10 DIY Home Cleaning Recipes That Actually Work
- Shwetha Rani
- Sep 14, 2023
- 14 min read
Clean Your Way With Homecrafted Cleaning Solutions!
Keeping your home clean is a priority, but the concern over harsh chemicals has many of us looking for a DIY approach. In this guide, we're diving into ten tried-and-true DIY home cleaning recipes that get the job done.
These DIY cleaning solutions offer a fantastic alternative in today's world, where sustainability and eco-friendliness matter. They let you customize your cleaning products while reducing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Plus, they're often budget-friendly, putting you in control of your household cleaning.
Get ready to simplify your cleaning routine and embrace a cleaner, greener, and healthier home with these DIY cleaning recipes that get the job done.
Topics At a Glance
Let's Get Ready
Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into the world of DIY home cleaning recipes, it's essential to assemble the right tools for the job. Having the proper supplies on hand will make your cleaning tasks more efficient and effective. Here's a list of items you'll want to have at the ready:
Spray Bottles: These are the workhorses of homemade cleaning solutions. Opt for good quality spray bottles with adjustable nozzles to control the spray pattern.
Microfiber Cloths: These are ideal for wiping and dusting surfaces without leaving streaks or lint behind. These soft microfiber cloths are also washable and reusable, thereby reducing waste.
Empty Containers: You'll need a few empty containers to store your cleaning solutions. Mason jars, glass bottles, or plastic containers with lids work well. Make sure that these containers are thick and are airtight.
Label Maker or Labels: Properly labeling cleaning solutions is crucial for safety and convenience. A label maker or pre-made labels will do this job perfectly. Otherwise, grab your permanent marker and mark out your containers!
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for creating effective cleaning recipes. Measuring cups and spoons from your kitchen come to your rescue!
Funnels: A funnel will help you pour your homemade cleaning solutions into containers without spilling.
The Most Common Ingredients
Embarking on your DIY home cleaning journey is exciting, but it's essential to have the right ingredients in your cleaning arsenal. These are the star players, the essential components that make your homemade cleaning recipes a success. Here's what you need to round up before you begin mixing and concocting:
1. Essential Oils: These are your secret weapons. Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus offer natural fragrances and powerful cleaning properties. They'll add that extra sparkle to your recipes.
2. Castile Soap: The gentle giant of cleaning agents, castile soap is biodegradable, versatile, and plant-based. It's a must-have for several DIY cleaning solutions.
3. Baking Soda: It's not just for baking! Baking soda is a superstar when it comes to cleaning. It scrubs, deodorizes, and lifts stains naturally.
4. Vinegar: White vinegar is a versatile acidic wonder. It cuts through grease, disinfects surfaces, and leaves your home smelling fresh.
5. Lemons: These citrus heroes provide a burst of freshness. Lemon juice is a natural bleach and deodorizer, ideal for green cleaning.
6. Cornstarch: Perfect for polishing glass and surfaces, cornstarch adds a streak-free shine to your cleaning routine.
7. Rubbing Alcohol: An excellent sanitizer and degreaser, rubbing alcohol is a handy ingredient for various DIY cleaners.
8. Olive Oil: In combination with some other ingredients, olive oil can become a powerful furniture polish.
With these supplies at your fingertips, you're ready to mix, blend, and concoct your way to a cleaner, greener home. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in these effective and eco-friendly cleaning recipes. Let's dive in and discover how to put them to good use.
General Precautions and Tips
Here are some essential precautions and tips for safe and effective DIY cleaning:
1. Label Clearly: Always label your homemade cleaning products, along with their ingredients to avoid mix-ups.
2. Proper Storage: Store solutions in a cool, dark place away from extreme temperatures and sunlight.
3. Safety First: Keep DIY cleaners out of reach of kids and pets; they can still be harmful.
4. Patch Test: Test new surfaces to prevent damage or discoloration, especially for delicate materials like marble.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse surfaces to remove any residue, especially on areas in contact with food.
6. Essential Oils: Use pure, high-quality essential oils for the best results.
7. Ventilate: Ensure good ventilation when using DIY cleaners, especially those with vinegar or alcohol.
8. Mix as Needed: Some solutions work best when mixed just before use, so avoid making large batches.
9. Follow Recipes: Stick to the specified measurements and ingredients to maintain cleaning power and safety.
10. Disposal: Dispose of homemade cleaners responsibly, following local regulations.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy effective and eco-friendly cleaning with peace of mind.
DIY Home Cleaning Recipes That Actually Work
1. All-Purpose Home Cleaner Spray With Essential Oils
Tired of a cluttered cleaning cabinet? Simplify your life with this versatile, all-natural all-purpose cleaner. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also effective, eco-friendly, and free of harsh chemicals. Let's get started.
