartment, the other in a downy ball or fabric softener compartment), as they’ll release at different times.
• Never Mix Vinegar With Bleach – The two ingredients will create a dangerous gas. If you plan to use bleach in the washer, skip this fabric softener and choose another option below. Or, try my homemade bleach alternative.

Three More Natural Fabric Softeners

Option 1: Salt

Salt is a favorite ingredient for lifting some laundry stains. And you can use salt as a fabric softener. I share a detailed recipe for this softener/scent booster here.

Option 2: Wool Dryer Balls 

Dryer balls are not a traditional fabric softener but an excellent option for softening laundry. Wool dryer balls are an alternative to commercial dryer sheets.

Option 3: Homemade Dryer Sheets

I share how to make your own dryer sheets in my Natural Cleaning Made Easy cleaning course.

FAQs

• Can I use both salt and vinegar as a fabric softener? Yes, you can! The only combo I don’t recommend using together is baking soda and vinegar.
•  I know castile soap and vinegar don’t mix well. Can I use a homemade laundry detergent (made with castile soap) with vinegar? Yes, you can. Since the machine has so much water to dilute the two products, you can use castile soap detergent and vinegar as a fabric softener. Just don’t combine the two directly in one container.
• I’ll definitely have to try these out and see which I like best. Which one would you say leaves clothes smelling the freshest? Vinegar works great for eliminating odors, so it’s my favorite for the freshest clothes.

More Natural Laundry Products

I’m a big fan of making laundry products, as they’re cheap and effective. That’s what I teach in my course, Natural Cleaning Made Easy. Here are a few of my favorite products.

• Homemade Detergent Recipe: Pick your favorite, either homemade liquid soap or powder laundry soap. ​
• Best Store-Bought Laundry Detergents: Don’t want to make your own laundry soap? Here are the best store-bought detergents.
• Stain Remover: Combining the power of castile soap, lemon essential oil, and hydrogen peroxide. This stain remover is excellent for pre-treating laundry and tackles any stain!
• Bleach Alternative: Avoid bleach with this simple formula. Perfect for soaking fabrics that are dull and need brightening.

Laundry Detergent Ingredients to Avoid 

This list comes from Molly’s Suds, a long-time natural laundry soap company.

Not everyone agrees on what is considered “natural” or “toxic.” These words get tossed around a lot and there’s research on both sides, both for the use of an ingredient and against it. But this list is a great place to start when doing your own research.

• Synthetic Fragrances
• Artificial Dyes
• Optical Brighteners
• Chlorine
• Formaldehyde
• Synthetic Nonylphenol Ethoxylates
• Phosphates
• Phthalates
• Methylisothiazolinone
• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
• 1,4-Dioxane

Best Natural Laundry Detergents (Store-Bought) 

• What Made My List & Why? After many years of testing and research, here are the laundry detergent options that work the best. I’ve only recommended laundry products that meet my strict cleaning requirements: clean clothes, don’t leave behind residue, work in all washers (including high-efficiency washing machines), and don’t leave clothes with an awkward scent. 
• Transparency is Important: These options perform just as well as conventional laundry detergents, like Tide or Gain. However, they take pride in their ingredients, using biodegradable ingredients, plant-derived ingredients, and natural scents (like essential oils). The companies also willingly list all the ingredients (not just active ones) so you can research and determine if the ingredients align with what you need/desire. They may not all be “perfect,” but I think they’re better than traditional laundry detergent. 
• Where to Buy? Some detergent brands on this list may be found at a local grocery store (depending on your area), and others may be ordered online (Thrive Market, Amazon, and other online retailers). 

Best Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipes

One of the easiest ways to avoid potentially harmful chemicals (source) is to make your laundry detergent. Here are my top 3 DIY laundry detergent recipes. 

12. Liquid Laundry Detergent

This popular recipe combines washing soda, liquid castile soap, and borax to create a powerful liquid laundry soap that lifts dirt, removes fresh stains, and brightens clothes. It’s easy to make, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. 

Cost to Make: $6-8

13. Laundry Detergent Powder

If you love powder laundry soap, this is a great recipe. It works best with hot water, as this is the case with most powder laundry soaps. The ingredients are similar to liquid laundry soap, made with castile soap (bar form), washing soda, and borax. 

Cost to Make: $8

14. Borax-Free Laundry Soap Powder

Some folks don’t care for borax. If that’s you and you want to make DIY laundry soap without borax, this powder soap is the best formula.

