7 Ways of Making Your Own Cleaning Supplies at Home Without Breaking the Bank

Ever wondered if those expensive cleaning products lining store shelves are worth the price tag? Creating your own cleaning supplies at home isn’t just budget-friendly—it’s also a smart way to reduce your exposure to harsh chemicals and minimize environmental impact.

With just a few simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, you’ll be able to tackle everything from stubborn bathroom grime to streaky windows. You’ll save money, reduce plastic waste, and gain the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in the products you’re using throughout your home.

Why DIY Cleaning Supplies Are Taking Over Home Maintenance

DIY cleaning supplies are revolutionizing home maintenance as more homeowners discover their incredible benefits. The shift away from commercial products isn’t just a passing trend—it’s becoming a lifestyle choice for practical reasons. Homemade cleaning solutions offer greater control over ingredients, significant cost savings, and reduced environmental impact. With simple pantry staples and a few minutes of preparation, you can create effective cleaners that work just as well as store-bought versions without the drawbacks. This growing movement reflects a broader desire for healthier homes, sustainable practices, and budget-friendly alternatives that don’t compromise on cleaning power.

10 Essential Ingredients for Homemade Cleaning Products

Creating your own cleaning supplies starts with having the right ingredients on hand. These versatile staples will form the foundation of numerous effective cleaning solutions for every room in your home.

Baking Soda: The Versatile Powerhouse

Baking soda excels as a gentle abrasive that scours surfaces without scratching. Its alkaline properties neutralize acidic odors in refrigerators, trash cans, and carpets while dissolving grease and dirt. Sprinkle it on kitchen counters, mix into a paste for tough stains, or combine with vinegar for a powerful fizzing action that clears clogged drains naturally.

Vinegar: Nature’s Disinfectant

White distilled vinegar contains 5% acetic acid, making it a powerful disinfectant that kills 82% of mold species and many bacteria. Its acidic nature cuts through soap scum, mineral deposits, and sticky residues effortlessly. Use it diluted in water (1:1 ratio) for windows, countertops, and appliances, or heat it to boost cleaning power. Its smell dissipates quickly after drying.

Essential Oils: Fragrance with Benefits

Essential oils do more than mask odors—they provide antimicrobial benefits while personalizing your cleaning products. Tea tree oil fights fungus and bacteria, lavender offers calming properties, citrus oils cut grease, and peppermint repels pests naturally. Just 5-10 drops per cleaner formula provides therapeutic benefits and transforms vinegar’s scent into something refreshing and invigorating.

Castile Soap: The Gentle Cleaner

Castile soap, made from vegetable oils (typically olive), creates an eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning base with impressive versatility. Its concentrated formula requires just 1-2 tablespoons per cleaning solution. Use it for everything from all-purpose sprays to floor cleaners and laundry detergent. Castile soap won’t strip natural oils from surfaces yet effectively removes dirt, grime, and bacteria.

Lemon Juice: Natural Brightener

Lemon juice contains citric acid that dissolves soap scum, hard water deposits, and stubborn stains. Its natural bleaching properties brighten surfaces and fabrics without harsh chemicals. Apply it directly to cutting boards to disinfect, mix with salt for copper cleaning, or combine with baking soda for a powerful sink scrub. The fresh scent leaves your home smelling naturally clean.

How to Make an All-Purpose Cleaner That Actually Works

Creating your own all-purpose cleaner isn’t just economical—it’s also incredibly effective when made with the right ingredients. These DIY solutions can tackle kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and everyday messes without harsh chemicals.

Basic Vinegar Solution

This powerhouse cleaner combines white vinegar’s natural disinfecting properties with water for a solution that cuts through grease and grime. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle—typically 1 cup of each. Add 10-15 drops of tea tree, lemon, or lavender essential oil to combat vinegar’s scent while boosting cleaning power. This solution works beautifully on countertops, sinks, and most hard surfaces.