What You'll Need
1 cup distilled water
1 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons baking soda
10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (eg. lavender, lemon, tea tree, or eucalyptus)
A clean and empty spray bottle
The Procedure
In a mixing bowl or jug, combine the distilled water and white vinegar. These two ingredients will form the base of your cleaner.
Slowly add the baking soda to the mixture. Be cautious, as it may fizz up briefly. Stir until the baking soda is fully dissolved.
Now, it's time to infuse your cleaner with a delightful fragrance. Add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil. This not only imparts a lovely scent but also enhances the cleaning power of your solution.
Carefully pour the mixture into your clean, empty spray bottle. A funnel may come in handy here.
Seal the spray bottle tightly with its cap or nozzle.
How To Use
Countertops: Spray, wipe, and watch as stains and grime disappear.
Kitchen Appliances: Keep your oven, microwave, and refrigerator sparkling clean.
Bathroom Surfaces: Tackle soap scum, hard water stains, and toilet messes with ease.
Glass and Mirrors: Achieve a streak-free shine on windows, mirrors, and glass tabletops.
Floors: Mix 1/4 cup of your cleaner with a gallon of warm water for mopping.
Essential Tips
Store your homemade cleaner in a cool, dark place. Essential oils can deteriorate when exposed to direct sunlight.
Always label your spray bottle with the contents and date of preparation for safety and easy identification.
Test your cleaner in an inconspicuous spot before using it on delicate or sensitive surfaces to ensure compatibility.
For stubborn stains or tougher cleaning jobs, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping it away.
2. All-Purpose Lemon Degreaser
Banish grease and grime with this zesty homemade lemon degreaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a potent cleaner that's perfect for kitchen appliances, stovetops, and more.
What You'll Need
2 cups white vinegar
2 cups water
2 lemons
A clean, empty spray bottle
A pot or saucepan
The Procedure
Begin by extracting lemon juice from the two lemons. You can use a citrus juicer or simply squeeze them by hand. Aim for about 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice.
In a pot or saucepan, combine the lemon juice, white vinegar, and water. This forms the foundation of your lemon degreaser.
Heat the mixture on the stove until it's almost boiling. Remove it from heat once you see small bubbles forming.
Allow the mixture to cool down completely.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the cooled liquid into your clean, empty spray bottle.
How To Use
Kitchen Appliances: Spray on stovetops, ovens, microwaves, and more. Wipe away stubborn grease and leave a refreshing lemon scent.
Countertops: Give your kitchen countertops a clean, fresh look by spraying this solution and wiping it clean.
Range Hoods: Rid your range hood of sticky, greasy residue with ease.
3. Kitchen Cleaner and Deodorizer
Keep your kitchen sparkling clean and smelling fresh with this homemade kitchen cleaner and deodorizer. With just a few natural ingredients, you can conquer grease and grime while leaving a pleasant scent behind.
What You'll Need
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
1 lemon (or lemon juice)
1 tablespoon baking soda
A clean, empty spray bottle
The Procedure
Begin by cutting the lemon in half. Squeeze the juice from one half into a bowl. Remove any seeds. If you don't have a fresh lemon, you can substitute it with lemon juice. About 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice will work.
In the same bowl, add the white vinegar and water. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
In a separate container, add the baking soda. Slowly pour in the liquid mixture while stirring. You may notice some fizzing as the baking soda reacts with the acidic lemon juice.
Continue stirring until the baking soda is fully dissolved.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into your clean, empty spray bottle.
How to Use
Countertops: Spray the solution onto your kitchen countertops and wipe them clean. It's effective at removing stains and grease.
Sink and Faucet: Give your sink and faucet a quick spritz to remove water stains and leave a lemony-fresh scent.
Stovetop: Use it to clean your stovetop and remove stubborn, greasy spots.
4. Homemade Glass and Window Cleaner
Say goodbye to streaks and smudges on your glass surfaces with this easy-to-make homemade glass cleaner. Using just a few ingredients, you'll achieve sparkling clean windows, mirrors, and glass tabletops.
What You'll Need
1 cup distilled white vinegar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
A clean, empty spray bottle
A lint-free microfiber cloth or paper towels
The Procedure
Begin by adding the distilled white vinegar and water to a mixing bowl.
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the vinegar-water mixture until the cornstarch dissolves completely. This step helps to prevent streaks on your glass surfaces.
Pour the cornstarch mixture into the larger bowl containing the vinegar-water mixture and stir well.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the solution into your clean, empty spray bottle.
How to Use
Spray the homemade glass cleaner directly onto the glass surface you wish to clean.
Wipe the glass with a lint-free microfiber cloth or paper towel in a circular motion until the glass is clear and streak-free.
Essential Tips
Ensure that the glass is cool to the touch before applying the cleaner to prevent it from drying too quickly and leaving streaks.
