Last Updated on June 17, 2024 by Veronica Sparks
Keeping your home clean but also free from harmful chemicals is a challenge with commercial cleaning products. Many store-bought cleaners contain toxins and chemicals that can trigger allergies, skin irritations, or other health risks. One great way to avoid these toxins is by using a homemade all-purpose cleaner.
Today, we’re going to explore the natural living benefits of homemade cleaning products and review some simple recipes to make the best homemade all-purpose cleaner for your home.
Best of all? You can make these cleaners using safe and natural ingredients found right in your pantry!
Benefits of Natural Homemade Cleaning Products
Using natural remedies and DIY cleaning supplies offers several advantages over store-bought alternatives. Let’s take a look at some of these benefits.
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Control Over Your Ingredients
When you make your own cleaning products, you have full control over the ingredients used. This allows you to avoid harsh chemicals and toxins commonly found in commercial cleaning products. You can customize your cleaner to suit your needs, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for you and your family.
Better Air Quality in Your Home
Commercial cleaning products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to indoor air pollution. By opting for homemade cleaners, you can minimize your exposure to these harmful substances, leading to improved air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
Safer for Children and Furry Friends
Children and pets are more vulnerable to the effects of harsh chemicals. Homemade cleaners made with natural ingredients are gentler and safer, providing peace of mind for parents and pet owners.
Eco-Friendly
By using homemade cleaning products like surface cleaners and even DIY laundry detergent, you reduce your ecological footprint. Commercial cleaning products can contain chemicals that harm the environment when they’re washed down the drain. However, homemade cleaners made with natural ingredients are biodegradable and have a minimal impact on ecosystems.
Cost Savings
Making your own all-purpose cleaners is incredibly cost-effective. The formulas often use common household items that are inexpensive and readily available. This saves you a lot of money in the long run compared to buying costly commercial cleaning products.
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What Ingredients Can You Use as a Base?
Now that we’ve explored the benefits, let’s discuss some common ingredients you can use as a base for your homemade all-purpose cleaner. Each of these ingredients has its own unique properties and can be used to clean various surfaces effectively.
Note: These ingredients are NOT meant to be mixed, but each ingredient is a separate option as the base of your cleaner.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is a versatile ingredient for making all-purpose cleaners. It acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria and viruses on surfaces. It also helps to dissolve dirt and grime.
- Where to use it: Rubbing Alcohol is ideal for cleaning glass, stainless steel, and other hard surfaces.
- Where NOT to use it: Avoid using rubbing alcohol on porous surfaces like granite and quartz.
Distilled White Vinegar
The uses for vinegar in your house are endless, and using it as a cleaning agent is one of the most common. Distilled white vinegar is a natural acidic cleaner that effectively cuts through grease, disinfects, and removes odors.
- Where to use it: Vinegar is great for cleaning countertops, windows, mirrors, and other surfaces.
- Where NOT to use it: Avoid using vinegar on stone surfaces like marble or granite, as the acid can cause damage.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another fantastic natural cleaner. The citric acid in lemons helps remove stains, deodorizes, and leaves behind a clean, fresh scent.
Where to use it: Lemon juice works well on cutting boards, countertops, stainless steel, and surfaces where you’re trying to remove hard water stains.
Where NOT to use it: Avoid using lemon juice on natural stone surfaces and brass items.
Recipe: How to Make Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner
Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner (3 Ways)
Equipment
- 1 cleaning spray bottle
- 1 microfiber cloth
Ingredients
- rubbing alcohol
- distilled water
- natural dish soap
- distilled white vinegar
- lemon juice
- baking soda
- essential oils
Instructions
Rubbing Alcohol-Based All-Purpose Cleaner
- Mix 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 3/4 cup distilled water, and 1 tsp natural dish soap in a cleaning spray bottle.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray the solution on surfaces and wipe with a clean microfiber cloth or sponge.
Vinegar-Based All-Purpose Cleaner
- Mix 1 cup distilled white vinegar and 1 cup distilled water in a cleaning spray bottle.
- Shake well before use.
- Spray onto surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or sponge.
