It’s time to do some spring cleaning, but what if you’re not a fan of the cleaning chemicals on the market? Well, you can make your own of course! By using a few things you already have around the house or some affordable alternatives, you can make natural cleaners that are not only environmentally friendly but effective too. You might even be able to get a little creative so your home smells exactly the way you want it to.
8 Natural Cleaners You Can Make At Home
1. All-Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients
- ¾ cup water
- ¼ cup rubbing alcohol
- 5 – 10 drops of peppermint, lemon, or orange essential oil
- 1 squirt of natural dish soap
Use:
- Combine all the ingredients in a 16-oz spray bottle.
- When you’re ready, you can spray the solution on any surface and wipe it with a soft cloth.
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2. All-Purpose Degreaser
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon natural liquid soap
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
Use:
- Combine the ingredients in a 24-oz spray bottle.
- When you’re ready, you can spray the solution on any surface and wipe it with a soft cloth.
3. Vinegar-Based Disinfectant
Ingredients
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup unflavored vodka
- 10 drops of lemon essential oil
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
- 1 ½ cups water
Use:
- Combine the ingredients in a 24-oz spray bottle.
- When you’re ready, spray it on any surface and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- After the time has passed, wipe it off with a soft cloth.
4. Disinfectant Wipes
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup with vinegar
- 8 drops of tea tree oil
- 8 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- 8 drops of lemon essential oil
- 15 – 20 squares of cloth such as old t-shirts or dishtowels
Use:
- Place the squares of cloth in an old wipes container.
- Combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl then pour the solution over the cloth.
- Close the container until ready for use. The cloth can be washed and reused.
5. Mirror and Glass Cleaner
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol
- 5 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 1 tablespoon of corn starch (optional)
Use:
- Combine all the ingredients in a 24-oz bottle.
- When you’re ready, spray the solution on a soft cloth and apply it to the surface you want to clean.
6. Hardwood Cleaner
Ingredients
- ½ cup white vinegar
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 2 to 3 drops of lemon essential oil
Use:
- Combine all the ingredients in a 2-gallon bucket.
- Dip a mop into the solution and wipe the floors.
- Repeat as necessary.
7. Mold and Mildew Cleaner
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons tea-tree oil
- ¼ cup baking soda
Use:
- Combine water and oil in a 24-oz spray bottle.
- Spray the affected area with the solution and allow it to sit for 24 hours.
- After that time passes, place the baking soda in a bowl and spray with the solution until it forms a paste.
- Apply the paste to the affected area and scrub.
- Rinse the area.
8. Heavy Duty Kitchen Cleaner
Ingredients
- ¼ cup natural dish soap
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 5 drops clove essential oil
- About 3 drops of water
Use:
- Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Apply the mixture using the gritty side of a double-sided sponge.
- Wipe away the mixture with a wet cloth.
Though these are natural, you still need to be careful about using certain products together as unwanted reactions can happen. The best thing to do is to use each product one at a time and ensure that you’re working in proper ventilation. If you don’t want to use spray bottles, you can always use a regular bottle that allows you to pour the solution on the surface you want to clean or disinfect.