Citrus-Infused Cleaner

Elevate your cleaning routine with this citrus-powered solution that harnesses natural oils from peels. Fill a mason jar with citrus peels (lemon, orange, or grapefruit work well) and cover completely with white vinegar. Seal and let sit for 1-2 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain the liquid, then mix equal parts with water in a spray bottle. The natural citrus oils add degreasing power while creating a refreshing scent that eliminates vinegar’s strong aroma.

Creating Your Own Natural Glass and Window Cleaner

Making your own glass cleaner is surprisingly simple and effective. You’ll achieve streak-free shine while avoiding the ammonia found in commercial products. The secret lies in combining vinegar’s cleaning power with ingredients that prevent streaking. Mix one part white vinegar with one part distilled water in a spray bottle, then add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch – this ingredient helps eliminate streaks completely. For a pleasant scent, add 5-10 drops of lemon or orange essential oil. Spray directly on windows, mirrors, or glass surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth or crumpled newspaper for perfect results every time.

Homemade Solutions for Tough Kitchen Grease

Degreasing Spray for Stovetops

Kitchen grease meets its match with this powerful homemade degreasing spray. Mix ¼ cup dish soap, ½ cup baking soda, and ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Shake gently to combine without creating excess foam. Spray directly onto greasy stovetops, range hoods, or backsplashes and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Wipe away with a damp microfiber cloth, revealing a clean, grease-free surface that commercial cleaners would charge a premium to achieve.

DIY Oven Cleaner Without Harsh Chemicals

Transform your grimy oven without breathing toxic fumes. Create a paste by mixing ½ cup baking soda with 2-3 tablespoons water until it reaches a spreadable consistency. Remove oven racks, then apply the paste to all interior surfaces, avoiding heating elements. Let sit overnight to break down stubborn grease. The next morning, spray white vinegar over the dried paste (it will foam), then wipe clean with a damp cloth. This method tackles even baked-on messes without the chemical smell of store-bought cleaners.

Bathroom Brilliance: DIY Toilet and Shower Cleaners

Fizzing Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Transform toilet cleaning into a science experiment with this powerful fizzing cleaner. Mix ½ cup baking soda with ¼ cup citric acid in a small jar, adding 10-15 drops of tea tree or lemon essential oil for antibacterial properties. When ready to clean, sprinkle the mixture into your toilet bowl, pour ½ cup vinegar over it, and watch it fizz. Let it work for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush. This natural solution breaks down stubborn stains and eliminates odors without harsh chemicals.

Mold and Mildew Shower Spray

Keep shower mold at bay with this simple preventative spray. Combine 1 cup water with 1 cup white vinegar in a spray bottle, then add 10 drops of tea tree oil and 5 drops of lemon essential oil. Shake well before each use and spray on shower walls, doors, and fixtures after bathing. No rinsing needed—this solution works by preventing mold spores from taking hold. For existing mildew, spray generously, let sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with an old toothbrush before rinsing.

Crafting Eco-Friendly Floor Cleaners for Different Surfaces

Wood Floor Cleaner

Create a gentle wood floor cleaner by mixing ¼ cup white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water. Add 5-7 drops of lemon or orange essential oil for a pleasant scent and extra cleaning power. Dampen a microfiber mop (never soak wooden floors) and clean with the grain. This solution cuts through dirt without damaging finishes and costs about 80% less than commercial wood cleaners. For stubborn spots, add a drop of castile soap to your mixture.

Tile and Linoleum Solution

Mix ½ cup baking soda, ¼ cup white vinegar, and 1 gallon of hot water for a powerful tile and linoleum cleaner. Add 10 drops of tea tree or eucalyptus oil for disinfecting properties. This solution cuts through grime, removes soap scum, and brightens grout without harsh chemicals. For deep cleaning, let the solution sit for 5 minutes before mopping. The entire mixture costs under $1 per batch and works better than $5-$8 commercial options.

