DIY Natural Cleaning Products: Simple Recipes That Actually Work

Sharing DIY Natural Cleaning Products that actually work.

Hi friends! How are you? I hope that you’re enjoying the morning. I have a packed day of appointments and P has an orthodontist appointment. Hoping we can hop in the pool afterwards!

For today, I wanted to talk about cleaning products. The more I learn about conventional cleaning products, the more creeped out I am. If you’re interested in cleaner DIY options, I wanted to talk about how to make your own DIY natural cleaning products that work just as well (if not better!) than store-bought versions, without all the harsh chemicals. These are safe for kids, pets, and the planet, and many can be made with ingredients you already have at home.

DIY Natural Cleaning Products

Why Switch to Natural Cleaning Products?

Conventional cleaners often contain toxins and harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, phthalates, and formaldehyde, which can cause irritation and long-term health issues. Switching to natural alternatives helps reduce your toxic load, supports a healthier indoor environment, and cuts down on plastic waste and packaging.

Top Ingredients to Stock for Natural Cleaning

Before you start mixing, here are some essential ingredients to have on hand:

White Vinegar – antibacterial and great for cutting through grease

Baking Soda – excellent for scrubbing and deodorizing

Castile Soap – natural, biodegradable soap base

Essential Oils (like tea tree, lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) – for fragrance and antimicrobial properties

Hydrogen Peroxide – a natural disinfectant

Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl) – kills germs and evaporates quickly

Washing Soda – stronger than baking soda; useful in laundry and tough jobs

Distilled Water – prevents mineral buildup in spray bottles

Glass spray bottles — I get ours from Amazon

5 Easy DIY Natural Cleaning Recipes

1. All-Purpose Cleaner

Great for countertops, sinks, and bathroom surfaces.

1/2 cup white vinegar

2 cups distilled water

1 tsp castile soap

10 drops tea tree oil + 10 drops lemon essential oil

Combine in a spray bottle and shake gently. Avoid using on marble or granite.

2. Glass + Mirror Cleaner

Streak-free and natural.

1/4 cup white vinegar

1/4 cup rubbing alcohol

1 tbsp cornstarch

2 cups distilled water

Optional: 5 drops essential oil

Shake well before each use and spray onto glass or mirror surfaces.

3. Natural Disinfecting Spray

Perfect for high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches.

1 cup rubbing alcohol (70% or higher)

1 cup distilled water

20 drops tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil

Combine in a spray bottle. Let sit on surfaces for 30 seconds before wiping.

4. Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Fights odors and stains naturally.

1/2 cup baking soda

1/4 cup white vinegar

Pour into the bowl and let fizz. Scrub with a toilet brush and flush.

5. Soft Scrub for Bathtubs + Sinks

Great for soap scum and tough grime.

1/2 cup baking soda

2 tbsp castile soap

5 drops lemon essential oil

Mix into a paste, apply with a sponge, scrub, and rinse well.

Bonus: Natural Air Freshener Spray

Tired of synthetic fragrances?

Try this:

1/2 cup distilled water

2 tbsp rubbing alcohol

15 drops lavender + 10 drops orange essential oil

Spray into the air or onto fabric surfaces (test first).

Making your own natural cleaning products is a small change that makes a big impact. Not only will you reduce your exposure to harmful toxins, but you’ll also save money and cut down on environmental waste.

Also, if you’re reading this and are like, “I love this idea but I won’t actually do it,” here are some of my favorite natural options:

– Branch Basics (the best everything cleaner!!)

– Thrive Market brands <— this link gets you 40% off your first order

If you try any of these recipes, let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to pin this post or share with a friend  🙂