Lemon Juice-Based All-Purpose Cleaner
- Mix 2 tablespoons strained lemon juice, 2 cups distilled water, 1 tablespoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon natural dish soap in a cleaning spray bottle.
- Spray onto surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or sponge.
Tools and Supplies We Recommend
At Homesteading Suburbia, we strive to use natural, environmentally friendly, and effective products. We only recommend items that we know are safe and highly rated by consumers.
For your homemade all-purpose cleaner, we recommend the following items found on Amazon!
Sally’s Organics Amber Glass Spray Bottles
Reusable amber glass spray bottles keep UV light out and are BPA and lead-free. Three convenient settings on the sprayers make these bottles perfect for cleaning any surface. Handy labels are included for keeping your cleaning supplies organized.
Molly’s Suds Natural Liquid Dish Soap
The natural, plant-based formula of this fragrance-free dish soap is gentle on the skin but effective at cutting grease, grime, and even hard water deposits. It’s safe for septic tanks and it’s also eco-safe.
Essential Oils by PURE AROMA
These essential oils are 100% pure and natural with no additives, fillers, or carrier oils. Used by professional spas and salons, the set includes six oils: Eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, tea tree, lemongrass, and sweet orange.
MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
Soft, super-absorbent microfiber cleaning cloths are lint-free and non-abrasive and can be used for a range of cleaning tasks — from streak-free windows and mirrors to kitchen counters and appliances. Best of all, they’re washable and reusable.
How to Add Fragrance to Your Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner
Rubbing alcohol and vinegar in particular don’t smell that great. If you want to add a pleasant fragrance to your homemade all-purpose cleaner, consider using essential oils, citrus peels, or herbs.
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, or citrus provide a refreshing scent. Alternatively, you can infuse your cleaner with citrus peels or herbs like rosemary or mint for a natural fragrance boost.
Simply add a few drops of essential oil or a handful of citrus peels/herbs to your cleaner and let it sit for a few days before using.
Related Article: How to Make Homemade Soap: A Comprehensive Guide
Note: If you’re using perishable items like citrus or herbs, any remaining cleaner will likely need to be discarded after about a month.
Safety Considerations and Warnings
While homemade cleaners are generally safer than commercial alternatives, it’s important to keep a few safety considerations in mind:
- Always label your homemade cleaners with the contents and the date it was made.
- Store cleaning products out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid mixing vinegar or lemon juice-based cleaners with bleach or other commercial cleaning products, as it can produce harmful fumes.
- Test your homemade cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on delicate surfaces.
- Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin or are working with strong cleaning agents.
How to Store Your Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner
Store your homemade all-purpose cleaner in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Most homemade cleaners have a shelf life of several months, but it’s always a good idea to check for any signs of spoilage or odor before using.
Ready to Get Your Suburban Homestead Clean the Natural Way?
Making your own homemade all-purpose cleaner is a fantastic way to create a safer, healthier, and eco-friendly environment on your suburban homestead. With natural ingredients, you can effectively clean a variety of surfaces while avoiding harsh chemicals.
Give these recipes a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of keeping your home clean and fresh, the natural way!
FAQs: Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner
Do homemade all-purpose cleaners disinfect?
Yes, homemade cleaners can effectively disinfect surfaces, especially those containing rubbing alcohol. However, for heavily soiled areas or when dealing with specific pathogens, it’s advisable to consult professional guidelines or use approved disinfectants.
Are homemade cleaners safe for septic systems?
Yes, homemade cleaners made with natural ingredients are generally safe for septic systems. They are biodegradable and won’t disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your septic tank.
Can I use homemade cleaners if I have allergies or sensitivities?
Homemade cleaners made with natural ingredients are usually gentler and less likely to trigger allergies or sensitivities. However, it’s always a good idea to test the cleaner on a small area or wear gloves if you have known allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.
Can I use homemade cleaners if I have a specific medical condition?
If you have a specific medical condition or are undergoing medical treatments, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before using homemade cleaners or any cleaning products. They can provide guidance based on your individual needs.
Are homemade cleaners effective against mold and mildew?
Homemade cleaners can help remove surface mold and mildew, but for severe or persistent mold issues, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance. They can assess the extent of the problem and provide appropriate solutions.