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You know how much I love finding simple solutions to everyday problems, and these homemade cleaning products recipes are just that — simple solutions! Because nothing feels better than making my home sparkle without reaching for a bottle full of harsh chemicals and artificial scents.
For years, I’ve relied on a handful of powerhouse ingredients, like vinegar, baking soda, Castile soap, and a good essential oil, to tackle everything from grimy countertops to stubborn laundry stains. It’s not just about saving money, though that’s a wonderful bonus! It’s about knowing exactly what’s in the cleaners you’re using around your family and pets.
There’s something so satisfying about whipping up a batch of your own cleaner and seeing it work just as well, if not better, than the store-bought stuff. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my absolute favorite homemade cleaning products recipes with you today.
These are the tried-and-true formulas I turn to again and again because they are simple, incredibly effective, and use ingredients you likely already have. They’re easy, budget-friendly, and will make you feel like a home-keeping genius. Let’s get mixing and see how powerful pantry staples can be
1. All-Purpose Vinegar and Baking Soda Cleaner
When it comes to simple and effective homemade cleaning products recipes, you just can’t beat the classic combination of vinegar and baking soda. This duo is a powerhouse because it works on two levels: the white vinegar, which is acidic, cuts through grease and dissolves mineral deposits, while the baking soda acts as a gentle but effective abrasive. When you combine them, you get a fizzy chemical reaction that helps lift dirt and grime right off surfaces. It’s my go-to for so many cleaning tasks around the house!
This versatile cleaner is perfect for tackling everyday messes without harsh chemicals. I use it for everything from scrubbing my kitchen countertops and stainless steel sink to deodorizing the inside of the refrigerator. It’s also fantastic for removing that stubborn soap scum from shower walls and even brightening tile grout. The fizzing action does a lot of the hard work for you.
How to Make and Use It
Creating this cleaner couldn’t be easier.
- For a scrubbing paste: Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar in a small bowl. Apply the fizzing mixture directly to the surface you want to clean.
- For tough stains: Let the mixture sit for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or brush and rinsing with water.
- Pro-Tip: If the vinegar smell isn’t your favorite, add 10-15 drops of a citrus essential oil, like lemon or orange, to improve the scent.
Important Note: Always test this cleaner on a small, hidden spot first. Because of its acidic nature, you should avoid using it on natural stone surfaces like marble, granite, or limestone, as it can cause etching.
2. Lemon Juice and Olive Oil Wood Polish
To bring the natural beauty and warmth back to your wood furniture, you don’t need to reach for a store-bought polish filled with silicones and solvents. One of my favorite homemade cleaning products recipes is this simple, two-ingredient wood polish. The acidic lemon juice works wonders to cut through grime and fingerprints, while the nourishing olive oil moisturizes and conditions the wood, leaving behind a lovely, subtle shine without any waxy buildup.
This natural polish is perfect for reviving a dull hardwood dining table, conditioning a well-loved wooden cutting board, or bringing the shine back to antique furniture and picture frames. It conditions the wood rather than just coating it, which I find gives a much richer and longer-lasting finish. I love how it makes my wooden pieces look cared for and vibrant again.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this polish takes just a minute.
- To create the polish: In a small bowl or jar, combine one part fresh lemon juice with two parts olive oil.
- To apply: Dip a soft, clean cloth into the mixture and apply it to the wood, rubbing in the direction of the grain.
- Pro-Tip: Let the polish sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the oil to penetrate, then use another clean, dry cloth to buff away any excess for a beautiful sheen.
Important Note: This polish is best made fresh for each use, as the lemon juice can spoil over time. Always start by dusting or wiping down your wooden surface to remove any loose dirt before applying the polish for the best results.
Olive oil is such a staple in my kitchen, and its utility goes far beyond cooking. Beyond just polishing wood, you might be interested to discover many surprising uses for olive oil in your home.
3. Baking Soda and Castile Soap Bathroom Scrub
For a powerful, yet gentle, bathroom scrub, my go-to recipe combines baking soda with plant-based Castile soap. This dynamic duo creates an effective abrasive paste that tackles tough bathroom grime without the harsh chemicals found in many store-bought cleaners.
