Store-bought products for cleaning, personal care, and home maintenance can add up quickly. Fortunately, many of these items are easy to make at home using affordable, natural ingredients. Here are 20 DIY recipes that help you save money while reducing chemicals in your home.
This tough, natural cleaner tackles grease and burnt-on food.
Ingredients: 1/4 cup baking soda, enough water to make a paste.
Instructions: Mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Spread on greasy spots and let sit for 15–20 minutes. Scrub with a sponge and rinse with water. Add a splash of vinegar for stubborn areas.
12. Homemade Room Spray
For a fresh, non-toxic room spray, try this blend.
Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon vodka (or witch hazel), and 10–15 drops of your favorite essential oil (like lavender, peppermint, or lemon).
Instructions: Mix ingredients in a spray bottle, shake well, and spritz around the home. The vodka helps the scent linger longer.
13. DIY Scouring Powder
Perfect for scrubbing sinks, tubs, and tiles.
Ingredients: 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup salt, and a few drops of essential oil (optional).
Instructions: Mix ingredients and store in a shaker container. Sprinkle over the area you’re cleaning, scrub with a damp sponge, and rinse well.
14. Granite and Marble Cleaner
For cleaning stone surfaces, avoid vinegar, which can damage them, and use this mild cleanser instead.
Ingredients: 2 cups water, 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, and 5–6 drops dish soap.
Instructions: Mix in a spray bottle. Spray onto countertops and wipe with a microfiber cloth. This solution is safe for granite and marble and leaves a streak-free shine.
15. Homemade Floor Cleaner
Use this cleaner for tile, laminate, or hardwood floors.
Ingredients: 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1-gallon warm water, and a few drops of essential oil (optional).
Instructions: Mix the vinegar and water in a bucket. Use a damp mop to clean floors. The vinegar removes grime, and the essential oil leaves a light, fresh scent.
16. Air Freshener Gel
Create a natural air freshener gel that looks pretty and lasts longer than sprays.
Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1 packet unflavored gelatin, 1 tablespoon salt, and 10–15 drops essential oil.
Instructions: Boil half the water, dissolve the gelatin, then add salt, essential oil, and remaining water. Pour into small jars and let cool to set. Place in rooms to add a pleasant, subtle fragrance.
17. Toilet Cleaning Fizz Bombs
These fizzing bombs make toilet cleaning easy.
Ingredients: 1 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup citric acid, 1/2 teaspoon water, and 10 drops essential oil.
Instructions: Combine baking soda and citric acid in a bowl, spritz lightly with water, then add essential oils. Form small balls (or press into molds) and let dry overnight. Drop one into the toilet, let fizz, then scrub.
18. Wood Floor Polish
For an extra shine on hardwood floors.
Ingredients: 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup white vinegar, and a few drops of lemon essential oil.
Instructions: Mix ingredients in a spray bottle, shake well, spray onto wood floors, and buff with a dry mop. This adds shine and helps protect wood.
19. Microwave Cleaner
Make microwave cleaning easy with steam!
Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1/4 cup vinegar, and a few lemon slices.
Instructions: Combine in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then let sit for a few minutes to let steam soften grime. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
20. DIY Upholstery Cleaner
For spot cleaning couches, chairs, and car interiors.
Ingredients: 1/2 cup vinegar, 1 cup warm water, 1 tablespoon dish soap.
Instructions: Mix ingredients in a spray bottle, spray onto the stain, scrub gently with a brush, and blot with a clean cloth. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
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