homemade laundry soap????

So one of the blogs I follow (ilovemy5kids) posted today on facebook about making her own laundry detergent.  She actually got the recipe from the Duggar Website and she posted the recipe she uses.  Has anyone tried this?  I am seriously considering doing this for several reasons.  I am also thinking about using vinegar to soften loads too!

Have any of you ever made your own laundry soap? How did it turn out?

I need some input/advice here folks :)