DIY Natural Cleaners for a Healthier Home
By this point we all know that many common commercial cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our health and the environment. The good news is that making your own natural cleaning products is simple, cost-effective, and just as efficient. Below are some DIY solutions that will keep your home sparkling while also ensuring it's a safer space for you and your loved ones.*
Why Natural Cleaning Products?
Before we dive into recipes, let's explore why natural cleaning products are beneficial:
Health-Friendly: Many store-bought cleaners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to indoor air pollution and respiratory problems. Natural cleaners reduce the risk of health issues associated with these chemicals.
Eco-Conscious: Natural cleaners are biodegradable and often made from renewable resources, which means they have a smaller environmental footprint.
Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients and scents of your homemade products to suit your preferences and needs.
Cost-Effective: DIY cleaners can be made with inexpensive and readily available ingredients.
Basic Ingredients for Your DIY Cleaning Arsenal
Most natural cleaning recipes are made up of these core ingredients:
Vinegar: An excellent natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
Baking Soda: A gentle abrasive that also neutralizes odors.
Castile Soap: A plant-based soap that cuts through grease and grime.
Essential Oils: Natural oils like tea tree, lavender, and lemon not only add a pleasant aroma but also possess antibacterial properties.
Lemons: Their acidic nature makes them great for dissolving soap scum and hard water deposits.
Recipes for Natural DIY Cleaning Products
All-Purpose Cleaner:
Ingredients: 1 part water, 1 part white vinegar, lemon rind, rosemary sprigs, and lemon essential oil.
Instructions: Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle, let it infuse for a week, and use it for cleaning hard surfaces, except for granite or marble.
Glass Cleaner:
Ingredients: 2 cups of water, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol, and a few drops of peppermint essential oil.
Instructions: Mix in a spray bottle and use with a soft cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.
Heavy-Duty Scrub:
Ingredients: ½ lemon, ½ cup of borax powder.
Instructions: Dip the lemon in borax and scrub surfaces; this is especially effective for rust stains in bathrooms.
Natural Wood Polish:
Ingredients: 1 cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of white vinegar, and lemon essential oil.
Instructions: Combine ingredients in a jar or bottle, dab a soft cloth into the mixture, and polish wood surfaces. Always spot test first.
Carpet Stain Remover:
Ingredients: White vinegar, water, and baking soda.
Instructions: Sprinkle baking soda on the stain first, then spray with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a damp cloth.
Mold and Mildew Cleaner:
Ingredients: One part hydrogen peroxide to two parts water.
Instructions: Combine in a spray bottle, spray on affected areas, wait an hour, then rinse clean.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner:
Ingredients: ½ cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of white vinegar, and 10 drops of tea tree essential oil.
Instructions: Pour ingredients into the bowl, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
Tips for Successful Use of Natural Cleaners
Always label your DIY cleaners, listing all the ingredients for safety and future reference.
Perform a spot test on a small area before using a new cleaner to ensure it doesn't cause damage.
Use glass bottles instead of plastic to store your cleaners, especially when using essential oils, as they can degrade plastic over time.
Transitioning to natural DIY cleaning products is a positive step towards creating a healthier and more eco-friendly home. Not only do these homemade cleaners do an excellent job of keeping your living space fresh, but they also reduce the exposure to harmful chemicals for you and your family. So, get mixing, and enjoy a naturally clean home that’s kind to both your health and the environment.
*You can find more examples in my book, out now!