Most commercially available household cleaners contain hazardous chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. With a few simple spices and ingredients, you can make your own homemade versions of popular cleaning products for less than half the cost of store-bought brands.
All-Purpose DIY Cleaner
Mix together 2 cups hot water; 1 tbsp liquid soap; 2 tsp borax; ½ tbsp vinegar
Use as an all-purpose cleaner to clean counters, showers, bathrooms, and more.
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Window & Glass Cleaner
Mix together 1 cup white vinegar; 2 cups warm water; ½ tbsp rubbing alcohol (optional)
Use a spray bottle to apply the solution directly onto glass or windows. Wipe clean with a lint-free cloth to avoid streaking.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Mix together ½ cup borax; 1 tsp liquid soap; 1 tbsp vinegar
Pour the mixture down the toilet bowl and let it soak for at least an hour before flushing.
Tile Grout Cleaner
Mix together 2 tbsp baking soda; 1 tbsp liquid soap
Use a toothbrush to clean the grout lines.
Carpet Stain Remover
Mix together 2 tbsp cornstarch; ½ cup hydrogen peroxide (do not mix with vinegar)
Apply directly onto any stains and let it sit for an hour before vacuuming. Repeat if necessary.
Homemade Soft Scrub
Mix together 1 cup baking soda; 2 tbsp liquid soap
Use a rag to apply the mixture on the surface you want to clean. Let it sit for at least an hour before scrubbing and rinsing off with water. A word of caution though, some surfaces might be sensitive so use your best judgment to avoid further damaging the surface you are trying to clean.
What can I Clean with Vinegar?
One of the most inexpensive and effective ingredients in homemade cleaners is vinegar. It has antibacterial properties that help sanitize surfaces, killing germs without harmful chemicals. You can use vinegar to clean mirrors, windows, kitchen counters, bathroom sinks and tubs, tile floors—the list goes on!
What can I Clean with Baking Soda?
Baking soda is another ingredient that can be used for a number of cleaning purposes. It’s mildly abrasive making it perfect for scrubbing stains, removing grime, and polishing surfaces. You can use baking soda to make your own natural toilet bowl cleaner, brush cleaner for pets, carpet freshener—the list goes on!
Cleaning Tips
Here are a few more household cleaning tips you can incorporate into your daily cleaning.
Use microfiber rags to clean glass, windows, and mirrors without streaking. The thin fibers attract dust particles, trapping them in place instead of pushing them around like other cloth materials.
Avoid using the dishwasher if the dishwashing detergent contains chlorine bleach. Chlorine can emit toxic fumes while you are using your dishwasher, which is why it’s recommended to air dry them instead. You should also install water filters in your household plumbing systems to filter out the bleach and other harsh chemicals used for cleaning.
Don’t use flimsy scrub brushes that can break easily. Invest in sturdy brushes with sturdy handles that won’t break while you are cleaning.
Prevent mold and mildew from growing in your kitchen by routinely wiping down the counters, stovetop, floors, and cabinets. Keep a spray bottle filled with vinegar solution to use whenever necessary.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to use household cleaners made with natural ingredients that are safe for your family and the environment. You can make these homemade style cleaners at home without spending too much time or money doing so.