6 Easy DIY Cleaning Recipes for a Non-Toxic Home
Maintaining a clean home doesn’t have to mean using harsh chemicals. With pantry staples like vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap, you can make safe, effective cleaners in minutes. These recipes cut costs, reduce plastic waste, and keep your family breathing easier. Let us know which one you're trying first! For more ways to lower your toxic burden at home read our ideas for How to Reduce Toxins in Your Home.
All-Purpose Cleaner
Best for countertops and appliances
Ingredients
-1 cup warm water
-1 cup white vinegar
-1 tablespoon liquid castile soap
-10 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions
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Combine all ingredients in a 16 oz spray bottle.
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Swirl gently to mix—avoid too many suds.
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Label clearly and store under the sink.
Usage Tips
-Use on laminate, stainless steel, and sealed surfaces.
-Wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
-Avoid granite or marble; vinegar can etch natural stone.
Glass & Mirror Cleaner
Best for windows and mirrors.
Ingredients
-2 cups water
-½ cup white vinegar
-¼ cup rubbing alcohol (70%)
-5 drops peppermint or tea tree essential oil
Instructions
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Pour ingredients into a spray bottle.
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Close and shake to blend.
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Spray lightly; wipe with lint-free cloth or paper.
Usage Tips
-Clean in vertical strokes to prevent drips.
-Essential oils boost cleaning power and add freshness.
Wood Furniture Polish
Best for wood tables and cabinets.
Ingredients
-½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
-¼ cup fresh lemon juice
-5 drops orange essential oil
Instructions
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Whisk ingredients in a small bowl.
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Dip a soft cloth into the polish.
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Buff wood in the direction of the grain.
Usage Tips
-Test first on a small area.
-Revives shine and nourishes wood without silicones.
Floor Cleaner
Best for tile, vinyl, and laminate floors.
Ingredients
-1 gallon warm water
-¼ cup liquid castile soap
-10 drops lavender or eucalyptus essential oil
Instructions
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Mix castile soap and essential oil in water.
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Mop floors as usual, rinsing mop frequently.
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Let air-dry for a streak-free finish.
Usage Tips
-Safe for tile, vinyl, and laminate floors.
-Avoid over-wetting wood floors to protect finish.
Bathroom Scrub
Best for tub, sink, and grout.
Ingredients
-½ cup baking soda
-2 tablespoons liquid castile soap
-10 drops tea tree essential oil
Instructions
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Stir ingredients into a thick paste.
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Spread on tubs, sinks, and grout lines.
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Let sit 10 minutes; scrub and rinse well.
Usage Tips
-Tea tree oil adds antimicrobial benefits.
-Rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue.
Kitchen Degreaser
Best for stovetops, ovens, and exhaust fans.
Ingredients
-½ cup baking soda
-1 tablespoon eco-friendly dish soap
-¼ cup white vinegar
Instructions
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Sprinkle baking soda on greasy areas.
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Drizzle vinegar and dish soap over top.
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Let fizz, then scrub with a sponge.
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Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Usage Tips
-Ideal for stovetops, oven doors, and range hoods.
-Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
Switching to DIY cleaning recipes is a simple way to boost your home’s health and sustainability. You’ll save money, cut down on plastic waste, and eliminate toxic fumes. Give these recipes a try and watch your home sparkle with a natural, fresh glow.
Extra Tips & Ideas
-Customize scents by blending essential oils like rosemary, grapefruit, or cedarwood.
-Store cleaners in dark glass bottles out of sunlight to prolong shelf life.
-Clearly label each bottle with the date and ingredients.
-Most DIY cleaners last up to six months when kept in a cool, dry place.
-Upcycle old spray bottles and eco-friendly jugs to minimize waste.
More Baking Soda Uses:
-Baking Soda is a wonderful deodorizer. Sprinkle it onto mattresses, cushions, or rugs, let sit for a ten minutes and vacuum off for fresh smelling fabrics.
-Clean fruits and veggies with baking soda as well! Add a tablespoon per two cups of water in the sink and let sit over produce for 15 minutes before straining to remove bugs and pesticides.
Elevate your cleaning routine further by pairing these recipes with reusable tools like washable mop pads, microfiber cloths, and biodegradable sponges. Your home will stay spotless, sustainable, and completely chemical-free.