Cleaning your home doesn’t have to mean using harsh chemicals or spending a ton of money. With a few simple, natural ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, you can whip up effective and eco-friendly cleaners in no time. Baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils can tackle everything from sticky messes to stubborn grime, all while being safe for your home, your family, and the planet. If you are ready to skip the store-bought stuff, here are 25 natural cleaning products you can throw together in minutes.
All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner
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This simple cleaner combines vinegar and citrus peels for a powerful degreaser and disinfectant. Fill a jar with orange, lemon, or lime peels and cover them with white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for two weeks, then strain the liquid into a spray bottle. This natural cleaner cuts through grease and grime while leaving a fresh, citrusy scent. Use it on countertops, sinks, and appliances. The acidity in vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum. For extra antibacterial properties, add a few drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil. Avoid using this on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble.
Natural Wood Polish
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Keep wooden furniture and surfaces shiny and protected with a homemade polish. Combine ½ cup of olive oil with ¼ cup of white vinegar and a few drops of lemon essential oil. Shake well and apply with a soft cloth, rubbing in circular motions. The olive oil conditions the wood, while vinegar cleans and removes buildup. This polish works well on tables, cabinets, and even wooden floors. It leaves a natural shine without any synthetic chemicals. Avoid excess application to prevent a greasy finish. Store in a sealed container and shake before each use.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner Bombs
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Create fizzy toilet bowl bombs that clean and deodorize effortlessly. In a bowl, mix one cup of baking soda, ¼ cup of citric acid, and 20 drops of essential oil (such as tea tree or eucalyptus). Spritz lightly with water until the mixture holds together, then press into silicone molds. Let them dry overnight, then store in an airtight container. Drop one bomb into the toilet, let it fizz for a few minutes, then scrub and flush. This cleaner naturally deodorizes and removes stains. It’s a great alternative to harsh bleach tablets.
Disinfecting Tea Tree Spray
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Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. To make a natural disinfectant, mix two cups of distilled water, one tablespoon of castile soap, and 20 drops of tea tree essential oil in a spray bottle. Shake well and use it on high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. This spray helps kill bacteria and prevent mold growth. It’s safe for most surfaces but should be patch-tested on delicate materials. The refreshing scent also helps purify the air. Store in a cool, dark place for longevity.
Baking Soda Scrub
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Baking soda is a natural abrasive that effectively scrubs surfaces without scratching them. Mix one cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water until you form a thick paste. Apply it to sinks, tubs, or stovetops, and scrub with a sponge or brush. This scrub helps break down grime, soap scum, and even stubborn grease. For an extra boost, add a few drops of lemon or peppermint essential oil. It’s safe for stainless steel, porcelain, and ceramic surfaces. Rinse thoroughly with water after scrubbing. Store the paste in an airtight container for future use.
DIY Glass and Mirror Cleaner
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For streak-free windows and mirrors, mix one cup of distilled water with one cup of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Add a teaspoon of cornstarch, which helps prevent streaks. Shake well before each use and spray onto glass surfaces. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a sparkling finish. This cleaner is free of ammonia, unlike commercial glass cleaners. It effectively removes fingerprints, dust, and water spots. Adding a few drops of essential oil, like lavender or eucalyptus, gives it a pleasant scent. Always label your bottle for easy identification.
Homemade Floor Cleaner
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For an effective and eco-friendly floor cleaner, mix ½ cup of white vinegar with one gallon of warm water. Add 10 drops of lemon essential oil for a fresh scent. Use this solution to mop tile, laminate, or vinyl floors. Vinegar cuts through dirt and disinfects, while the essential oil adds a pleasant fragrance. Avoid using vinegar on hardwood floors, as it may strip the finish. For wooden floors, substitute vinegar with black tea or a mild castile soap solution. Store leftovers in a sealed container for future cleaning.
