5 DIY Cleaning Solutions You Need to Know About

Having a clean and tidy home has nothing but upsides, however cleaning with multiple products can be expensive and harmful to the environment. If you are looking to save money, simple ingredients from the pantry can be used to make cleaning products for a fraction of the cost. Not only can you save money but there are also lots of benefits to making your own cleaning products.

The Benefits of Natural, DIY Cleaning Solutions

One of the biggest benefits of homemade or non-toxic cleaners is that they are perfectly safe around children so you don’t have to be concerned with locking them away from your children or hiding them in a cupboard. Non-toxic cleaners can also keep the air you and your family breathe clean as unfortunately most store-bought cleaners are full of toxic chemicals.

Another benefit is that homemade cleaners don’t harm the environment unlike conventional cleaning products that can easily seep into the sewer system which can affect wildlife and other natural resources. Lastly DIY cleaners are much, much cheaper. Most basic cleaning recipes require the same basic ingredients, and they can likely be found in your pantry already. A simple batch of all-purpose cleaner can cost as little as a dollar.

Our Top 5 DIY Cleaning Solutions

Now that you know the benefits of making your own cleaning products here are our top 5 safe ingredients we recommend. We also share our cleaning tips so you can see how to use the ingredient when you’re cleaning!

1. Diluted or Undiluted White Vinegar

White vinegar is mildly acidic dissolving dirt and soap scum from smooth surfaces. White vinegar is also a natural deodoriser, absorbing odours instead of covering them up, so it’s ideal for use in the kitchen. Undiluted white vinegar can also be used straight from the jug for tougher cleaning problems involving hard water deposits or stubborn soap scum.

Cleaning tip: to make an all-purpose cleaner, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. You can add a few drops of essential oil (like lemon, lavender, or tea tree) for scent and extra cleaning power. Avoid using on marble, granite and waxed wood as the acidity can damage these surfaces.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda has mild abrasive and natural deodorising properties which makes it a powerful replacement for harsh commercial scouring powders. Simply sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge to tackle a grimy bathtub or vanity unit.

Cleaning tip: make a paste with baking soda and a little water to clean sinks, tubs, and countertops. It’s gentle enough for many surfaces without scratching. Use this paste and a little dish soap to scrub away grease on cooktops and in pans.

3. Lemon Juice

Lemons are high in citric acid which makes lemon juice one of the best natural cleaners due to its low pH and antibacterial properties. Lemons also smell great and are unlikely to cause damage to materials around what you are cleaning such as fabric or wood. Simply use lemon juice and an old toothbrush to scrub grout or keep your lemon peels to make an all-purpose cleaner.

Cleaning tip: use lemon juice as a hard water stain remover around faucets and showerheads. Let it sit for a while before scrubbing.

4. Essential Oils like Eucalyptus & Lavender Oil

Eucalyptus and lavender oils offer natural, environmentally friendly cleaning solutions with delightful scents. Eucalyptus, known for its fresh, clean aroma and disinfectant properties, is ideal for kitchen and bathroom use when diluted with water. Lavender, with its light floral scent and antibacterial properties, excels as a homemade cleaner for surfaces and acts as a wonderful deodoriser in laundry when a few drops are added to the wash.

Cleaning tip: boost cleaning power by adding a few drops of Eucalyptus oil to your vinegar or all-purpose cleaning solutions. Mix a few drops of Lavender oil with water in a spray bottle to create a natural air freshener.

5. Dish Soap (Natural, Phosphate-Free)

Natural, phosphate-free dish soap is a key ingredient in DIY cleaning due to its ability to effectively cut through grease and lift stubborn dirt from various surfaces. Opting for a mild formula without harsh chemicals ensures a safer and more environmentally conscious approach to cleaning around your home. Its gentle yet powerful action makes it a versatile base for many homemade cleaning solutions.

Cleaning tip: a few drops of natural dish soap diluted in water creates an effective all-purpose cleaner for various surfaces, while a tiny amount in warm water serves as a gentle floor cleaner for wood and laminate, being mindful of using minimal water on wood.

Which DIY Cleaning Solution Will You Try Out?

With so many effective and natural options available, the choice is yours to make. Whether it’s a simple vinegar and baking soda mix or a fragrant blend with essential oils, these solutions offer a safe, eco-friendly alternative to commercial cleaners. Start experimenting today and discover the DIY cleaning solution that works best for your home and lifestyle!