Creating your own cleaning mixtures can provide a sense of independence, especially when your go-to cleaners aren’t readily available. These homemade cleaning solutions are also free of harsh chemicals. At Urban9 Cleaning Services, we’ve put together some easy-to-make cleaners that will assist in tackling chores throughout your home, along with clever ways to utilize everyday pantry staples to make your space shine like never before
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Key Suggestions for Crafting Homemade Cleaning Solutions
- Prepare your homemade cleaning solutions’ mixtures in smaller amounts. Without preservatives, large batches may lose effectiveness over time.
- Incorporate your preferred essential oils for a pleasant and refreshing fragrance in your homemade cleaning solutions.
- Clearly label each container and list the ingredients. This is especially crucial if you’re repurposing bottles or using containers that could be confused for food storage.
1. Homemade All – Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- Strips of lemon peel
Pro Tip:
For tough stains or dried spills, lightly dust the area with baking soda before spraying the cleaner. The reaction will create a gentle fizz, helping to break down the stain so it can be easily wiped away with a microfiber cloth.
Best Uses:
- Clean countertops in kitchens and bathrooms
- Deodorize trash bins
- Remove watermarks from surfaces
- Eliminate fingerprints from walls
Caution:
Avoid using this all-purpose cleaner on marble surfaces, as the acidity may cause damage to the stone.
2. Homemade Glass and Window Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol (isopropyl)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cups warm water
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake thoroughly to combine. Make sure to shake before each use to keep the mixture evenly blended.
Best Uses:
- Clean windows
- Polish glass tabletops
- Shine mirrors
Caution:
Avoid using this DIY glass cleaner on electronic screens like televisions, computer monitors, or cell phones.
3. Homemade Kitchen Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup liquid dish soap
- 4 cups warm water
Instructions:
Combine the ingredients in a bowl or spray bottle. Apply the mixture to the surface and scrub using a damp microfiber cloth or sponge. Rinse the area with a wet cloth and then dry. If you’d prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of water to create a baking soda and dish soap paste instead of a spray.
Note:
Before using this mixture on stainless steel appliances, consult your manual to ensure baking soda is recommended. If it is, always rub the mixture in the direction of the grain for best results.
Best Uses:
- Countertops
- Sinks
- Kitchen appliances
- Inside the refrigerator
4. Homemade Deep Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1/2 fresh lemon
- 1/2 cup borax powder
Instructions:
Pour the borax powder into a bowl. Take half of the lemon and press the fleshy side into the borax. Use this lemon and borax combination to scrub the surface and tackle stains. Rinse thoroughly once the stains are removed.
Best Uses:
- Porcelain sinks
- Enamel bathtubs
Caution:
Avoid using this cleaner on marble or granite, as it may cause damage. Additionally, borax can irritate the skin and eyes, and may be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Though generally safe, handle borax with care.
5. Homemade Degreaser
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon castile soap (e.g., Dr. Bronner’s)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well to mix. Spray the solution onto surfaces, then wipe clean with a dry cloth. For tougher cleaning tasks, you might need a stronger degreaser.
Best Uses:
- Countertops
- Sinks
- Toilets
- Bathtubs
- Walls
Pro Tips:
Avoid using this cleaner on wood or marble surfaces.
To safely clean wood or marble, mix a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap with water in a spray bottle or bowl. Apply to the surface, wipe clean with a damp cloth, and dry thoroughly.
6. Homemade Disinfectant
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar
- Essential oils like cinnamon, clove, thyme, rosemary, or tea tree oil
- Water
Instructions:
These essential oils can help combat various bacteria, fungi, and viruses, while providing a natural, earthy aroma. Add the vinegar and a few drops of your chosen essential oils to a spray bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle with water, then shake well. Spray the mixture onto surfaces and allow it to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing with a damp microfiber cloth and drying.
Best Uses:
- Suitable for most kitchen and bathroom surfaces (excluding marble).
7. Homemade Mold and Mildew Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons tea tree oil
- 1/4 cup baking soda
Instructions:
Tea tree oil is known for its natural disinfectant properties. Mix the water and tea tree oil in a spray bottle and shake thoroughly. Apply the solution generously to moldy areas and let it sit for 24 hours. Then, in a bowl, combine some of the water and tea tree oil solution with the baking soda to create a paste. Apply this paste to the moldy spots and scrub with an old toothbrush until the mold is removed. Rinse the area well and dispose of the toothbrush in a sealed bag.
Best Uses:
- Bathtubs
- Showers
- Small mold patches on walls and floors
Are Homemade Cleaning Solutions Effective?
Homemade cleaners can be quite effective, though they might require a bit more effort to achieve the same results as commercial products. Commercial cleaners often contain a blend of chemicals that enhance their effectiveness. However, if you prefer to avoid the lingering odors of store-bought cleaners, opting for homemade cleaning solutions is a great alternative.
At Urban9 Cleaning Services, we choose cleaning solutions that are free from bleach and harsh chemicals, ensuring effective results without compromising your health. Our goal is to help you tackle any mess in your home while prioritizing your overall respiratory well-being.