Introduction
Cleaning your home with harsh chemicals can be expensive and harmful to your health. Making your own natural cleaners at home is an easy way to save money while avoiding toxic ingredients. In this article, I will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make a natural all-purpose cleaner that is safe and effective for most household surfaces.
Benefits of Natural Cleaners
There are several benefits to using natural cleaners instead of commercial chemical cleaners:
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Cost effective – Homemade cleaners are much cheaper than buying commercial cleaners. You likely already have most of the ingredients at home.
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Environmentally friendly – Natural cleaners are biodegradable and don’t contain harmful chemicals that can pollute waterways.
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Non-toxic – Natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils are non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets. Chemical cleaners often contain harsh toxins.
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Tailored for your needs – You can customize natural cleaners for the type of cleaning you need to do.
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Simple to make – Whipping up a batch of homemade cleaner takes just a few minutes.
All-Purpose Cleaner Recipe
This simple homemade all-purpose cleaner recipe contains just a few ingredients but is highly effective for cleaning most hard surfaces in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 5-10 drops essential oil (optional)
Directions
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Add the warm water, vinegar and baking soda to a spray bottle.
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Shake vigorously to dissolve the baking soda.
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Add 5-10 drops of essential oil if you want a nice scent. Good options are lemon, lavender or peppermint.
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Label the spray bottle.
That’s it! This natural cleaner is ready to use on countertops, appliances, mirrors, windows and most other hard surfaces.
Usage Tips
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Shake well before each use to combine the ingredients.
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For tough stains, let the cleaner sit for 3-5 minutes before wiping away.
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For glass surfaces, use crumpled newspaper or a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks.
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Do not use this cleaner on granite as the vinegar can etch the surface over time.
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Always spot test on an inconspicuous area before using on a new surface.
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Make sure to dilute essential oils properly to avoid damaging surfaces.
Customizing Your Homemade Cleaner
One of the great things about DIY cleaners is that you can customize the recipe to meet your specific needs. Here are some variations:
Hard Water Stain Remover
If you live in an area with hard water, the minerals can leave nasty stains on surfaces. Make a paste with baking soda and lemon juice to scrub away. Rinse and follow up with the all-purpose cleaner.
Disinfectant Cleaner
Add 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide to the all-purpose cleaner recipe for disinfecting areas like the bathroom and kitchen. The peroxide will help kill germs.
Degreaser Cleaner
For heavy grease in the kitchen, add 2 tablespoons of dawn dish soap to the all-purpose cleaner recipe before filling the spray bottle. The added surfactants will cut through oil and grime.
DIY Floor Cleaner
To make a natural floor cleaner, simply double the recipe, exclude the essential oils, and add 1 gallon of warm water to a bucket. Mop as usual.
Storing Your Homemade Cleaner
Here are some tips for storing your homemade cleaner:
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Keep in a spray bottle with a secure lid.
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Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
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Write the date you made it on the label so you know when to toss it.
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Natural cleaners will last 3-6 months when stored properly.
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If the cleaner smells funky or you notice any growth, it’s time to make a fresh batch.
Conclusion
Making your own natural all-purpose cleaner is simple, affordable and better for your health and home. Just mix baking soda, vinegar and water for a basic formula, then customize to meet your specific cleaning needs. With a few basic ingredients, you can avoid harsh chemicals and save money too. Next time you need to tidy up, grab your homemade cleaner and get your home sparkling the natural way!
