Cleaning can be a task, but finding the right cleaner for the job doesn’t have to be. We've rounded up our tried and true DIYs that are eco-friendly, economical, and low-waste!
Why DIY? Because even products advertised as "green" or "natural" may contain ingredients that can cause health problems. Some cleaning supplies can even be flammable or corrosive. Fortunately, you can limit your exposure to those risks by making your own cleaning products. It's a great way to banish plastic from your home too.
Some quick and natural cleaners can be made from simple household ingredients: white vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, rubbing alcohol, and citrus peels!
Here are a few all-purpose cleaners you can make at home:
🍋 1 part white vinegar, 1 part water, and your favourite essential oil; OR reuse your lemon/orange peels instead of essential oils by leaving the peels in a jar of vinegar in a dark and dry place for 10 days. Then remove the peel, and voila! 🍋For a sudsy cleaner, use a ratio of 1 cup warm water and 1 tbsp of castile soap to get the grime off.
Tip: To tackle tough stuck-on dirt and grime, mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Use the mix to clean stubborn burnt on messes in the kitchen (works great and is gentle on pots & pans) or remove stuck on grime in the bathroom (soap scum doesn't stand a chance).
Whatever cleaner you end up using, don’t combine vinegar with soap because the soap becomes unsaponified, turning it into fat!
For granite and natural stone, it isn't recommended to use vinegar. Instead, wipe down granite and natural stone countertops using a mild soap, like castile soap, and a gentle dish cloth. To periodically disinfect your granite countertops, remove soap residue, and restore shine, mix together a 50:50 solution of water and rubbing alcohol or vodka. Spray the solution onto the granite, allow it to sit for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with water and dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
Consider upcycling empty spray bottles you have around your home by filling them with your new DIY mixtures, however, make sure to clean out all the residue from the former contents and never mix cleaners.
Got tips or DIYs you live by? Share them below!
Also be sure to check out our posts to Green Your Shower Routine and Green Your Laundry Routine and follow us on Instagram for green inspiration on the regular.