First the World Famous laundry gloop...It's very easy to make and costs a couple of quid for a few months supply. You will need:-

A large tub capable of holding about 4 litres and with a good fitting lid (or a few smaller tubs)
A 5 litre stock pot (for ease of use) or any old pan.
1 bar unscented white soap - something like Simple or a supermarket own brand sensitive soap
1 cup (250mls) washing soda crystals - usually on the cleaning not the laundry aisle of the shops
4 litres water
About 20 drops of a suitable essential oil. I use lavender and chamomile but any oils safe for children will be fine

Stock pot method

Put the water in the pot and bring to the boil. Grate the soap and once the water has boiled, put it in and turn the heat down. Stir until all the soap has dissolved. Take off the heat and add the soda crystals stirring until these have dissolved. Ignore until it is cool enough to safely handle then decant into your tub(s) Add essential oils.

Pan method

Bring about 1 pint of water to the boil and add grated soap. Fill a washing up bowl with 3.5 litres of VERY hot water. Once soap has dissolved pour into the hot water and stir. Add soda crystals and then carry on as above.
I use about half a teacup for each load and if things get a little grey then I add in a dose of Ecover laundry bleach to brighten them up again.

CAUTION

A couple of people have had some problems with the gloop and machine blockages. It is highly recommended that you put the gloop directly into the DRUM not the drawer. If it's hard - chop it into small pieces first so that it melts easier.

Thanks