Lemon and Salt Cutting Board Cleaner
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Sanitize and deodorize cutting boards naturally with lemon and salt. Sprinkle coarse salt over the board, then scrub with half a lemon, squeezing slightly as you go. The salt acts as an abrasive, while the lemon’s acidity helps disinfect. This method removes stains, odors, and bacteria without chemicals. Rinse with warm water and let the board air dry. This cleaner is especially useful for wooden cutting boards, which can absorb odors. Regular use keeps your cutting boards fresh and bacteria-free.
DIY Laundry Detergent
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Make a non-toxic, cost-effective laundry detergent with just three ingredients. Grate one bar of castile or natural soap and mix it with one cup of washing soda and one cup of baking soda. Store in an airtight container and use two tablespoons per load. This detergent effectively cleans clothes without artificial fragrances or chemicals. It’s safe for high-efficiency (HE) washers and works in both hot and cold water. For extra freshness, add a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil. This detergent is gentle on sensitive skin.
Reusable Cleaning Wipes
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Ditch disposable wipes and make your own reusable version. Cut up old t-shirts or towels into small squares. In a jar, mix one cup of water, ½ cup of white vinegar, one tablespoon of castile soap, and 10 drops of essential oil. Submerge the fabric squares in the solution and store them in a sealed container. Use these wipes for quick cleanups around the house. Wash and reuse them as needed. This method reduces waste and saves money.
DIY Carpet Freshener
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Carpets can trap odors and dirt, but a simple homemade freshener can help deodorize them naturally. Mix one cup of baking soda with 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (such as lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the carpet and let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or overnight for deeper deodorizing. The baking soda absorbs odors, while the essential oils leave a pleasant scent. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove the baking soda. This method is safe for pets and children. Use it once a week to maintain fresh-smelling carpets.
Grease-Cutting Dish Soap
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For a natural and effective dish soap, combine one cup of liquid castile soap with two tablespoons of lemon juice and 10 drops of tea tree essential oil. Castile soap is plant-based and gentle on skin while being tough on grease. The lemon juice helps cut through oily residues and adds a fresh scent. Shake well before each use, and add a small amount to a sponge or dishwater. This dish soap is biodegradable and safe for septic systems. It doesn’t produce excessive suds like commercial detergents but cleans just as effectively.
Mold and Mildew Spray
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Mold and mildew can be harmful, but you don’t need bleach to remove them. Mix equal parts white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Add 10 drops of tea tree essential oil for extra antifungal properties. Spray directly onto moldy areas, such as bathroom tiles or shower curtains. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a brush or sponge. Rinse with water and repeat as needed. This solution helps prevent mold regrowth without toxic chemicals. Store in a dark bottle, as hydrogen peroxide degrades in light.
Homemade Air Freshener
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Commercial air fresheners often contain synthetic fragrances, but you can make your own with just a few ingredients. In a spray bottle, mix one cup of distilled water with 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil (such as lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus). Shake well and spritz around your home for a natural and refreshing scent. This air freshener neutralizes odors without overpowering perfumes. You can also add a tablespoon of vodka or witch hazel to help disperse the essential oils more evenly. Use it as needed to freshen up any space.
Fabric Softener Alternative
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Instead of using commercial fabric softeners loaded with artificial fragrances, opt for a natural alternative. Add ½ cup of white vinegar to your washing machine’s rinse cycle. Vinegar helps soften fabrics, reduce static cling, and remove detergent residue. For a fresh scent, add a few drops of essential oil to the vinegar before use. This method is especially helpful for people with sensitive skin. It works well for all fabric types, including towels and bed linens. Vinegar also helps maintain the brightness of clothes without fading colors.
Dusting Spray
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Make a natural dusting spray that polishes surfaces while repelling dust. In a spray bottle, combine ½ cup of water, ¼ cup of white vinegar, one tablespoon of olive oil, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil. Shake well and spray onto a microfiber cloth before wiping down furniture, shelves, and baseboards. The vinegar cleans, the olive oil conditions, and the essential oil adds a fresh scent. This spray works well on wooden, glass, and metal surfaces. Avoid over-spraying to prevent excess oil buildup.
