Erick The Cleaner
If you’ve ever peeked into your kitchen cabinet and thought, “Could this double as a cleaning product?” — you’re not alone. Welcome to the world of DIY cleaners, where pantry items become powerful tools for a healthier, more eco-conscious clean. Let’s dive into seven DIY cleaner recipes using everyday ingredients you probably already have.
Why DIY Cleaners Are the Future of Home Cleaning
Healthier Homes Without Harsh Chemicals
The commercial cleaners lining store shelves often contain ingredients that are hard to pronounce and even harder on your health. These harsh chemicals can affect indoor air quality and irritate the skin and lungs. With DIY cleaners, you’re in control of what goes into your home — and more importantly — into your air and onto your skin.
Interested in safer alternatives? Check out eco-friendly cleaning solutions that are good for both your home and the environment.
Save Money and Reduce Waste
Why spend extra on fancy products when your pantry is full of powerful cleaning agents? DIY cleaners not only save you cash, they also reduce plastic waste and unnecessary packaging.
Pantry Power: Ingredients You Already Have
Some of the most effective cleaners are likely already in your kitchen:
- Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Lemon
- Salt
- Cornstarch
- Castile Soap
- Essential Oils
Now, let’s mix and get cleaning!
1. All-Purpose Vinegar Cleaner
Ingredients and Mixing Instructions
This one’s a fan favorite! All you need is:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part water
- Optional: citrus peels or 10 drops of essential oil (lavender or tea tree)
Mix in a spray bottle, shake well, and you’re ready to go.
Best Uses Around the Home
Perfect for countertops, stovetops, tiles, and even glass. Avoid using on granite or marble as vinegar can erode natural stone over time.
Looking for more versatile home hacks? Visit our tag page on cleaning hacks.
2. Baking Soda Scrub for Tough Stains
The Science Behind the Scrub
Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive and neutralizes odors. Combined with water or vinegar, it lifts grime like a pro.
Ideal Surfaces for This Cleaner
Use it on sinks, tubs, oven doors, and stained coffee mugs. Just sprinkle, scrub, rinse — done!
Keep your home fresh and spotless with help from our curated residential cleaning insights.
3. Lemon Disinfectant Spray
Natural Antibacterial Benefits of Citrus
Lemon juice has citric acid, a natural bacteria-buster. It smells amazing and adds shine.
Easy Recipe and How to Use It
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- Juice of one lemon
- Optional: Lemon essential oil
Great for cutting boards, kitchen sinks, and bathroom tiles.
Need more citrus-powered tips? Our tag on home health has you covered.
4. Castile Soap Cleaner for Floors and More
Why Castile Soap is a Game-Changer
Castile soap is a plant-based soap that’s biodegradable, non-toxic, and super effective. It cuts through grease while being gentle on surfaces.
Surfaces to Avoid with Castile Soap
Don’t use it with vinegar on the same surface — they cancel each other out chemically. Avoid using it on waxed wood floors.
Looking for green alternatives? Dive into our eco-friendly tag collection.
5. Cornstarch Glass and Mirror Polish
Shine Without Streaks
Cornstarch is a secret weapon for glass. It scrubs without scratching and leaves a shine without any film.
Quick Steps to Mix and Use
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 cups warm water
Shake well in a spray bottle and use with a microfiber cloth.
For other specialty needs, see our specialty cleaning services.
6. Salt and Vinegar Rust Remover
How Salt Supercharges Cleaning Power
Salt adds abrasion to break down rust and hard residue. Combined with vinegar, it creates a cleaning paste that’s tough on rust but easy on the environment.
Perfect for Bathrooms and Tools
This is your go-to for shower heads, garden tools, and metal surfaces showing rust spots.
Want to skip the scrubbing? Learn when it’s time to go pro with specialty cleaning help.
7. Essential Oil Deodorizing Spray
Scented Freshness from Natural Oils
This spray not only freshens the room but also acts as a light disinfectant depending on the oils used.
Safe for Use Around Kids and Pets
Go with lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon. Avoid tea tree around cats.
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 10-15 drops essential oil of choice
Shake well and spray into the air or on fabrics.
Get inspired by more clever tricks on our DIY tips section.
Tips for Storing Your Homemade Cleaners
Labeling and Expiration Dates
Use permanent markers or printed labels with ingredient lists and dates. Most cleaners last 2–4 weeks.
Keep Ingredients Fresh for Best Results
Store vinegar, essential oils, and lemon juice in cool, dry places. Keep sprays away from direct sunlight to preserve potency.
When to Opt for Professional Cleaning Services
Specialty Cleaning Jobs You Shouldn’t DIY
Some jobs are better left to the pros — post-construction messes, deep carpet cleaning, mold remediation, or disinfecting after illness.
Explore options like:
Residential Cleaning
For those deeper, hard-to-reach spaces.
Commercial Cleaning
Maintain a spotless office without lifting a finger.
Specialty Cleaning Services
For post-construction, events, or move-in/move-out situations.
Looking for services near you? Browse our cleaners tag or our office cleaning tips.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own cleaners from pantry items is not only satisfying, but it’s also a big win for your wallet, your health, and the planet. It’s amazing how much you can do with a bottle of vinegar and a little baking soda! But remember, for those bigger messes or delicate materials, professional help from TLS Cleaners can save the day.
FAQs
1. Can I mix vinegar and baking soda together in a cleaner?
Yes, but only right before use. They fizz and neutralize quickly, which is great for scrubbing but not for storage.
2. Are these cleaners safe for pets?
Most are, but avoid essential oils like tea tree around cats and dogs. Always double-check.
3. How long do DIY cleaners last?
Typically 2–4 weeks. If it smells off or separates oddly, toss it and make a fresh batch.
4. Will these cleaners kill germs like commercial ones?
They can reduce germs, especially lemon and vinegar-based ones, but for full disinfection, consult specialty cleaning services or use EPA-approved products.
5. Can I use these on hardwood floors?
Castile soap diluted with water works well, but avoid vinegar or excess moisture which can warp wood.
6. Do DIY cleaners actually work?
Absolutely! They’ve been used for generations. The key is knowing which ingredients clean what and how.
7. What if I don’t have essential oils?
No problem — lemon juice or citrus peels work well. You’ll still get a nice scent and cleaning power.