Ditch the Chemicals: DIY Natural Cleaning Solutions

Introduction

Over the years, I’ve become more and more concerned about the ingredients in conventional cleaning products. Many contain synthetic fragrances, preservatives, surfactants and solvents that can be harmful to our health and the environment. That’s why I decided to ditch the chemicals and make my own natural cleaning solutions using simple, plant-based ingredients I can feel good about using in my home.

In this article, I’ll share my favorite DIY natural cleaning recipes and tips to help you easily make the switch too! You’ll be amazed at how well these homemade cleaners work. Plus, you’ll avoid exposure to the nasty chemicals found in many conventional cleaners.

Benefits of Natural Cleaning Solutions

Here are some of the main benefits of using natural cleaning products:

• Safer for health: No exposure to harsh chemicals that can cause asthma, allergies, headaches and other health issues. The ingredients in DIY cleaners are non-toxic and gentle.

• Kid and pet friendly: You don’t have to worry if kids or pets are exposed to plant-based cleaning solutions. No chemical fumes or residues to harm their little bodies.

• Cost effective: Making your own cleaners is so affordable compared to buying conventional products. All you need are a few simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils.

• Eco-friendly: Natural cleaning recipes don’t contain chemicals that pollute waterways and the environment. The ingredients break down naturally without harm.

• Effective cleaning power: While they are gentle, natural cleaners made with acidic vinegar and abrasive baking soda actually clean incredibly well. I’ve been so impressed with how my DIY solutions tackle tough grease, soap scum and stains without any harsh chemicals.

Equipment/Ingredients Needed

Cleaning with natural products is super easy. Here is the basic homemade cleaner starter kit:

• White vinegar: The acid in vinegar helps dissolve grease, soap scum, hard water deposits and stains. It has antibacterial properties too.

• Baking soda: Works as a gentle scrubbing powder to lift dirt. Helps deodorize and neutralize odors naturally.

• Lemon juice: Disinfects and cuts through grease. Leaves a streak-free shine.

• Essential oils: Add anti-microbial and fresh, natural scents. Tea tree, lavender, orange and lemon oils work great.

• Castile soap: Made from plant oils. Use as a natural surfactant to help lift dirt from surfaces. Dr. Bronner’s is a good brand.

• Spray bottles: For mixing and storing cleaning solutions. Easy to dispense recipes around the home.

• Microfiber cloths: Lift and trap dirt without chemicals. Reusable and washable.

All-Purpose Natural Cleaner Recipe

My go-to natural cleaner recipe tackles most jobs around the house. Here’s how I make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1⁄4 cup vinegar
• 1⁄4 cup baking soda
• 10 drops lemon essential oil

Instructions:

1. Fill spray bottle with 2 cups water.

2. Add 1⁄4 cup vinegar and 1⁄4 cup baking soda. The mixture will fizz – let it settle.

3. Add 10 drops lemon oil for a fresh, clean scent. Shake gently to mix.

4. Spray onto surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or sponge.

The vinegar, baking soda and lemon oil work together to clean, disinfect and deodorize without any harsh chemicals. I use this homemade solution for cleaning countertops, appliances, floors, bathrooms, windows and mirrors.

More Natural Cleaning Solutions

Beyond the basic all-purpose cleaner recipe, here are a few more of my go-to DIY natural cleaning solutions:

Kitchen Degreaser

• 2 tsp Dr. Bronner’s castile soap
• 2 cups hot water
• 15 drops tea tree oil

Spray on sink, stovetop, oven hoods, etc. to remove tough grease buildup. The heat helps cut through oils.

Bathroom Disinfectant

• 2 cups water
• 1⁄4 cup vinegar
• 20 drops lavender oil

Great for sanitizing sinks, toilets and tiles without chemicals like bleach. Kills bacteria and removes soap scum.

Wood Furniture Polish

• 3 parts olive oil
• 1 part lemon juice

Mix and apply a thin layer to wood. Polish with a dry cloth. Conditions and adds a natural shine.

Glass & Window Cleaner

• 2 cups water
• 1⁄4 cup vinegar
• 1 tbsp corn starch

Spray and wipe for streak-free windows and mirrors. Corn starch helps polish.

Tips for Making Natural Cleaners Work

Here are my top tips for getting great results from natural cleaning solutions:

• Use microfiber cloths that can lift up and trap dirt easily.

• Try a soft-bristled scrub brush on tough gunk and stains. Let solutions sit to penetrate grime before wiping.

• Use warm or hot water when possible to help dissolve and cut through oils and grease.

• Spray cleaners directly onto surfaces rather than on the cloth. This helps maximize contact time and cleaning power.

• Shake mixtures frequently as the ingredients can separate. Oils in particular need a good shake before use.

• Store cleaners in spray bottles under the sink or in a caddy to make recipes accessible for quick cleaning sessions.

Final Thoughts

With just a few simple plant-based ingredients, you can easily make safe, eco-friendly, and effective cleaners for your home.

I absolutely love knowing exactly what’s in my cleaning products now. Plus it saves so much money!

Once you get the basics down, you can customize natural cleaning recipes with your favorite essential oil scents.

I hope these DIY cleaner recipes and tips inspire you to ditch the chemicals and enjoy the benefits of green cleaning too. Your body and home will thank you!