Introduction
Keeping a clean home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With some clever tricks and inexpensive ingredients, you can get your house spotless on a budget. Read on to discover my favorite money-saving cleaning hacks that will help you get more for your money.
Use Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda are two of the most versatile and affordable cleaning products. You likely already have them in your pantry.
Vinegar
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Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. It can be used to clean countertops, floors, windows, and more. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner.
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To scrub tile floors or grout, mix 1 cup vinegar with 1 gallon warm water. This solution cleans and removes soap scum.
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Shine stainless steel appliances with undiluted white vinegar. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away smudges.
Baking Soda
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Sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming to absorb odors and lift stains. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before vacuuming.
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Mix baking soda with a little water to form a gentle scrubbing paste. Use it to clean sinks, tubs, tile, and more.
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Deodorize the fridge by leaving an open box of baking soda inside for a few days. Replace monthly.
Opt for Natural Cleaners
You can make effective cleaning solutions using common kitchen ingredients like lemon, salt, and castile soap. Going natural is better for your health and the environment.
Lemon Juice
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A paste of lemon juice and salt cuts through grease, soap scum, and hard water stains. Scrub sinks and showers with this mix.
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Brighten metal surfaces like bronze or copper by rubbing a lemon half over them. The acid removes tarnish.
Castile Soap
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Add a few drops of unscented castile soap to a bucket of water for an all-purpose floor cleaner. Works on tile, vinyl, and wood floors.
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Mix 1 teaspoon soap with 2 cups water in a spray bottle. Use it to clean counterops, windows, and mirrors.
Hydrogen Peroxide
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Disinfect and remove stains from plastic food storage containers with hydrogen peroxide. Let them soak for 10 minutes, then rinse.
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Add 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to a load of whites for brightening and disinfecting. It’s a green alternative to bleach.
DIY Your Own Cleaning Supplies
With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up frugal homemade cleaners that rival store-bought brands. Here are some of my favorite recipes:
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/2 gallon warm water
Mix ingredients in a bucket. Use on sinks, countertops, floors, appliances, etc.
Glass & Mirror Cleaner
- 1/4 cup vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 quart warm water
Mix in a spray bottle. Spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper.
Tub & Shower Scrub
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 2 tablespoons liquid castile soap
- 10 drops essential oil (optional)
Mix to form a paste. Scrub onto surfaces and rinse clean.
Be Strategic With Professional Cleanings
While DIY cleaning can save you money day-to-day, some tasks are best left to the pros. Prioritize annual professional cleanings for:
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Air ducts: Helps improve indoor air quality and airflow.
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Carpets: Deep cleans in a way home machines can’t match.
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Windows: Provides thorough cleaning, especially for hard-to-reach second story windows.
Conclusion
You don’t need fancy cleaners or expensive services to get a spotless home. With a little creativity and strategic thinking, you can clean your entire house on the cheap. Next time you need to scrub the grout or polish the floors, reach for an inexpensive homemade solution. Your wallet and the environment will thank you.
