Who doesn’t want a fresh and clean house? I know I do, but what I don’t want is toxic chemicals around my family.
While most commercial cleaners smell delightful, they are filled with chemicals that can be endocrine disruptors or worse.
What is the solution? Making your own homemade cleaner!
This homemade cleaner is so simple to make and uses a handful of ingredients you likely already have around your house. One of the best parts of this recipe is that it is totally customizable.
The base of this recipe is vinegar and that doesn’t always smell the best so you can add whatever essential oils you like!
This post is all about how to make a homemade cleaner.
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What is the difference between cleaner and disinfectant?
First off, it should be noted that this recipe is for an all purpose cleaner. That means that this is not a disinfectant.
Why is this distinction important?
Whenever you go to clean your house, you start with removing dirt and grime. That is where this cleaner comes into play. It is important to clear the grime first as it can inhibit proper disinfecting.
After you have cleaned the surface, you would use a disinfectant.
A disinfectant is something that kills germs and bacteria. Bleach or alcohol (both in proper quantities) are considered disinfectants and we will not be covering this today.
What materials do you need to make this all purpose cleaner?
This recipe uses very little in terms of materials but the main thing you need is a spray bottle. When making cleaners or any other DIY product, it is vital that you do not use old containers as it is very easy to mix seemingly harmless ingredients and create a lethal chemical reaction.
- With that said, I purchased this pack of amber glass bottles to use for this cleaner as well as my DIY linen spray. They were super reasonably priced at 23 dollars and they are so cute!
- Secondly, you will need a container to mix your cleaner in. I use a mason jar for ease of use but a bowl will work just fine too.
- Finally, you will need a funnel to pour the mix into your spray bottle without spilling everywhere. This is optional if you are feeling brave!
- One last thing you can add for a gorgeous finish. These free labels that you can print on Avery 22807 sticker paper so you always know what product is in which bottle. Download them for free below.
The homemade cleaner recipe
16-24 oz amber spray bottle
1/2 cup vinegar
1 1/2 Tbsp liquid soap (check out how to make your own here)
1/2 Tbsp baking soda
Distilled or filtered water
*optional: 20 drops essential oils- I have been on a rose kick lately! It smells so amazing!
How to make the all purpose cleaner
To make this all purpose cleaner, all you have to do is combine all the ingredients into a container, starting with the baking soda, then the dish soap and finally the vinegar. It is important to do this part slowly or you will end up with a giant mess. Yes, I have done this before lol.
Stir the mixture (it will foam as the baking soda and vinegar combine.) Once it is combined, it is time to transfer it to your spray bottle. It is easiest to use the funnel here.
Once it is in your container, top it up with filtered or distilled water. Add the lid then invert it a few times to mix. You are ready to go! If you want to add essential oils, now is the time to do it! If you are using infused vinegar (more on this below) I would use orange or mint essential oils for a lovely fragrance!
Just a word of caution. Although they are much less toxic than normal cleaners, some essential oils can be toxic to animals. Be sure you do some research before you choose if you have pets in your house.
It is also good practice to always do a spot test of any new cleaners on an inconspicuous place. I have not tested it on marble or granite counters so make sure you do a patch test.
An alternative method if you do not want to use essential oils for your DIY cleaner
If you want fresh smelling cleaner, you can infuse vinegar in a similar way you would make homemade extracts. All you need to do is take a fresh, clean jar and fill it with whatever you want to infuse, and vinegar. I have infused orange peels with great success.
The key to any infusions in vinegar is ensuring that the fresh produce (such as orange peels) are completely covered or they can mold. You can use a large rock to weigh down the ingredients and then add the lid loosely, placing it in a cool dark place for at least 3 weeks, checking on it periodically for the scent.
Strain out the peels and the vinegar is ready to use!
That's it! Your homemade cleaner is all done
I hope you love this recipe! Thank you so much for reading. Please comment below what scent combinations you like to use.
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