Making your own homemade cleaners can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to keep your home sparkling clean. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make powerful cleaners that rival store-bought brands. From all-purpose cleaners to specialty solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and more, homemade cleaners get the job done using items you likely already have on hand.
Why Make Your Own Cleaners
There are several excellent reasons to make your own homemade cleaners rather than relying solely on store-bought options:
- Save money – Making your own cleaners is much cheaper than buying pre-made cleaners. You can make effective cleaners with just a few inexpensive ingredients.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals and toxins. Homemade cleaners allow you to control exactly what ingredients you use.
- Customize for your needs – You can tweak homemade cleaner recipes to tailor them for different cleaning tasks. Target tough messes in the kitchen or gently clean wood surfaces.
- Help the environment – Homemade cleaners often use natural ingredients that are biodegradable and eco-friendly. Less plastic waste is produced as well.
- More pleasant smells – Commercial cleaners can sometimes have overpowering scents. With homemade cleaners, you choose natural essential oils for a light, fresh aroma.
Equipment for DIY Cleaners
Making your own cleaners doesn’t require much specialty equipment. Here are some useful items to have on hand:
- Reusable spray bottles for mixing and storing cleaners
- Funnels for easy pouring into spray bottles
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls and utensils
- Clean rags, sponges, and scrub brushes
- Labels for organizing homemade cleaners
You probably already have most of these items available in your kitchen. Investing in a few reusable spray bottles means your homemade cleaners will be ready to tackle any mess!
Basic Recipes for Homemade Cleaners
Many homemade cleaner recipes only call for a few simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Here are some base recipes to get you started:
All-Purpose Homemade Cleaner
This versatile cleaner can be used throughout your home on most hard surfaces.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄2 cup white vinegar
- 1⁄4 cup baking soda
- 1⁄2 gallon warm water
Instructions:
- Fill spray bottle with 1⁄2 gallon warm water.
- Add vinegar and baking soda and shake well to dissolve.
- Spray on surfaces and wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Homemade Window Cleaner
Get streak-free shine on windows and mirrors with this DIY cleaner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1⁄4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, mix all ingredients together.
- Shake well until cornstarch is dissolved.
- Spray a light coat on windows or mirrors and wipe with a lint-free cloth.
Disinfecting Homemade Cleaner
Sanitize surfaces and kill germs with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄2 cup water
- 1⁄4 cup hydrogen peroxide
- 20-30 drops essential oil (optional for scent)
Instructions:
- Mix water, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oil in a spray bottle.
- Shake to combine. Lightly spray on surfaces needing disinfection.
- Let sit for several minutes before wiping clean.
Specialized Homemade Cleaners
In addition to all-purpose homemade cleaners, you can also make tailored solutions for specific cleaning needs around your home:
Homemade Bathroom Cleaner
Bathrooms require disinfecting cleaners. Try this DIY scrub that cleans and deodorizes.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄2 cup baking soda
- 20 drops tea tree essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 1⁄4 cup white vinegar
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the baking soda and essential oils.
- Add the vinegar slowly to form a paste.
- Spread paste on bathroom surfaces and let sit 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Homemade Oven Cleaner
Remove baked-on grease with this powerful overnight oven cleaner.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1⁄4 cup salt
- Water
Instructions:
- Mix baking soda and salt together in a bowl. Add just enough water to make a thick, spreadable paste.
- Spread the paste thoroughly over interior oven surfaces. Avoid heating elements.
- Let paste sit overnight.
- In the morning, scrub paste away and wipe clean.
Homemade Wood Floor Cleaner
Clean and protect wood floors with this gentle DIY solution.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon warm water
- 1⁄4 cup white vinegar
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil or almond oil
- 5-10 drops essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bucket, mix together the water, vinegar, oil, and any optional essential oil.
- Dip a mop into the solution and mop floors as usual.
- Allow to dry completely. Buff with a soft cloth to shine.
Homemade Stainless Steel Cleaner
Remove fingerprints, smudges, and water spots from appliances.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup white vinegar
- 1⁄4 cup water
- Dish soap
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, mix vinegar, water, and several drops of dish soap.
- Shake well and spray directly onto stainless steel surfaces.
- Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth.
Tips for Homemade Cleaners
Here are some useful tips to get the most out of your homemade cleaners:
- Label bottles clearly so you remember what’s inside. Include dilution instructions if needed.
- Shake bottles before each use to recombine any separated ingredients.
- Test cleaners in inconspicuous spots first to check for any damage or discoloration.
- Store cleaners in a cool, dark place to preserve potency. Citrus-based cleaners can degrade in heat and sunlight.
- For super-strength cleaning, let homemade pastes and scrubs sit and work for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Microfiber cloths work best for polishing and removing cleaner residue without streaks.
Common Questions
What ingredients make the best homemade cleaners?
Some of the best homemade cleaner ingredients include baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, castile soap, washing soda, and essential oils. Always dilute acidic ingredients like lemon juice and vinegar to prevent damage to surfaces.
How long do homemade cleaners last?
The shelf life of homemade cleaners varies based on the ingredients used. Citrus-based cleaners last 1-2 weeks, while cleaners like vinegar and baking soda have an almost indefinite shelf life. Store cleaners in air-tight bottles in a cool, dark place.
Can I use homemade cleaners on all surfaces?
Test homemade cleaners in small hidden areas first. Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar and lemon on stone surfaces. Don’t use oil-based cleaners on wood floors. Always check for any damage or discoloration.
What is the safest homemade cleaner?
Vinegar and water is one of the safest homemade cleaners. For an even gentler option, try a simple water and castile soap cleaner. Always properly dilute and spot test first. Start with smaller amounts of essential oils or acidic ingredients if concerned about safety.
Conclusion
Homemade cleaners are a budget-friendly way to effectively clean your entire home using ingredients you likely already have available. Tailor solutions to tackle any cleaning challenge safely and naturally. With just a little practice, you’ll be able to whip up the perfect homemade cleaner for every situation. Your home will be sparkling clean, without the harsh chemicals or high cost of most store-bought brands.