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The baking soda provides the scrubbing power to lift soap scum and stains, while the castile soap cuts through dirt and leaves surfaces sparkling clean. It’s one of my favorite homemade cleaning products recipes because it’s so simple and safe for frequent use.
This creamy scrub is a wonder on porcelain bathtubs and shower surrounds, effortlessly removing that stubborn ring of grime. I also use it to brighten up my bathroom tile grout, polish stainless steel fixtures until they shine, and even tackle mildew spots on tile surfaces. It’s a true multi-tasker that keeps my bathroom looking its best.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this scrub is incredibly straightforward.
- To create the paste: In a small bowl, mix about 3 parts baking soda with 1 part liquid castile soap.
- Get the right consistency: Gradually add a small amount of water until you reach a thick, spreadable paste.
- Apply and wait: Generously apply the scrub to the surface, letting it sit for about 10 minutes to work its magic. Then, scrub with a non-abrasive brush or sponge and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Pro-Tip: Add a few drops of tea tree essential oil for its natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which is perfect for bathroom cleaning.
Important Note: While this cleaner is gentle, always rinse surfaces completely after scrubbing. Leaving the paste to dry can result in a white, dusty film that requires extra wiping to remove.
Castile soap is an amazing ingredient with so many applications around the house. You can find out more about the many uses for Castile soap to see just how versatile it is.
4. White Vinegar and Water Window Cleaner
If you’re tired of spending money on commercial window cleaners that leave frustrating streaks behind, you’ll love this simple solution. Among all the homemade cleaning products recipes I use, this is the one that consistently delivers a crystal-clear, streak-free shine. The magic lies in the natural acidity of white vinegar, which effortlessly cuts through grime, smudges, and even stubborn hard water spots on glass surfaces.
This cleaner is my absolute favorite for all glass surfaces, including windows, mirrors, and glass shower doors. It works wonders on both interior and exterior glass, leaving them sparkling without any of the harsh ammonia fumes found in many store-bought options. A quick spritz and wipe-down is all it takes to make your glass surfaces look professionally cleaned.
How to Make and Use It
Getting a streak-free shine is incredibly simple with this recipe.
- To make the solution: Combine equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle and shake gently to mix.
- To clean: Spray the mixture directly onto the glass surface. Wipe clean from top to bottom using a microfiber cloth, a squeegee, or even a crumpled piece of newspaper to prevent lint and streaks.
- Pro-Tip: Clean your windows on an overcast day. Direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, which is a major cause of streaks.
Important Note: While fantastic on glass, remember that vinegar is acidic. Avoid spraying it on window frames or sills if they are made of natural stone or have a sensitive finish to prevent any potential damage.
5. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Grout Cleaner
If you’ve ever stared at dingy grout lines wondering how to get them clean again, this is one of the homemade cleaning products recipes you need to try. This powerful paste combines the gentle scrubbing power of baking soda with the natural whitening and disinfecting properties of hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide works as an oxidizer, breaking down stains, mold, and mildew, while the baking soda lifts the grime away.
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This duo is my secret weapon for restoring white grout in my bathroom and getting rid of those pesky mildew spots on the kitchen backsplash. It’s truly amazing to watch it foam up and lift years of dirt right out of the grout lines without harsh fumes or damaging the surrounding tiles. It makes old tile look brand new again!
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this cleaner is incredibly simple.
- Create the paste: In a small bowl, mix about 3 parts baking soda with 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide until it forms a thick paste.
- Apply and wait: Spread the paste directly onto the grout lines. Let it sit and foam for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse: Use an old toothbrush or a small scrub brush to work the paste into the grout. Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse the area thoroughly with warm water.
- Pro-Tip: For extra-stubborn stains, you can let the paste sit for up to an hour before scrubbing. The longer it sits, the more time the hydrogen peroxide has to work its magic.
Important Note: Hydrogen peroxide can have a mild bleaching effect. Always test this cleaner on a small, hidden area of your grout first to ensure it doesn’t cause any unwanted discoloration, especially if you have colored grout.
6. Dish Soap and Baking Soda Laundry Stain Remover
Some of the best homemade cleaning products recipes are the ones that save your favorite clothes from stubborn stains, and this one is a true lifesaver. This simple paste combines the grease-cutting power of dish soap with the gentle abrasive and odor-neutralizing properties of baking soda. It’s my secret weapon for pretreating tough stains before they even hit the washing machine, breaking down everything from oil to grass without damaging the fabric.
