Why Make Your Own Cleaning Products?
Commercial cleaning sprays work well, but many contain synthetic fragrances, harsh surfactants, and chemicals that can irritate skin, trigger allergies, or linger in indoor air. Making your own cleaning solutions is straightforward, inexpensive, and significantly reduces the plastic packaging that ends up in landfill. The ingredients involved — white vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, washing soda, and a few essential oils — are widely available and genuinely effective.
Here are three tried-and-tested DIY recipes for everyday cleaning tasks.
Recipe 1: Everyday All-Purpose Spray
This is your go-to spray for kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, appliance exteriors, and general wipe-downs.
Ingredients
- 250ml white distilled vinegar
- 250ml water
- 15–20 drops tea tree essential oil (natural antimicrobial properties)
- 10 drops lemon essential oil (cuts grease, fresh scent)
Method
- Combine vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle.
- Add the essential oils and shake gently to mix.
- Spray onto surfaces, leave for 30 seconds, then wipe with a microfibre cloth.
Important: Do not use on natural stone surfaces such as marble or granite — the acidity of vinegar can etch the surface over time. Use Recipe 3 below for stone.
Recipe 2: Bicarbonate of Soda Scrub
For tougher jobs — greasy hobs, stained sinks, grimy grout — a gentle abrasive scrub is more effective than a spray alone.
Ingredients
- 125g bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
- 60ml liquid castile soap
- 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- A few drops of water to adjust consistency
Method
- Mix the bicarbonate of soda and castile soap together in a bowl until a thick paste forms.
- Add essential oil and stir.
- Apply with a sponge or old toothbrush and scrub in circular motions.
- Rinse well with warm water.
This paste is excellent for removing limescale from taps, brightening ceramic sinks, and cleaning oven interiors.
Recipe 3: Gentle Surface Spray (Stone-Safe)
For natural stone worktops, wooden surfaces, and delicate areas where vinegar is unsuitable.
Ingredients
- 500ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon liquid castile soap
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Shake gently before each use (the mixture can separate slightly).
- Spray on surface and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
Essential Oil Quick Guide
| Oil | Properties | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Tea Tree | Antimicrobial, antifungal | Bathrooms, kitchens |
| Lemon | Degreasing, fresh scent | Kitchen surfaces, taps |
| Eucalyptus | Antibacterial, strong cleaner | Scrubs, heavy-duty tasks |
| Lavender | Mild antiseptic, pleasant scent | General surfaces, bedrooms |
| Peppermint | Antimicrobial, fresh scent | Bins, pet areas |
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store sprays in dark glass or opaque bottles to protect essential oils from UV degradation.
- Use vinegar-based sprays within 2–3 months for best results.
- Keep scrub paste in an airtight jar and use within 4–6 weeks.
- Label all bottles clearly with the recipe name and date made.
A Simple Switch With Real Impact
Switching even two or three of your regular cleaning products to DIY alternatives reduces chemical exposure in your home, cuts your cleaning budget, and contributes meaningfully to less plastic waste. Start with the all-purpose spray — it's the easiest to make and versatile enough to replace several store-bought products at once.