Some homeowners are moving away from commercial cleaning products and opting for natural ingredients to clean their homes. Making your own cleaning solutions is an easy way to cut costs and steer away from harsh and harmful chemicals in the home. Homemade cleaning supplies are beneficial, effective, and easier to make than you think. Here are a few ways to clean your house with items you probably already have in your pantry.
Homemade Cleaning Supplies: All-Purpose Cleaner
As the name suggests, an all-purpose cleaner can be used to clean almost everything in your home. With this homemade solution, there are no harmful chemicals. You only need vinegar, water, and lemon peels. Gather lemon peels and place them in a glass jar. Cover the peels with vinegar and allow the jar to sit for at least a week. Strain the liquid and add it to a spray bottle, mixing it with up to 50% water. You can also add rosemary, lavender, or another essential oil for a pleasant scent.
Kitchen Cleaner and Deodorizer
If you need a cleaner specific to the kitchen that you can use on the counters, appliances, and refrigerator, it’s easy to make one yourself.
The main ingredient in this cleaner is baking soda, as it makes the perfect deodorizer. Baking soda is also great for shining stainless steel and removing rust spots. Make a mixture of 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1-quart warm water and apply it with a damp cloth to the area. Scrub the countertop, sink, or appliance clean, and then use a damp microfiber cloth to remove any leftover cleaner.
To deodorize your home, add baking soda straight from the box to your sink’s drain or garbage disposal. This will help to remove odors in places that are difficult to clean.
Homemade-Cleaning Supplies: Glass Cleaner
Combine water, vinegar, and rubbing alcohol for an effective glass cleaner. Add a drop of essential oil if you wish for a scented version. Use this solution on windows or mirrors throughout the house. Before spraying the vinegar solution, wipe the windows with a dry towel to remove dust. Then, use your cleaning spray to dampen the glass. Use paper towels or a squeegee to remove the window cleaner for a streak-free shine.
DIY Heavy-Duty Sink Scrub
For kitchen and bathroom stains, make a heavy-duty scrub. The only ingredients needed are lemon and a laundry booster, like Borax. Mix 1 cup of Borax with 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Apply this paste with a sponge to stained areas of the countertops or sink. Rinse well. This mixture is non-toxic but not recommended for some surfaces because it may scratch them. Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area before use.
Clothing Stain Remover
If you struggle to get stubborn stains out of clothing, try making this stain remover at home. Use two parts hydrogen peroxide and one part dish liquid. Add these ingredients to a spray bottle and shake well to mix. Spray your solution on the stain and work it in with your fingertips or a scrub brush. Then launder as usual.
Making homemade cleaning supplies is easy and cost-effective. Natural ingredients are better for your family and the environment, and the lack of artificial fragrances leaves your home with a fresh, clean scent.
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