Spring cleaning is a great time to declutter your home and get things sparkling clean. However, many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be bad for your health and the environment. The good news is there are plenty of effective cleaning solutions you can make at home using natural, non-toxic ingredients. Here are some of my favorite sustainable DIY spring cleaning recipes:
All-Purpose Cleaner
One of the handiest homemade cleaners is an all-purpose spray that can be used to clean countertops, appliances, floors and more. To make it, simply combine the following in a spray bottle:
- 1 cup water
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 10-15 drops essential oil (optional for scent)
This solution is safe for most surfaces and leaves things streak-free. The vinegar cuts through grease and grime, while the baking soda acts as a gentle scrubbing agent. I love using citrus essential oils like lemon or grapefruit to give it a fresh, clean smell.
Glass and Window Cleaner
Keeping windows and mirrors looking spotless is a spring cleaning must. This easy DIY formula works just as well as store-bought glass cleaners:
- 2 cups water
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol
Mix the ingredients together in a spray bottle. The vinegar cuts through dirt and grime, while the alcohol helps prevent streaking. You can also add a few drops of essential oil if desired. Simply spray directly onto glass surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or newspaper.
Wood Polish
Restoring wood furniture is so satisfying, but polishes often contain petroleum distillates, alkylphenol ethoxylates and other nasty chemicals. Instead, you can make this simple beeswax polish at home:
- 1⁄4 cup beeswax pellets
- 1 cup olive oil
- 10-15 drops lemon essential oil (optional)
Place the beeswax and olive oil in a glass jar. Set the jar in a small pot of simmering water for 15-20 minutes, until the beeswax melts completely. Let cool slightly and then add the lemon oil for its fresh, woodsy scent. Apply a small amount of the polish to wood surfaces using a clean, soft cloth and buff to a shine. The beeswax nourishes and protects the wood.
Disinfecting Cleaner
Getting rid of germs is especially important in kitchens and bathrooms. Mix up this refreshing disinfectant spray:
- 2 cups water
- 1⁄4 cup hydrogen peroxide
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 10 drops tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil
The hydrogen peroxide is the active disinfecting ingredient, while the lemon juice and essential oil add a cleansing citrus scent. Use it to thoroughly clean and disinfect surfaces like countertops, toilet seats, doorknobs and more. Just spray, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe away.
The great thing about making your own cleaning products is that you know exactly what’s in them – and you can feel good about keeping hazardous chemicals out of your home and the environment. Give these recipes a try for an eco-friendly, refreshing spring cleaning.
