Making homemade cleaning products can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to store-bought cleaners. Here are some simple recipes for DIY cleaning products using common household ingredients:
All-Purpose Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 10-20 drops essential oil (e.g., tea tree, lavender, lemon for fragrance and antibacterial properties)
Instructions:
- Combine vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Add baking soda slowly, allowing foaming to subside.
- Add essential oil for fragrance.
- Shake well before use.
Glass Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Add cornstarch and shake well.
- Spray on glass surfaces and wipe with a clean cloth or newspaper.
Disinfectant Spray:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rubbing alcohol (at least 70% isopropyl)
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops tea tree oil
- 10 drops lavender oil
Instructions:
- Combine rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle.
- Add tea tree and lavender oils.
- Shake well and spray on surfaces. Allow it to air dry.
Furniture Polish:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix olive oil and vinegar in a bowl.
- Add lemon essential oil and stir.
- Apply a small amount to a cloth and polish furniture.
Carpet Deodorizer:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 10-15 drops essential oil (e.g., lavender, eucalyptus)
Instructions:
- Mix baking soda and essential oil in a bowl.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the carpet.
- Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes, then vacuum.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 10 drops tea tree oil
Instructions:
- Pour baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Add vinegar and tea tree oil.
- Let it fizz and sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush.
Remember to label your homemade cleaning products properly and store them in a cool, dark place. Always test a small, inconspicuous area before using any new cleaner on surfaces. Additionally, avoid mixing certain ingredients, such as vinegar and bleach, as they can produce harmful fumes.