How to make it
- 1Measure all dry ingredients into a large bowl
Use a bowl that gives you room to stir — this recipe makes a large batch. Measure all four ingredients before combining.
- 2Mix thoroughly until uniform
Stir with a dry spoon for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is completely uniform in colour and texture. There should be no distinct layers of any one ingredient visible.
- 3Break up any clumps
Borax and baking soda can have small clumps from their packaging. Crush and stir until the powder flows freely. Any remaining clumps will dissolve in the dishwasher cycle.
- 4Transfer to an airtight container
Pour the powder into a large, sealed container — a glass jar, a metal tin, or a sealed plastic container all work. Label with the date and the usage instructions (2 tbsp per load).
- 5Fill the rinse aid compartment with white vinegar
Open the rinse aid compartment in your dishwasher and fill it with plain white vinegar. This replaces commercial rinse aid and prevents water spots on glasses. Refill whenever it runs out.
Lemi-Shine is a citric acid-based powder (not a synthetic chemical) that prevents hard water mineral deposits from clouding your glasses and dishes over time. It is the ingredient that gives this formula its streak-free, spot-free results. Find it in the dishwasher aisle of most supermarkets — it is typically sold as a dishwasher booster.
Surfaces guide
- Add 20 drops of lemon essential oil for a light citrus scent in the finished wash
- Increase Lemi-Shine to 1½ cups for very hard water areas with heavy mineral deposits
- Reduce borax to 1 cup and increase baking soda to 3 cups for a gentler formula
- Add ¼ cup oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) for extra whitening power on mugs and teacups