Leaf & Light

Cleaning your home shouldn’t mean compromising the environment. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create powerful, all-natural cleaners that are safe, effective, and far kinder to the earth than store-bought options. Here’s how to put together a DIY cleaning kit with three easy-to-make recipes!

Building a DIY natural cleaning kit is easy and eco-friendly. Using simple, natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, you can make non-toxic cleaners that are safe for your home and the environment. Each cleaner serves a unique purpose, from all-purpose sprays to glass polishers, reducing both waste and chemical use.

Key Ingredients

• White vinegar: natural disinfectant
• Baking soda: deodorizer
• Essential oils: fragrance and antibacterial properties

1. All-Purpose Citrus Vinegar Cleaner

Perfect for counters, sinks, and most household surfaces, this cleaner combines the natural power of vinegar with the fresh scent of citrus.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• Peels from 1-2 lemons or oranges
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Place the citrus peels in a jar and pour vinegar over them. Let the mixture sit for 1-2 weeks.
2. Strain the vinegar into a spray bottle, add water, and shake well.
3. Use on surfaces to cut through grime and leave a fresh scent.

Note: Avoid using on granite or marble, as vinegar can damage these surfaces.

2. Baking Soda Scrub for Tough Stains

This gentle scrub is ideal for bathroom sinks, tubs, and other surfaces needing a little extra elbow grease.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 10-15 drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil (for added disinfectant properties)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the baking soda and essential oil until combined.
2. Sprinkle the scrub on surfaces, use a damp cloth or sponge to scrub, and rinse well with water.

3. Glass and Mirror Cleaner

Get streak-free windows and mirrors with this simple blend, which leaves a sparkling, residue-free finish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
2. Spray onto glass or mirrors and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.

Why Make Your Own Cleaners?

Homemade cleaners cut down on waste, eliminate the need for harmful chemicals, and offer a sustainable, budget-friendly way to keep your home spotless. Plus, with just a few essential ingredients, you’ll always know exactly what’s going onto your surfaces.

Encourage a sustainable lifestyle by switching to DIY household cleaners and enjoy a cleaner, greener home. Give these DIY recipes a try and see how easy it is to keep your home both clean and green!