Homemade Fabric Softener

I am always looking for more ways to save money. Making my own fabric softener is one of those ways. Personally, I prefer lavender fragranced fabric softener, but most of these are costly. So now I can get the fragranced softener that I want at a lower cost. The quality of the homemade softener is good also. Using vinegar and baking soda does not leave a residue in your clothes as does commercial softeners. The following recipe can be made in about 5 minutes and yields about 15 cups:

1 cup baking soda
6 cups distilled white vinegar
8 cups water
10-15 drops of essential oil of your choice (optional)

*You will need a one gallon container (open container is best because of chemical reaction of baking soda and vinegar).

*First add the baking soda to the plastic container.

*Add 1 cup of water to start with.

*Slowly add the vinegar to the bottle as the vinegar and baking soda will start to fizz.

*Then, add the rest of the water.

*Last, add the essential oil.

*Pour the softener in a clean gallon size container with a lid.

Directions for use:
Always shake the bottle before using if essential oil was added. Add 1 cup in your final rinse cycle for each load.