Ever feel overwhelmed by the endless shelves of cleaning products at the store? Or wonder what’s actually in them? You’re not alone. Many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals that aren’t great for your health or the environment. But here’s the good news—you don’t need them!
With just a few simple, natural ingredients (that you likely already have at home), you can make powerful, affordable, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions that actually work. Plus, many of these ingredients can be bought in bulk, saving you money while reducing waste.
Easy DIY Cleaning Recipes
All-Purpose Cleaner
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Add a few drops of essential oil (optional) for a fresh scent.
- Shake well before use.
Great for countertops, tile floors, windows, and stainless steel! (Check out the vinegar section below for more details.)
All-Purpose Cleaner for Acid-Sensitive Surfaces
- Mix 2 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of castile soap.
- Shake well before use.
Safe for marble, granite, and other surfaces that don’t react well to vinegar.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- Pour 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub and flush.
Oven Cleaner
- Mix baking soda and water to form a paste.
- Spread inside the oven and let sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Scrub away grime with a sponge or brush.
Furniture Polish
- Combine 1/4 cup vinegar with 1/4 cup olive oil.
- Add a few drops of lemon essential oil for fragrance.
- Shake well and apply with a soft cloth.
Perfect for keeping wooden furniture looking its best!
Do’s & Don’ts for Safe & Effective DIY Cleaning
Do:
✔ Label your homemade cleaners and store them safely.
✔ Test new cleaning solutions on a small area first.
✔ Use hot water to help dissolve ingredients.
Don’t:
✖ Use abrasive ingredients like baking soda on delicate surfaces.
✖ Overdo it with essential oils—just a few drops go a long way!
✖ Store homemade cleaners for too long; they work best when fresh.
The Power of Vinegar (and When Not to Use It)
Vinegar is a superstar in natural cleaning—it cuts through grime, deodorizes, and removes stains. But it’s important to use it wisely!
Vinegar Do’s:
✔ Use it for glass, tile, and non-porous surfaces.
✔ Dilute it with water (start with a 1:1 ratio).
✔ Try it on hard water stains and soap scum.
Vinegar Don’ts:
✖ Never mix vinegar with bleach—it creates toxic fumes!
✖ Don’t use it on natural stone (granite, marble), hardwood floors, or electronics.
✖ Avoid vinegar on rubber parts and aluminum or cast iron cookware.
Making your own natural cleaning solutions is an easy way to create a healthier home while saving money and reducing waste. Start small, experiment with these recipes, and enjoy a clean, fresh space—without the chemicals!
Got a favorite DIY cleaner? Let me know—I’d love to hear what works for you!