Laundry Made Simple: Homemade Detergents and Stain Removers

Powder Laundry Detergent Recipe

Making your own powder laundry detergent saves $40-50 annually while avoiding synthetic fragrances and dyes. Mix 1 cup grated castile soap, 1 cup washing soda, and 1 cup baking soda in an airtight container. Add 10-15 drops of lavender or lemon essential oil for fragrance. Use 2-3 tablespoons per load, storing the mixture in a glass jar with a wooden scoop for easy access.

Natural Stain Fighting Solutions

Create effective stain removers with ingredients already in your pantry. For grease stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the spot, let sit for 30 minutes, then wash normally. Blood stains disappear when treated immediately with cold water and hydrogen peroxide. For grass stains, mix equal parts vinegar and water, soak for 30 minutes, then wash. These solutions work without the harsh chemicals found in commercial products.

How to Store and Label Your Homemade Cleaning Supplies

Choosing the Right Containers

Selecting appropriate containers for your DIY cleaning products is crucial for effectiveness and safety. Glass spray bottles are ideal for most homemade cleaners as they prevent chemical reactions that might occur with plastic containers. For vinegar-based solutions, amber or cobalt blue glass bottles help protect the contents from light degradation. Mason jars work perfectly for powdered cleaners like DIY scrubs and laundry detergent, offering airtight seals that maintain freshness. If you must use plastic, opt for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles marked with recycling symbol #2, as these resist chemical breakdown better than other plastics.

Creating Clear Labels

Proper labeling prevents confusion and potential safety hazards when storing homemade cleaning supplies. Create detailed labels that include the product name, ingredients, date made, and basic usage instructions. Waterproof labels are essential since cleaning products often encounter moisture—use shipping labels covered with clear packing tape or purchase water-resistant label paper. For a polished look, try chalkboard labels with chalk markers or print custom designs using label-making software. Always include warning symbols if the product contains potentially harmful ingredients like essential oils that shouldn’t be used around pets or children.

Organizing Your Cleaning Cabinet

Establishing an organized storage system makes your homemade cleaners more accessible and extends their shelf life. Group similar products together—kitchen cleaners in one section, bathroom products in another. Install adjustable shelving to accommodate bottles of different heights, and use turntables or lazy Susans for easy access to items at the back of deep cabinets. Store frequently used products at eye level and place seasonal or specialty cleaners on higher shelves. Keep cleaning tools like microfiber cloths and scrub brushes near relevant solutions for efficient cleaning sessions. Consider child-safety locks if you have young children in your home.

Safety Considerations

Prioritize safety when storing your DIY cleaning supplies to prevent accidents. Always keep homemade cleaners out of children’s reach, preferably in high cabinets with childproof locks. Avoid storing cleaning products near food items or medications to prevent cross-contamination or accidental ingestion. Never transfer homemade cleaners into food containers like water bottles or beverage pitchers. Store reactive ingredients separately—keep vinegar-based cleaners away from baking soda solutions to prevent unintended reactions. For homes with pets, secure cabinets with pet-proof latches, as many essential oils commonly used in homemade cleaners can be toxic to animals.

Understanding Shelf Life

Unlike commercial products with preservatives, homemade cleaning supplies have limited shelf lives you should track. Vinegar-based all-purpose cleaners typically last 1-2 months, while citrus-infused vinegar solutions remain effective for about 3-4 weeks after straining. Baking soda mixtures stay potent for approximately 2-3 months when stored in airtight containers. Homemade laundry detergent keeps for 6-12 months in a moisture-free environment. Create a simple tracking system by adding “use by” dates to your labels or maintaining a cleaning supply inventory in your phone. For maximum effectiveness, make smaller batches more frequently rather than large quantities that might expire before use.

The Cost Comparison: Store-Bought vs. Homemade Cleaning Products

Breaking Down the Savings

Making your own cleaning supplies can slash your household budget significantly. The average American family spends approximately $600-800 annually on commercial cleaning products, while homemade alternatives cost just a fraction of this amount. For example, a 32-ounce bottle of all-purpose cleaner typically costs $3-5, but the homemade version using vinegar, water, and essential oils costs roughly $0.50-0.75 per bottle. This represents savings of 80-90% per product.