Cost to Make: $8

More Natural Laundry Products

I’m a big fan of making laundry products, as they’re cheap and effective. That’s what I teach in my course, Natural Cleaning Made Easy. Here are a few of my favorite products.

• Stain Remover: Combining the power of castile soap, lemon essential oil, and hydrogen peroxide. This stain remover is great for pre-treating laundry and tackles just about any stain!
• Fabric Softener: Made with epsom salt and essential oils.
• Wool Dryer Balls: Make your own dryer balls as an alternative to dryer sheets. Or, purchase pre-made dryer balls. I also show you how to make your own dryer sheets in my cleaning course.
• Bleach Alternative: Brighten whites with this simple 3-ingredient formula.

Ingredients Needed to Make This Creamy Dressing

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons tahini (the star ingredient!)
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon salt
• pepper

How to Make Homemade Tahini

Don’t want to buy tahini at the store? Check out this homemade tahini recipe. Here’s a quick summary: 

• Toast 1 cup of sesame seeds in a skillet over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning the spoon. 
• Spread the seeds over a cookie sheet to cool. 
• Once cool, place the toasted seeds in a food processor and blend until creamy, stopping to scrape the sides of the food processor as needed. Stir in a pinch or two of salt at the end. You may need to add 2-4 tablespoons of oil to the paste to achieve a creamy tahini like you’ll find in the store.
• Store in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Tahini Salad Dressing Variations 

Use the base ingredients of olive oil, tahini, acid (vinegar or citrus juice), garlic, salt, and pepper and change the dressing based on your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Maple Tahini Dressing: Add a little sweetener with 1-2 teaspoons of maple syrup (or honey). Tahini paste can have a bitter flavor (delicious, in my opinion). The maple syrup/honey cuts through the bitterness of the tahini. 
• Lemon Herb Tahini Dressing: Add 1-2 tablespoons of freshly chopped herbs. My favorite fresh herbs: basil, parsley, or mint.  
• Balsamic Dressing: Add 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice. 

How to Make This Salad Dressing

• Step 1: Add the olive oil, lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to a small jar (like an 8-ounce mason jar). Seal the jar with a lid.
• Step 2: Shake the jar to combine the ingredients. Or, add the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine.  
• Step 3: That’s it! Now you’re ready to use the dressing or store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and use later. 

How to Store 

• Store the dressing in the fridge, in an air-tight container, for up to 2 weeks. 
• The creamy tahini dressing will solidify in the cold fridge. The solution? Leave the jar on the counter until the ingredients are liquid (about 30 minutes), then shake or whisk. Or, run warm water over the outside of the jar, then shake. This will help emulsify the ingredients after separating in the fridge. Place the dressing back in the fridge after use and repeat as needed.

How to Make a Delicious Green Salad With This Dressing 

Use any of the following ingredients to make a delicious salad, then mix with the dressing.

• Leafy Greens: arugula, baby kale, romaine lettuce, butter lettuce, spring/baby greens 
• ​Bell Peppers (how to store bell peppers)
• Celery (how to store celery)
• Radishes (how to store radishes)
• Tomatoes 
• Carrots (how to store carrots)
• Cucumbers 
• Red Onion or Green Onion 
• Nuts and Seeds: pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, slivered or chopped almonds
• Cheese: goat cheese, feta, parmesan, blue cheese, gorgonzola, asiago 
• Cooked Chickpeas 

Favorite Ways to Use This Dressing (Beyond a Green Salad)

Here are other delicious ways to use this dressing: 

• Mediterranean Salad: Combine veggies, feta cheese, olives, and quinoa, then top with dressing. 
• Roasted Vegetable Drizzle: Roast your favorite veggies (I’m obsessed with roasted frozen veggies). After roasting, drizzle with dressing. 
• Chicken Marinade: Place chicken breasts or thighs in a bag and pour this dressing over the top for a marinade. Marinate for up to 24 hours (at least 30 minutes) in the fridge, then bake, grill, or cook on the stove-top. Here’s my favorite grilled chicken method. 
• Grain Bowls: Also known as “Buddha Bowls.” Combine a grain, protein, and roasted veggies in a bowl, then drizzle with dressing. 
• Pasta Salad: Combine pasta, salami, cheese, tomatoes, then toss with the vinaigrette. 
• Wrap: Make a lunch or dinner wrap with a tortilla, sliced deli meat or shredded chicken, lettuce, cucumbers, and bell pepper strips. Lightly drizzle this incredible dressing over the top, then roll up and enjoy! 
• Dip: Use as a dip for fresh veggies, like carrots or cucumbers.