This homemade glass cleaner is safe for most glass surfaces, including windows, mirrors, glass tabletops, and glass cabinet doors. However, it's always wise to do a spot test in an inconspicuous area before using any new cleaner on surfaces to ensure compatibility.
5. DIY Wood Furniture Spray
Keep your wood furniture looking its best with this simple homemade wood furniture spray. With just a few natural ingredients, you can clean, polish, and protect your wooden surfaces, enhancing their natural beauty.
What You'll Need
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
10-15 drops of lemon essential oil (optional, for fragrance)
A clean, empty spray bottle
A soft, lint-free microfiber cloth
The Procedure
Begin by adding the distilled white vinegar and olive oil to a mixing bowl.
If desired, add the lemon essential oil to the mixture for a pleasant fragrance and extra cleaning power.
Stir the ingredients well to ensure they're thoroughly combined.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the solution into your clean, empty spray bottle.
How To Use
Shake the homemade wood furniture spray well before each use.
Spray a small amount directly onto a soft, lint-free cloth, rather than directly onto the furniture, to avoid overspray.
Wipe down the wood surface in the direction of the grain, using gentle, even strokes.
Essential Tips
For best results, avoid using excessive amounts of the spray, as a little goes a long way. Too much product can leave your furniture feeling oily or sticky.
Always dust your wooden furniture before applying the spray to remove any loose dirt or debris.
This homemade wood furniture spray is ideal for regular maintenance and cleaning of your wood furniture. For deep cleaning or treating specific issues like scratches or water stains, you may need specialized products or treatments.
6. Homemade Scouring Powder
When it comes to tackling tough kitchen and bathroom stains, a homemade scouring powder can be a game-changer. This simple yet effective DIY cleaner will leave your surfaces sparkling clean without harsh chemicals.
What You'll Need
1 cup baking soda
1/4 cup table salt
1/4 cup borax (optional)
10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (e.g., lemon, tea tree, or lavender) for a fresh scent
A clean, empty shaker or container
The Procedure
In a mixing bowl, combine the baking soda, table salt, and borax if you choose to use it. Borax adds an extra kick to the cleaning power.
Add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil to the mixture. This not only adds a pleasant fragrance but also enhances the cleaning properties.
Stir the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of the essential oil.
Transfer the mixture to a clean, empty shaker or container. An old spice container or Parmesan cheese shaker works well for this purpose.
How To Use
Sprinkle the homemade scouring powder on the surface you wish to clean.
Use a damp sponge or scrubbing brush to scrub the area, applying gentle pressure as needed.
Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe clean with a damp cloth.
7. Homemade Sink Cleaning Solution
A clean and shiny sink can instantly improve the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom. This homemade sink cleaning solution is a quick and effective way to remove stains and bring back the sparkle.
What You'll Need
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup white vinegar
10-15 drops of lemon essential oil (or your preferred essential oil)
A soft sponge or cloth
A small bowl
A clean, dry cloth
The Procedure
Start by sprinkling the baking soda evenly over the surface of your sink.
In a small bowl, combine the white vinegar and essential oil. Lemon essential oil is a great choice for its fresh scent and natural cleaning properties.
Slowly pour the vinegar mixture over the baking soda. You'll notice a fizzing reaction as the two ingredients combine.
Allow the mixture to sit in the sink for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the combination of baking soda and vinegar will work to break down stains and grime.
After the waiting period, use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub the sink's surface. Pay special attention to any stubborn spots or stains.
Rinse the sink thoroughly with warm water to remove all residue.
How To Use
For regular maintenance, use this homemade sink cleaning solution once a week to keep your sink looking its best.
If your sink has particularly stubborn stains or mineral deposits, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Essential Tips
Lemon essential oil not only adds a pleasant scent but also has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. Feel free to use other essential oils if you prefer a different fragrance.
Always rinse your sink thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue. A clean, dry cloth can be used to buff the sink to a shine.
Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads or steel wool, as they can scratch the sink's surface.
This homemade sink cleaning solution is safe for most sink materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, and enamel. However, always check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific care instructions.
8. Homemade Shower and Drain Cleaner
Keeping your shower and drain clean and free from soap scum and clogs is essential for a relaxing bathing experience. This homemade cleaner will help you maintain a fresh and smoothly flowing shower.
What You'll Need
1 cup baking soda
1 cup white vinegar
10-15 drops of tea tree essential oil (or your preferred essential oil)
A plastic squeeze bottle (or a funnel and an empty, clean ketchup bottle)
A kettle (for boiling water)
A cloth or sponge
The Procedure
Begin by removing any items from your shower, such as shampoo bottles or soap dishes.
Pour the baking soda down the drain in your shower.
Next, pour the vinegar down the drain. You will notice a bubbling reaction as the two ingredients interact. This reaction helps break down soap scum and other debris in the drain.
Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to work its magic.
While waiting, fill your kettle with water and bring it to a boil.
