Switching to homemade cleaning supplies is a simple, cost-effective way to reduce your household’s exposure to harsh chemicals while embracing more sustainable practices. One of the easiest and most versatile products to make at home is an All-Purpose Cleaner. This cleaner works wonders on various surfaces, leaving your home sparkling clean without harmful residues. In this blog, we’ll walk through why you should make your own all-purpose cleaner and how to do it with simple, natural ingredients.
Why Make Your Own All-Purpose Cleaner?
Store-bought cleaning products often contain synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin, harm the environment, and even pose health risks with prolonged use. By creating your own cleaner, you take control of what goes into it, ensuring it’s safe for your family, pets, and the planet. Homemade cleaners are also budget-friendly, as they utilize ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This DIY all-purpose cleaner requires just a handful of natural, effective ingredients:
- White Vinegar (1 cup): A natural disinfectant that cuts through grease, grime, and tough stains.
- Water (1 cup): Dilutes the vinegar for safe use on most surfaces.
- Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Adds antibacterial properties and a fresh, clean scent.
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps scrub away stubborn stains.
- Essential Oils (optional, 10–15 drops): Provides additional cleaning power and a pleasant aroma. Tea tree, lavender, or citrus oils are great choices for cleaning.
You’ll also need a spray bottle for storage. You can re-use old cleaning bottles as desired.
Special Note: Glass bottles avoid chemical leaching if you plan to use essential oils.
How to Make Your DIY All-Purpose Cleaner
- Combine Ingredients
Start by adding the white vinegar and water to your spray bottle in equal parts (1:1 ratio). Use a funnel if needed to avoid spills. - Add Lemon Juice
Pour in the lemon juice. Its natural antibacterial properties complement the vinegar, and its citrusy scent helps neutralize vinegar’s strong smell. - Mix in Baking Soda
Carefully add the baking soda to the mixture. Be cautious, as the acidic vinegar will react with the baking soda, causing fizzing. - Add Essential Oils (Optional)
For extra fragrance and cleaning power, add 10–20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Shake gently to combine. - Shake and Label
Secure the spray bottle cap, shake well, and label your cleaner for easy identification.
How to Use Your All-Purpose Cleaner
Spray the cleaner onto surfaces such as countertops, sinks, and appliances. Wipe clean with a damp cloth or sponge. For tough stains, let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid Certain Surfaces: This vinegar-based cleaner isn’t suitable for natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as vinegar can erode their finish.
- Store Properly: Keep the cleaner in a cool, dry place and use it within a month for optimal effectiveness.
- Customize Your Scent: Experiment with different essential oils to create your preferred fragrance blend.
Conclusion
Learning how to make homemade all-purpose cleaner is a simple step toward a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing your home is clean without compromising your family’s well-being or the environment. Give this DIY recipe a try and embrace the power of natural cleaning!
