DIY Natural Cleaning Recipes
Create effective cleaning solutions using simple, natural ingredients. All recipes use three ingredients or fewer and can be stored in reusable spray bottles.
All-Purpose Cleaners
Vinegar-Citrus All-Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients (3 items):
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- Peels from 2 citrus fruits (lemon, orange, or grapefruit)
Instructions:
- Combine vinegar and citrus peels in a glass jar
- Let sit for 2 weeks in a cool, dark place
- Strain the liquid and mix with water
- Pour into a reusable spray bottle
- Use on countertops, sinks, and most surfaces
Storage: Store in a labeled glass spray bottle. Use within 3 months.
Simple Vinegar Spray
Ingredients (2 items):
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part water
Instructions:
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water
- Pour into a reusable spray bottle
- Shake before each use
- Perfect for daily cleaning tasks
Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil if desired for a fresh scent.
Scrubbing Powders & Pastes
Baking Soda & Essential Oils Scrub
Ingredients (3 items):
- 1 cup baking soda
- 10-15 drops essential oil (tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus)
- 2-3 tablespoons water (for paste consistency)
Instructions:
- Mix baking soda with essential oils
- Add water gradually until paste forms
- Store in a glass jar with tight lid
- Apply with a natural brush or cloth
- Use on sinks, tubs, and tough stains
Usage: Apply paste, let sit for 5 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Dry Baking Soda Scrub
Ingredients (1 item):
- Baking soda
Instructions:
- Sprinkle baking soda directly on surface
- Scrub with a damp natural brush
- Rinse thoroughly with water
- Works great for ovens and stovetops
Storage: Keep baking soda in its original box or transfer to a glass jar.
Laundry Solutions
Natural Laundry Powder
Ingredients (3 items):
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 bar natural soap, grated
Instructions:
- Grate the soap bar into fine pieces
- Mix with washing soda and baking soda
- Store in a glass jar with tight lid
- Use 2-3 tablespoons per load
- Add white vinegar to rinse cycle for softness
Storage: Keep in a dry, sealed container. Use within 6 months.
Label Templates & Storage Tips
Reusable Spray Bottles
Invest in quality glass or durable plastic spray bottles. Label each bottle clearly with the recipe name and date made.
Glass Jar Storage
Use glass jars with tight-fitting lids for powders and pastes. Create simple labels using reusable tags or chalk markers.
Printable Labels
Design simple labels with recipe name, ingredients, and date. Print on recycled paper and attach with reusable clips.
Safety & Usage Tips
Important Guidelines
- Always test cleaners on a small, hidden area first
- Never mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia
- Store all solutions in clearly labeled containers
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Use within recommended timeframes for best results
- Ventilate areas well when using strong-smelling solutions