This stain remover is a must-have for any laundry room. I use it constantly to tackle chocolate and grass stains on my grandkids’ clothes, treat unexpected grease splatters on my aprons, and even lift red wine spills from tablecloths. Because it works so well on organic stains, it’s also perfect for keeping bedding fresh and clean. It’s a powerful, frugal alternative to expensive store-bought treatments.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this stain fighter takes just a minute.
- Create the paste: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of blue Dawn dish soap with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. You can add a few drops of water if needed to get the right consistency.
- Apply and treat: Gently rub the paste directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before laundering the item as you normally would.
- Pro-Tip: For grease stains, use hot water when you wash. For protein-based stains like blood, always use cold water to prevent the stain from setting.
Important Note: While this is gentle on most fabrics, it’s always smart to test it on a small, hidden area first, especially with delicate materials like silk or wool. Always check the care label on your garment before treating.
7. Essential Oil and Vinegar All-Purpose Disinfectant
If you’re looking for homemade cleaning products recipes that not only clean but also disinfect, this essential oil and vinegar spray is a fantastic choice. It combines the powerful grease-cutting and mineral-dissolving properties of white vinegar with the natural antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits of essential oils. This spray leaves surfaces sanitized and fills your home with a wonderful, natural aroma instead of harsh chemical fumes.
I love using this cleaner on high-touch surfaces that need a little extra disinfecting power. It’s perfect for wiping down kitchen counters after preparing meals, cleaning doorknobs and light switches, and sanitizing bathroom fixtures. It’s also gentle enough to use for cleaning and disinfecting children’s toys, which gives me great peace of mind. The added aromatherapy benefit is a wonderful bonus that makes cleaning feel a bit more pleasant.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this disinfecting spray is incredibly simple.
- To make the spray: Combine 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. Add 20-30 drops of an antibacterial essential oil like tea tree, eucalyptus, or lemon.
- To use: Shake the bottle well before each use to mix the oils. Spray the solution onto the surface and let it sit for a minute or two to allow the disinfecting properties to work before wiping it clean.
- Pro-Tip: Store the mixture in a dark glass spray bottle, as sunlight can degrade the essential oils and reduce their effectiveness over time.
Important Note: Just like with pure vinegar cleaners, you should avoid using this spray on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite. The acidity can damage the stone’s finish. Always do a quick spot test in an inconspicuous area first.
Essential oils are so versatile and can really elevate your cleaning routine. You can discover more brilliant ways to use them in my post about essential oil cleaning hacks.
8. Cornstarch and Vinegar Window and Mirror Streak Remover
If you’ve struggled with streaky windows and mirrors after cleaning, this is one of those homemade cleaning products recipes you absolutely need to try. While a simple vinegar and water solution works well, adding a bit of cornstarch takes it to the next level. The cornstarch acts as a very fine, gentle abrasive that helps scrub away grime and residue without scratching the glass, and it prevents the solution from drying too quickly, which is what causes those dreaded streaks.
This enhanced formula is my secret weapon for achieving a crystal-clear, streak-free shine on any glass surface. I use it on everything from my bathroom mirrors that get splattered with toothpaste to my large glass shower doors. It’s also incredibly effective for cleaning residential windows, leaving them so clear you’ll wonder if the glass is even there. The results are truly professional-grade without any harsh ammonia smell.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this amazing glass cleaner is simple.
- To create the solution: Combine 1 cup of warm water, 1 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in a spray bottle.
- For best results: Shake the bottle vigorously to dissolve the cornstarch completely before each use. Sometimes I’ll dissolve the cornstarch in the water first to avoid clumps.
- Pro-Tip: Spray the solution directly onto the glass and wipe in a circular motion with a lint-free microfiber cloth or a crumpled-up newspaper for a flawless finish.
Important Note: If you notice any undissolved cornstarch particles, you can strain the mixture through a coffee filter before pouring it into your spray bottle. This will prevent any clogs in the nozzle and ensure a perfectly smooth application.
