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Homemade all-purpose cleaner is a natural, affordable, and environmentally friendly solution that safely cleans and freshens your home with simple ingredients.
Keeping your home clean and fresh doesn’t have to mean relying on chemical-laden products. With just a few natural ingredients, you can create a homemade all-purpose cleaner that’s effective, affordable, and safe for your family and the environment.
For me, cleaning means taking the time to look after your things. It’s a positive experience that allows you to appreciate the items and spaces you love in your home.
I try to stay on top of our home by cleaning every morning during the week. Simply wiping down the bathroom surfaces, vacuuming high-traffic areas, making the beds, and tidying up blankets and pillows can go along way. A little daily maintenance keeps my home feeling calm and organized, freeing up my weekends from deep cleaning!
Why Choose a Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner?
Have you ever read the ingredients list on commercial cleaning products? Many store-bought options contain synthetic chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful to our health and the environment.
Remember, everything we spray and wipe onto surfaces gets absorbed into our skin or inhaled into our lungs. Switching to a homemade cleaner is:
- Eco-Friendly: Skip the plastic packaging and harsh chemicals.
- Affordable: Costs significantly less than commercial alternatives.
- Non-Toxic: Safe for homes with children and pets.
- Customizable: Adjust the scent and ingredients to suit your needs.
Another added bonus? Reducing the number of cleaning products in your home creates more space in your cupboards!
Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner Recipes
Switching to a homemade all-purpose cleaner is a simple way to create a healthier home environment while saving money and reducing waste. Whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly solution, a non-toxic option for your family, or just a fresh, clean scent without artificial chemicals, these recipes are the perfect way to start! These two simple DIY cleaner recipes can tackle most surfaces in your home. Choose the one that best suits your needs!
Shop All Purpose Cleaner Supplies
Version 1: Everyday Multi-Surface Cleaner
Best for kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and general cleaning.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp (15ml) castile soap
- 1 cup (250ml) water
- 15-20 drops of essential oils (lemon, tea tree, or lavender work great!)
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients together in a glass spray bottle.
- Shake gently before each use.
- Spray onto surfaces and wipe with a clean cloth.
Version 2: Glass and Window Cleaner
Best for windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces. Do not use on metals, galvanized surfaces, marble, or stone as it could cause damage.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (125ml) white vinegar
- 1 cup (250ml) water
- 15-20 drops of essential oils (citrus or eucalyptus work well)
Directions:
- Combine vinegar and water in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in essential oils.
- Transfer to a glass spray bottle using a funnel.
- Shake before each use.
- Spray onto glass surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Tips for the Best Natural Cleaning Results
- Opt for Essential Oils with Antiseptic Properties: Lavender, tea tree, lemon, clove, eucalyptus, and pine naturally disinfect your home while adding a refreshing scent.
- Test on Small Areas First: Always do a patch test on delicate surfaces.
- Use a Glass Spray Bottle: Vinegar can degrade plastic over time, so a glass bottle is the best option for long-term use.
How To Use Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner Daily
Every morning, I wipe down bathroom surfaces, tidy up the living spaces, and refresh the kitchen counters. In the kitchen, I do a deep cleaning of the sink (if needed) and ensure all items are put away. Keeping things clean daily prevents buildup and keeps my home feeling fresh and inviting.
A few times per month, I deep clean by washing floors, baseboards, and all other surfaces. This routine keeps my home manageable and stress-free!
Storage and Expiration
To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your homemade cleaner, store it properly:
Expiration: A homemade all-purpose cleaner typically lasts up to 1 month, especially if made with water. If using distilled water and essential oils, it may last longer. Always check for any changes in smell or consistency before use.
Use a Glass Spray Bottle: Vinegar can break down plastic over time, so glass is the best option for storage.
Keep in a Cool, Dark Place: Store your cleaner in a cupboard away from direct sunlight to preserve its potency.
Shake Before Each Use: Natural ingredients can separate, so give the bottle a good shake before spraying.
To keep things organized, label your spray bottle using a DYMO label maker. This ensures you always know what’s inside and helps family members easily identify the cleaner. Simply print out a label with the cleaner’s name and key ingredients, then stick it onto the bottle for a professional and tidy look.
Reader Questions
Can I substitute ingredients? Yes! You can replace castile soap with liquid dish soap, and swap different essential oils based on your preference.
Does the vinegar smell linger? Not for long! The scent dissipates as it dries, especially when combined with essential oils.
Is this safe to use around pets? Yes, but some essential oils (like tea tree and citrus) can be harmful to pets. Choose pet-safe options like lavender or chamomile.
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DIY Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner
Equipment
- 1 glass bottle
Materials
Everyday Multi-Surface Cleaner
- 1 tbsp Castile soap 15ml
- 1 cup water 250ml
- 15-20 drops essential oils lemon, tea tree, or lavender
Glass and Window Cleaner
- 1/2 cup white vinegar 125ml
- 1 cup water 250ml
- 15-20 drops essential oils citrus, tea tree, or eucalyptus
Instructions
Everyday Multi-Surface Cleaner
- Add all ingredients to a glass spray bottle.
- Secure the lid and gently shake to combine.
- Spray directly onto surfaces and wipe clean with a soft, lint free cloth for a fresh, streak-free finish.
Glass and Window Cleaner
- In a mixing bowl, combine equal parts vinegar and water.
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for a fresh, natural scent.
- Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into a glass spray bottle.
- Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly blended.
- Spray directly onto glass surfaces, then wipe with newspaper for a crystal-clear, streak-free shine.
