When we hear the term “environmental pollution”, what usually comes to mind are the toxins we encounter when we venture outside, like exhaust fumes, smog, pesticides, and even radioactive chemicals. We know that exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to health problems. Unfortunately, some toxic chemicals are found where they’re least expected- in common, cleaning products. Ammonia can burn, bleach can irritate the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. “Fresh”, “sparkling”, and “germ-free”, are all familiar terms used by companies to describe mainstream cleaning supplies. While these labels may make consumers feel safe and clean when using these products, the truth is much dirtier and far from safe.Why use this stuff?  You can take it a step further and make your own 9 Natural DIY All Purpose Cleanser and save a few dollars.

Natural Alternatives

Luckily, nature has provided plenty of natural options for cleaning that won’t give off toxic VOCs and aren’t classified as carcinogens. In addition, many are cheaper than their chemical alternatives and can be made with ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Natural Cleaning Recipes: Main Ingredients

Some of the items in your pantry (like baking soda and vinegar) work as effective cleaners and, even better, cost next to nothing. So the next time you’re staring down a big mess but you’re out of your favorite product, don’t run to the store — try one mixing up one of these DIY standbys instead.

Vinegar also has some pretty impressive antibacterial properties. In one study, vinegar was shown to be effective against several foodborne bacteria strains, including E-coli. Interestingly, this effect was increased when the vinegar was combined with salt, which is exactly what several of the recipes below do.

Baking soda in particular has a strong alkalinity (8.1 on the pH scale) and a crystalline structure that acts as a gentle abrasive to help dissolve stains and buildups. It also has antibacterial properties, making it a great natural deodorizer – another reason you’ll see it in the ingredient list of store-bought natural toothpastes and deodorants. When combined, vinegar and baking soda create a highly effective natural stain remover and antibacterial cleaner base that won’t add to your daily toxin exposure.

9 Natural DIY Cleaning Products

So without further ado, let’s dive into those natural cleaning recipes. Don’t worry: even if you’re not in the mood for a cleaning spree, you’ll still find yourself rummaging through your cabinets for the ingredients once you see how simple they are to put together!

1. Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner

    Purpose:

• Use this cleaner for counter tops, windows or bathrooms!

    Tools:

• 16 oz glass spray bottle

    Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 3 drops tea tree essential oil
• 3 drops lemon essential oil

    Instructions:

• Combine all of the ingredients in your glass bottle and shake.
• Spray on kitchen counter tops and other surfaces as needed.
• Since the ingredients will settle and separate, give this cleaner a light shake before each use.

2. Homemade Air Freshener

    Purpose:

• Freshen up the room with this DIY cleaner in place of Febreeze!

    Tools:

•  Glass bottle with spray top

     Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 T baking soda
• 5-6 drops grapefruit essential oil

      Instructions:

• Combine ingredients in your spray bottle.
• Give it a shake, then spray to freshen up any room.

   3. Kitchen Cleaner and Deodorizer

       Purpose:

• To clean kitchen counters, appliances, and the inside of your refrigerator.

       Tools:

• Sponge
• Glass Bottle with spray top.

       Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons baking soda
• 1 quart warm water

       Instructions:

• Combine ingredients in your spray bottle.
• Just pour the above solution on a clean sponge and wipe.

 4.  Homemade Dishwasher Cleaner

      Purpose:

• Make your dishwasher work like it’s brand new again with this cleaner.

      Tools:

• 2 small glass containers (like measuring cups)

       Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup baking soda

       Instructions:

• Prepare your dishwasher by removing the dish racks and wiping away debris around the drain and crannies.
• Put the racks back and set the vinegar in your small container on the bottom rack.
• Do the same for the baking soda, but place it on the top rack.
• Run the dishwasher, then let it sit for 20 minutes after the cycle has finished for a natural steam clean. Now open the dishwasher and give it a quick rub down.

5. Homemade Disinfectant Wipes:

    Purpose:

• These disinfectant wipes are re-usable, so there’s no waste!

    Tools:

• Empty container to hold wipes
• 15-20 squares of old cloth, like dish towels or old T-shirts

    Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 8 drops tea tree oil
• 8 drops lemon essential oil

    Instructions:

• Place your cloth squares in the container.
• Combine water, vinegar, and essential oils in a bowl, then pour over the cloths.
• Once the mixture has soaked in, use the cloths as needed. These are reusable, so once you’re finished, toss them in with the laundry and repeat!

6. Homemade Drain Cleaner

    Purpose:

• Clear out the drains in both your bathroom and kitchen.

    Tools:

• Small bowl

    Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1/4 cup cream of tartar
• 2 cups boiling water

   Instructions:

• Combine the baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar in a small bowl.
• Sprinkle half of the mixture down the drain, then pour the boiling water over it.
• Let sit for roughly an hour, then rinse with cool water.
• If your drain is still clogged, try pouring a full cup of baking soda followed by a cup of white vinegar down the drain, then let it sit overnight. This recipe works for both kitchen and bathroom drains.

   7. Marble Cleaner:

       Purpose:

• Perfect for cleaning marble or granite surfaces.

       Tools:

• Sponge
• Small bowl

       Ingredients:

• 2 drops mild dishwashing liquid
• 2 cups warm water

       Instructions:

•  Mix dishwashing detergent and water the next time you want to clean natural stone countertops.
• Sponge over marble and rinse completely to remove any soap residue. Buff with a soft cloth; do not let the marble air-dry.
• Caution: Never use vinegar, lemon, or any other acidic cleaner on marble or granite surfaces; it will eat into the stone.

8. Homemade Shower and Tub Cleaner

    Purpose:

• Kill germs and fight mold with this bathroom cleaner.

    Tools:

• 16 oz glass spray bottle

    Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 3-5 drops lemon essential oil

    Instructions:

• Combine all of the ingredients in your glass bottle and shake.
• Spray throughout your tub and shower as needed. Since the ingredients will settle and separate, give this cleaner a shake before using.

These are some of my favorites recipes and you can go ahead try these. What are your favorite homemade all-natural cleaning recipe? Share your tips and tricks with me.