More and more households are abandoning classic dishwashing liquid for a homemade alternative that is much less expensive and without the substances present in commercial products.
Dishwashing liquid is one of those products that we buy almost automatically. However, its price has increased significantly in recent years, especially for references presented as more natural or certified ecological. Added to this is another concern for many households: the presence of ingredients considered irritating or controversial in certain commercial products. As a result, more and more consumers are looking for a solution that is cheaper, simpler and more reassuring for doing the dishes on a daily basis.
Because behind the colorful bottles sold in supermarkets, the compositions are sometimes long and difficult to understand. Preservatives, perfumes, foaming agents or colorings can accumulate in products used every day, sometimes several times a day. And so-called “green” references often remain expensive: an Ecocert certified dishwashing liquid, for example, costs on average 3.20 euros per 500 ml. Over an entire year, the bill can quickly add up for households that regularly use this type of product.
Faced with this, a homemade alternative is attracting more and more individuals: making their own dishwashing liquid from vegetable Marseille soap shavings. Combined with bicarbonate and a few soda crystals, just 50 grams of shavings can prepare a full liter of dishwashing liquid. And the cost is much lower than commercial products: around 1.30 euros per liter according to Savonnerie Fer à Cheval. For an equivalent quantity, it is almost five times cheaper than an ecological product bought in stores. In addition to being economical, this preparation is also attractive for its much shorter and easier to understand composition.
This success can also be explained by the simplicity of the recipe. Vegetable Marseille soap has long been appreciated for its cleaning power and its versatile use in the home. The bicarbonate helps degrease while the soda crystals increase effectiveness on the most stubborn residues. Many consumers also like the idea of limiting plastic packaging by reusing the same container for several months. With just a few ingredients, they obtain a product considered simpler and often better tolerated for sensitive hands.
As the months go by, the savings become far from negligible. Based on a 500 ml bottle used each month, switching to this alternative would save around 30 euros per year. A seemingly modest sum, but which adds to all other daily expenses. In a context where many households are looking to reduce their budget without disrupting their habits, this home solution appears to be an attractive compromise between savings, simplicity and a more reassuring composition.
