The concept involves creating a cleaning agent for fabrics using readily available ingredients, rather than purchasing commercially produced alternatives. This usually entails combining substances like washing soda, borax, and soap flakes, adjusting the proportions to achieve the desired cleaning power and consistency. This differs from simply buying a pre-made cleaning product; the user is actively formulating and preparing the solution.
Formulating personalized cleaning solutions for clothing offers various advantages, including cost savings, control over ingredients (beneficial for individuals with sensitivities), and reduced environmental impact due to minimized packaging and potentially more sustainable components. Historically, the practice of creating household cleaning solutions was commonplace, evolving as access to commercial products increased, but now experiencing a resurgence driven by concerns about cost and environmental sustainability.