Long-Term Financial Benefits

The initial investment in DIY cleaning supplies ingredients pays dividends over time. A $20 investment in basic ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils can produce multiple batches of various cleaners that would cost over $100 if purchased commercially. Castile soap, though more expensive upfront at $15-20 per bottle, creates dozens of cleaning products when diluted properly, lasting up to six months for most households.

Hidden Costs of Commercial Products

Store-bought cleaners come with hidden expenses beyond their sticker price. Many require specialized products for different surfaces—window cleaners, bathroom disinfectants, kitchen degreasers—forcing you to purchase multiple items. Commercial products also frequently use “planned obsolescence” strategies, including concentrated formulas that run out quickly and trigger-style spray mechanisms that break before the product is depleted, requiring replacement.

Cost Per Use Analysis

When comparing costs per cleaning session, the difference becomes even more apparent:

Environmental Cost Savings

Beyond direct financial benefits, homemade cleaning products reduce environmental costs. The average household discards approximately 25-30 plastic cleaning product containers annually, contributing to landfill waste and plastic pollution. By reusing containers for homemade solutions, you’ll eliminate this waste while reducing the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and shipping commercial products.

Environmental Benefits of Making Your Own Cleaning Supplies at Home

Reducing Plastic Waste

Making your own cleaning supplies dramatically reduces plastic waste in your home. Every year, Americans discard over 30 million tons of plastic packaging, with cleaning product containers making up a significant portion. By creating homemade cleaners, you’ll reuse the same bottles repeatedly instead of buying new plastic containers every few weeks. This simple switch can eliminate 20-30 plastic bottles from your household waste annually. Additionally, when you do need containers, you can choose sustainable options like glass spray bottles that last for years rather than disposable plastic alternatives.

Decreasing Chemical Pollution

Commercial cleaning products release harmful chemicals into waterways when rinsed down drains. Your DIY alternatives use biodegradable ingredients that break down naturally without harming aquatic ecosystems. The EPA reports that conventional cleaning products contribute to water pollution, with phosphates in detergents causing algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels in lakes and rivers. Homemade cleaners typically use vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap—ingredients that don’t persist in the environment or disrupt aquatic life cycles.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Store-bought cleaners often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contaminate indoor air. The American Lung Association warns that these chemicals can trigger asthma attacks, headaches, and respiratory issues. Switching to homemade cleaning supplies eliminates these airborne toxins, creating a healthier breathing environment. Research shows indoor air pollution levels can be 2-5 times higher than outdoor levels due to cleaning product emissions. Your DIY cleaners, especially those scented with essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances, help maintain cleaner indoor air while still effectively sanitizing surfaces.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

Manufacturing, packaging, and transporting commercial cleaning products generates significant carbon emissions. The production process alone for conventional cleaners requires petroleum-based ingredients and energy-intensive manufacturing. By making cleaners at home, you eliminate these transportation emissions and reduce manufacturing demand. A University of Massachusetts study found that households using DIY cleaning products can reduce their cleaning-related carbon footprint by up to 40%. Plus, most homemade cleaning ingredients—like vinegar and baking soda—require less energy-intensive production methods than their commercial counterparts.

Supporting Sustainable Ingredient Sources

The ingredients in homemade cleaners typically come from more sustainable sources than those in commercial products. Many store-bought cleaners contain palm oil derivatives, which contribute to deforestation and habitat destruction. Your DIY alternatives rely on renewable resources like citrus oils and plant-based ingredients. When you choose organic essential oils and sustainably-sourced castile soap, you further enhance the environmental benefits of your cleaning routine. These simple ingredients have lower environmental impact scores across their entire life cycles—from raw material extraction to disposal.