After the waiting period, carefully pour the boiling water down the drain. This will flush away the loosened debris and ensure the drain is clear.
If you like, you can mix 10-15 drops of tea tree essential oil into the mixture for added freshness and antimicrobial properties.
How To Use
Use this homemade shower and drain cleaner once a month for regular maintenance to prevent clogs and keep your shower smelling fresh.
If you're dealing with a stubborn clog, you can repeat the process or use a drain snake to remove the blockage.
Essential Tips
Tea tree essential oil is a popular choice for its natural antibacterial properties and fresh scent. Feel free to use other essential oils you prefer.
Never mix vinegar and commercial drain cleaners, as this can produce harmful fumes. Stick to one method or the other.
To prevent clogs in the first place, consider using a hair catcher in your shower drain to trap hair and debris.
If you have a septic system, this homemade cleaner is a safer choice compared to chemical drain cleaners, which can harm septic tanks.
9. Homemade Disinfectant Spray
Creating your own homemade disinfectant spray is a convenient way to keep your home clean and free from harmful germs without the need for harsh chemicals. This recipe utilizes natural ingredients and essential oils to effectively disinfect various surfaces.
What You'll Need
1 cup of water
1/4 cup of white vinegar
1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol (at least 70% isopropyl alcohol)
15-20 drops of essential oils (e.g., tea tree, lavender, lemon, eucalyptus)
A clean spray bottle
The Procedure
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your spray bottle if it's been used for other substances previously.
Combine the water, white vinegar, and rubbing alcohol in a mixing bowl.
Add 15-20 drops of your chosen essential oils. Tea tree oil is a popular choice for its strong antimicrobial properties, but you can also use others like lavender for a pleasant scent, lemon for additional cleaning power, or eucalyptus for a fresh aroma.
Stir the mixture well to ensure all the ingredients are blended.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into your clean spray bottle.
Secure the spray nozzle and give the bottle a gentle shake to mix the ingredients once more.
How to Use
Spray the homemade disinfectant on surfaces you wish to clean and disinfect. Ensure that you cover the entire surface evenly.
Allow the disinfectant to sit on the surface for a few minutes (around 5-10 minutes) to effectively kill germs and bacteria.
Wipe down the surface with a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel.
Essential Tips
Do not use this spray on sensitive surfaces like marble, granite, or certain electronics, as the alcohol can potentially damage them. Test a small, inconspicuous area first.
Make a fresh batch of disinfectant spray every few weeks to ensure its effectiveness.
This homemade disinfectant is suitable for surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom fixtures. If you need a disinfectant for cutting boards or food preparation areas, consider using a food-safe commercial disinfectant or a vinegar and water solution.
10. Homemade Marble Floor Cleaner
Marble is a beautiful and luxurious material, but it requires special care to maintain its elegance. This homemade marble cleaner recipe offers an effective and safe solution to clean and preserve your marble surfaces.
What You'll Need
1/4 cup of isopropyl alcohol
1/4 cup of water
A few drops of mild dish soap
A clean spray bottle
A microfiber cloth or any soft, lint-free cloth
The Procedure
Begin by cleaning your spray bottle thoroughly if it's been used for other cleaning products.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of isopropyl alcohol and 1/4 cup of water.
Add a few drops of mild dish soap to the mixture. Make sure it's a gentle dish soap without any harsh chemicals or abrasives.
Stir the ingredients together gently to create your homemade marble cleaner.
Using a funnel, pour the mixture into your clean spray bottle.
Secure the spray nozzle and give the bottle a gentle shake to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
How to Use
Before using the homemade marble cleaner, dust or wipe off any loose dirt or debris from the marble surface.
Spray a small amount of the cleaner onto the marble surface you want to clean.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the surface, paying special attention to any stains or spots. Avoid using abrasive materials or scrubbing vigorously, as this can damage the marble.
For stubborn stains, let the cleaner sit on the surface for a few minutes to help lift the stain.
Rinse the cloth with clean water and wring it out, then wipe down the marble again to remove any soap residue.
Essential Tips
Always use a soft, non-abrasive cloth or sponge when cleaning marble to prevent scratches or damage.
Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, such as vinegar or lemon juice, as these can etch the marble's surface.
Regularly seal your marble surfaces to protect them from stains and damage. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate marble sealer to use.
If you're unsure about how your marble will react to any cleaning product, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining.
Wrapping Up - Homemade Cleaning Recipes That Actually Work
There you have it - a collection of easy, effective, and eco-friendly homemade cleaning recipes that actually work. With just a few common ingredients and a little effort, you can maintain a clean and healthy home while reducing your environmental footprint.
So, why not give these DIY cleaning solutions a try? Not only will your home sparkle, but you'll also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly what's in your cleaning products.
Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to a fresher, cleaner home. Happy cleaning!
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