Cornstarch is surprisingly versatile around the house, and I’m always finding new ways to use it. You can discover even more surprising uses for cornstarch that I’ve shared on my blog.
9. Salt and Vinegar Oven Cleaner
Cleaning the oven is one of those chores many of us put off, but one of the best homemade cleaning products recipes for this job uses two simple pantry staples: salt and vinegar. This combination is a fantastic natural degreaser and abrasive. The vinegar works to dissolve tough, baked-on grease, while the salt provides the scrubbing power needed to lift away stubborn food residue without resorting to the harsh, fume-filled commercial oven cleaners. It’s a game-changer for getting your oven sparkling clean!
This powerful paste is my go-to for tackling the inside of my conventional oven, especially after a big holiday meal. It’s also incredibly effective at removing burnt-on grime from oven racks and degreasing the inside of the oven glass door. You can even use it to restore stovetop cooktops that have seen better days. The best part is knowing you’re cleaning where your food is cooked without any toxic chemicals.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this oven-cleaning paste is incredibly simple.
- Create the paste: In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of salt with 1/4 cup of white vinegar. Add a tablespoon of water at a time until you have a thick, spreadable consistency.
- Apply and wait: Generously apply the paste to the interior surfaces of your cold oven, focusing on the dirtiest spots. Let it sit for several hours or, for best results, overnight.
- Scrub and rinse: Gently scrape away the grime using a plastic or wooden scraper. Wipe everything clean with a damp cloth, rinsing the cloth frequently.
Important Note: This method requires some patience, as the paste needs time to work its magic. Always ensure your oven is completely cool before applying the mixture, and be gentle when scraping to avoid scratching any surfaces.
10. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Fresh Surface Scrub
For a cleaner that tackles grime and leaves behind an incredible, fresh scent, I often turn to this simple baking soda and lemon juice scrub. This is one of my favorite homemade cleaning products recipes because it combines the gentle abrasive power of baking soda with the natural degreasing and brightening properties of citric acid from fresh lemon juice. The resulting paste cuts through gunk and neutralizes odors without any synthetic fragrances.
This powerful yet natural scrub is fantastic for so many kitchen tasks. I use it to clean and deodorize my wooden cutting boards, scrub stains out of my kitchen sink, and remove tough, cooked-on messes from my stovetop. It works wonders on countertops, leaving them sparkling clean and smelling wonderfully citrusy. The slight fizzing action when you mix the ingredients helps to lift stubborn spots with minimal effort.
How to Make and Use It
Whipping up this fresh-scented scrub is quick and easy.
- Create the paste: In a small bowl, mix about 2 parts baking soda with 1 part fresh lemon juice. Add a tiny bit of water if needed to get a thick, paste-like consistency.
- Apply and wait: Spread the paste over the soiled surface and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse: Gently scrub the area with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry.
Important Note: Lemon juice is acidic, so it’s always smart to test this scrub on a small, inconspicuous area first. Avoid using it on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble to prevent any potential etching.
I absolutely love using lemon in my cleaning routines; it’s so effective and makes everything smell amazing.