Drain Cleaner
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Clogged drains don’t require harsh chemicals to clear. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and bubble for 10-15 minutes. Then, flush with hot water to remove debris and buildup. This combination helps break down grease, soap scum, and minor clogs. For tougher clogs, repeat the process or use a plunger. This method is safe for pipes and septic systems. It’s a great maintenance trick to keep drains fresh and odor-free.
Microwave Cleaner
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Steam-clean your microwave with just water and lemon. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with one cup of water and add the juice of one lemon. Microwave on high for five minutes, allowing the steam to loosen stuck-on food. Carefully remove the bowl and wipe the interior with a cloth or sponge. The lemon naturally deodorizes, leaving your microwave smelling fresh. This method eliminates the need for scrubbing. Repeat as needed for heavily soiled microwaves.
Oven Cleaner
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A chemical-free way to clean your oven is with a baking soda paste. Mix ½ cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to form a thick paste. Spread it over the interior of your oven, avoiding heating elements. Let it sit overnight to break down grease and burnt-on residue. Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth, then spray with vinegar to remove any remaining residue. This method is safe, non-toxic, and effective for deep-cleaning ovens.
Soap Scum Remover
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To remove stubborn soap scum from showers and tubs, mix equal parts vinegar and dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray generously on affected areas and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Scrub with a sponge or brush, then rinse with warm water. The vinegar dissolves mineral buildup, while the soap cuts through grime. This method is great for glass shower doors, tiles, and sinks. For tough stains, sprinkle baking soda on top before scrubbing.
Stainless Steel Polish
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Keep stainless steel appliances shiny and fingerprint-free with a simple polish. Dab a few drops of olive oil onto a microfiber cloth and wipe in the direction of the grain. Buff with a clean cloth to remove excess oil. The olive oil restores shine and acts as a barrier against smudges. For added cleaning power, wipe with a vinegar-dampened cloth before applying the oil. This works on refrigerators, dishwashers, and sinks.
Pet-Safe Floor Cleaner
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If you have pets, a non-toxic floor cleaner is essential. Mix one gallon of warm water with ¼ cup of castile soap and 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Mop as usual, ensuring the floor dries completely before letting pets walk on it. This cleaner is safe for most floors, including tile, vinyl, and laminate. Avoid using essential oils toxic to pets, such as tea tree or citrus oils. This gentle formula keeps floors clean without harming furry friends.
Homemade Fabric Stain Remover
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For a natural stain remover, mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with ½ cup of dish soap. Apply directly to stains and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing. This mixture is effective on food stains, sweat marks, and grease spots. For tougher stains, lightly scrub with a toothbrush before laundering. It’s safe for both whites and colors but should be patch-tested on delicate fabrics. Store in a dark bottle to maintain the effectiveness of the hydrogen peroxide.
Eco-Friendly Dishwasher Detergent
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Make your own dishwasher detergent with two cups of washing soda, one cup of citric acid, and ½ cup of salt. Store the mixture in an airtight container and use one tablespoon per load. This detergent effectively cuts grease and removes food residue without harsh chemicals. It is free from phosphates and synthetic fragrances, making it safer for the environment. For an extra rinse aid, use white vinegar in the rinse cycle to prevent water spots. This simple DIY alternative keeps dishes sparkling clean while being budget-friendly.
DIY Hand Soap
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For a gentle, moisturizing hand soap, mix ½ cup of liquid castile soap with ¼ cup of aloe vera gel and 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Pour the mixture into a soap dispenser and shake well before use. This soap effectively cleans without stripping moisture from the skin. The aloe vera soothes and hydrates, making it ideal for frequent hand washing. It’s a great alternative to commercial soaps filled with artificial fragrances and chemicals. Safe for all skin types, this DIY hand soap is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.