Conclusion: Embracing the DIY Cleaning Revolution

Making your own cleaning supplies isn’t just a money-saving hack—it’s a lifestyle transformation that puts you in control of your home environment. With just a few simple ingredients from your pantry you can effectively clean every surface in your home while avoiding harsh chemicals.

The benefits extend far beyond your wallet. You’ll reduce plastic waste dramatically contribute to a healthier planet and create a safer space for your family. Plus there’s something deeply satisfying about knowing exactly what’s in the products you’re using throughout your home.

Ready to get started? Your DIY cleaning journey begins with just a few basic ingredients and some empty bottles. It’s time to revolutionize your cleaning routine while saving money protecting your health and caring for our environment—all from your kitchen counter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of homemade cleaning supplies?

Homemade cleaning supplies offer three key benefits: they’re cost-effective (saving 80-90% compared to commercial products), healthier (free from harsh chemicals and VOCs), and environmentally friendly (reducing plastic waste and chemical pollution). Using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda allows you to clean effectively while knowing exactly what’s in your products.

What basic ingredients do I need to make DIY cleaners?

You need just a few pantry staples: white distilled vinegar (disinfects), baking soda (scrubs and deodorizes), castile soap (all-purpose cleaner), essential oils (fragrance and antimicrobial properties), and lemon juice (brightens and disinfects). These versatile ingredients can be combined to create effective solutions for every room in your home.

How do I make an all-purpose cleaner?

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add 10-15 drops of essential oils like lemon, tea tree, or lavender for fragrance and additional cleaning power. For a citrus-infused version, soak citrus peels in vinegar for two weeks, strain, and dilute with water. This solution works great on most surfaces except marble and granite.

Can I make my own window cleaner?

Yes! Mix 1 cup water, ½ cup white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use. This natural solution provides streak-free shine without ammonia or harsh chemicals. Apply with a microfiber cloth and buff dry for best results. It costs pennies compared to commercial glass cleaners.

How do I make cleaning solutions for kitchen grease?

Create a powerful degreaser by mixing 1 tablespoon dish soap, 2 tablespoons baking soda, and ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. For tough oven messes, make a paste with baking soda and water, spread it on grimy surfaces, let sit overnight, then wipe clean. These solutions tackle grease effectively without toxic fumes.

What DIY cleaners work best for bathrooms?

For toilets, mix ½ cup baking soda, ¼ cup citric acid, and 10 drops essential oil. Sprinkle in bowl, add vinegar for fizzing action, and scrub. For shower mold, combine equal parts vinegar and water with tea tree oil in a spray bottle. Apply after showering to prevent mildew growth. Both solutions cost significantly less than commercial alternatives.

How do I make floor cleaners for different surfaces?

For wood floors: Mix ¼ cup white vinegar with 1 gallon warm water and 5-10 drops essential oil. For tile and linoleum: Combine ½ cup baking soda, ¼ cup vinegar, and 1 gallon hot water. These gentle yet effective solutions preserve your flooring while costing about 90% less than store-bought products.

Can I make my own laundry detergent?

Yes! Combine 1 cup grated castile soap, 1 cup washing soda, and ½ cup baking soda. Add 20 drops essential oil if desired. Use 2-3 tablespoons per load. This powder detergent costs approximately $0.05-0.10 per load compared to $0.20-0.50 for commercial detergents, saving $40-50 annually while avoiding synthetic fragrances and dyes.

How should I store homemade cleaning products?

Store solutions in glass spray bottles or mason jars with tight-fitting lids. Always label containers with contents and date made. Keep in a cool, dark place away from children and pets. Most liquid cleaners last 1-3 months, while dry mixes can last 6-12 months. Make smaller batches to ensure effectiveness.

How much money can I save with DIY cleaning products?

The average family spends $600-800 annually on commercial cleaning products. By switching to homemade alternatives, you can save 80-90% per product. A $20 investment in basic ingredients can produce multiple batches of cleaners worth over $200 retail. Plus, you’ll reduce environmental impact by eliminating 20-30 plastic bottles from your yearly waste.