Comparison of 10 Homemade Cleaning Recipes
| Item | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Vinegar and Baking Soda Cleaner | Low — simple mixing and fizz action | Minimal — white vinegar, baking soda, cloth | Breaks down grease, mineral deposits, general grime; fizzy lift | Countertops, appliances, soap scum, deodorizing fridge | Non-toxic, very low cost, versatile |
| Lemon Juice and Olive Oil Wood Polish | Low — mix and apply immediately | Fresh lemon juice, olive oil, soft cloth | Cleans light dirt, conditions and adds natural shine | Wooden furniture, tables, cutting boards, frames | Food-grade, conditions wood, pleasant scent |
| Baking Soda and Castile Soap Bathroom Scrub | Low–Medium — make paste and scrub | Baking soda, castile soap, water, scrub brush | Gentle abrasive cleaning; removes soap scum and stains | Porcelain tubs, shower surrounds, grout, fixtures | Plant-based, hypoallergenic, no harsh fumes |
| White Vinegar and Water Window Cleaner | Very low — simple dilution | White vinegar, water, squeegee or lint-free cloth | Streak-free glass, removes mineral deposits | Windows, glass doors, shower glass | Professional-quality shine, low cost |
| Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Grout Cleaner | Low–Medium — mix paste; use caution | Baking soda, 3% hydrogen peroxide, brush | Oxidizes stains, removes mold/mildew, brightens grout | Grout lines, tiled bathrooms, kitchen backsplashes | Strong stain removal, safer alternative to bleach |
| Dish Soap and Baking Soda Laundry Stain Remover | Low — mix small paste and apply | Dish soap, baking soda, water | Pre-treats oil/organic stains, deodorizes fabric | Clothing stains, table linens, bedding | Fabric-safe, inexpensive, effective on grease |
| Essential Oil and Vinegar All-Purpose Disinfectant | Low — dilute and add oils; shake before use | White vinegar, essential oils, spray bottle | Mild antimicrobial action with pleasant aroma | Counters, doorknobs, toys, high-touch surfaces | Aromatic, customizable scent, natural antimicrobial |
| Cornstarch and Vinegar Window and Mirror Streak Remover | Medium — dissolve cornstarch and strain for smooth mix | Cornstarch, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, water, cloth | Enhanced streak-free finish, reduced hazing on glass | Mirrors, shower enclosures, large windows, eyeglasses | Superior streak prevention, professional finish |
| Salt and Vinegar Oven Cleaner | Medium — make abrasive paste, apply and soak | Salt, white vinegar, water, scraper | Degreases and lifts baked-on food after soak | Oven interiors, racks, stovetop glass/doors | Food-safe heavy-duty cleaning, no toxic fumes |
| Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Fresh Surface Scrub | Low — mix paste and scrub | Baking soda, fresh lemon juice, water, sponge | Degreases, brightens surfaces, fresh citrus scent | Cutting boards, sinks, countertops, stovetops | Natural degreaser, fresh scent, food-grade ingredients |
A Clean Home, The Natural Way
And there you have it, ten of my absolute favorite homemade cleaning products recipes that prove you don’t need a cupboard full of harsh chemicals to get a sparkling clean home. Isn’t it empowering to know you can tackle almost any mess, from grimy grout to dusty wood furniture, with just a few simple, everyday ingredients? I find so much joy in this practical, back-to-basics approach to homemaking, and I truly hope you do, too.
Key Takeaways for Your DIY Cleaning Journey
As you venture into making your own cleaners, remember that the power often lies in the simplicity. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, vinegar cuts through grease and mineral deposits, and lemon juice brightens and deodorizes. You’ve seen how these pantry staples can be combined in different ways to create powerhouse solutions like the Baking Soda and Castile Soap Bathroom Scrub or the surprisingly effective Salt and Vinegar Oven Cleaner.
The real beauty of these recipes is their versatility. The all-purpose vinegar and essential oil spray isn’t just for countertops; it can be used on doorknobs, light switches, and so much more. This flexibility not only saves you money but also significantly reduces cabinet clutter.
Your Actionable Next Steps
Feeling inspired? Don’t let that feeling fade! The best way to start is to pick one or two recipes that solve a problem you’re dealing with right now.
- Struggling with soap scum? Mix up the bathroom scrub this weekend.
- Tired of streaky windows? The cornstarch and vinegar recipe is your new best friend.
- Notice a stubborn stain on a shirt? Whip up the dish soap and baking soda pre-treater before your next laundry day.
Start small, label your bottles clearly, and get a feel for what works best in your home. Once you see the incredible results for yourself, you might just find yourself reaching for that spray bottle of vinegar and water for just about everything. Building these habits is about making small, consistent changes that lead to a big impact.
The Broader Impact of Cleaning Naturally
Embracing these homemade cleaning products recipes is about more than just a tidy house; it’s about creating a healthier environment for you and your loved ones. You gain complete control over the ingredients you bring into your home, avoiding fragrances and additives that can be irritating. It’s a mindful, rewarding practice that connects you more deeply to your home and the products you use within it. For those looking to extend their commitment to a natural home beyond DIY recipes, exploring a wider range of eco-friendly household products can further enhance your sustainable living efforts.
Ultimately, mastering these simple formulas gives you the confidence to handle life’s messes effectively and affordably. You’ll be amazed at how well they work, and there’s a unique satisfaction in knowing you made the solution yourself.
What are your favorite DIY cleaning recipes?
