Very simple, inexpensive, homemade detergent

As soon as I can, I'm going to try these recipes.

POWDERED LAUNDRY DETERGENT:
(Each batch yields 32 ounces/64 loads using 1 T. per load)

* 2 4.5 oz. bars of bar soap--shaved/grated
(Ivory, ZOTE, Fels-Naptha, or whatever you like)
* 1 cup of borax (20 Mule Team)
* 1 cup of washing soda (Arm & Hammer)

Thoroughly stir together for 5 minutes and enjoy the results!

(found at: http://www.debtfreeadventure.com/simple-easy-fast-effective-jabs-homemade-laundry-detergent/ )

and

SLIMY GELATINOUS (aka: liquid) LAUNDRY SOAP:
(I've adjusted the recipe to make enough for 64 loads)

* 1 1/3 4.5 oz. bars of bar soap (6 oz.)--shaved/grated
(Ivory, ZOTE, Fels-Naptha, or whatever you like)
* 5 1/3 cups water
* 1 1/3 cup of washing soda (Arm & Hammer)
* 2/3 cup of borax (20 Mule Team)
* 4 gallons water
(5 gallon bucket w/ lid)

This makes enough for 64 loads, using a little over 8 oz. per load.
(The instructions are found at: http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2007/03/15/how-to-make-your-own-laundry-detergent-and-save-big-money/ )

So, I would think that you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences within the range of:

6 - 9 oz. of bar soap
1 - 1 1/3 cups washing soda
2/3 - 1 cup borax (stain fighter)

(and 4 1/3 gallons of water for gel detergent)

If you like, you can add a little fragrance oil of the type used in soaps.