Homemade laundry detergent can be just as effective as commercial brands in cleaning clothes. The key ingredients like borax, sodium carbonate, and soap work together to remove dirt and stains from fabrics. While some may argue that commercial detergents have more advanced formulas, DIY detergents can still provide satisfactory results at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, homemade detergents can be customized with essential oils for a pleasant scent without compromising their cleaning power.