8 DIY Non-Toxic Cleaning Supplies: Safer, Cheaper, and Healthier Alternatives to Store-Bought Products
*2025 Warning*
The Hidden Health Risks of Commercial Cleaning Products
Big corporations have long marketed their cleaning products as essential for a clean and healthy home. However, many of these products contain harsh chemicals such as ammonia, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can harm your health and the environment.
Prolonged exposure to these chemicals has been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even long-term conditions such as hormonal imbalances or cancer. Furthermore, when washed down the drain, these chemicals contribute to indoor air pollution and waterway contamination.
DIY natural cleaning supplies offer a safer, more affordable alternative.
In contrast, DIY natural cleaning supplies offer a safer, more affordable alternative. They are made from simple, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for children, pets, and the environment.
Additionally, most natural cleaning recipes use common household staples, which means you can save money while reducing waste from single-use plastic packaging. Below are 8 effective and easy-to-make recipes for DIY non-toxic cleaning supplies.
With inflation rising, DIY products using natural ingredients are a great way to save money and keep your family healthy.
1. All-Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10–15 drops of essential oil (e.g., lemon, tea tree, or lavender)
Instructions:
- Combine the vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Add essential oils for fragrance and added antibacterial properties.
- Shake well before each use.
Uses: Great for cleaning countertops, kitchen surfaces, and bathroom fixtures. Avoid using stone surfaces like granite or marble due to the vinegar’s acidity.
2. Glass and Window Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Shake well to dissolve the cornstarch fully.
- Spray on glass surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for streak-free results.
Uses: Ideal for windows, mirrors, and glass tabletops.
3. Natural Floor Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1-gallon warm water
- 1/4 cup castile soap
- 10 drops of essential oil (e.g., peppermint or eucalyptus)
Instructions:
- Mix the water and castile soap in a bucket.
- Add essential oils for a refreshing scent.
- Mop floors as usual, then allow them to air dry.
Uses: Works well on tile, laminate, and hardwood floors (ensure the floor isn’t over-saturated for wood surfaces).
4. Non-Toxic Scrubbing Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 2 tablespoons castile soap
- 5 drops of essential oil (e.g., orange or tea tree)
- A splash of water (adjust to form a paste)
Instructions:
- Mix baking soda and castile soap in a small bowl.
- Add a few drops of essential oil and just enough water to create a paste.
- Apply the paste with a sponge and scrub, then rinse with water.
Uses: Perfect for sinks, tubs, and tough grime on kitchen countertops.
5. Laundry Detergent
Ingredients:
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 bar of unscented castile soap (grated)
- 10 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender or citrus)
Instructions:
- Mix the washing soda, baking soda, and grated soap in a large container.
- Add essential oil for fragrance.
- Store in an airtight container. Use 1–2 tablespoons per load of laundry.
Uses: Gentle yet effective for cleaning clothes, free of synthetic fragrances and dyes.
6. Natural Floor Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1-gallon warm water
- 1/4 cup castile soap
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 10 drops of essential oil (e.g., peppermint or eucalyptus)
Instructions:
- Combine warm water, castile soap, and vinegar in a bucket.
- Add essential oils for a fresh scent.
- Mop floors as usual and allow them to air dry.
Uses: Suitable for tile, vinyl, and laminate flooring. For hardwood floors, omit the vinegar to protect the finish.
7. DIY Floor Cleaner (Alternative Recipe)
Ingredients:
- 1-gallon warm water
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5–10 drops of essential oil (e.g., lemon or lavender)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bucket.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Mop floors, focusing on areas with dirt or stains, and let them air dry.
Uses: Excellent for wood and laminate floors due to the added olive oil for shine and protection.
8. DIY Air Freshener
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vodka or rubbing alcohol
- 10–15 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon baking soda for odor absorption
Instructions:
- Combine water and vodka in a spray bottle.
- Add essential oils and baking soda (if desired).
- Shake well before each use.
Uses: Spray into the air to refresh rooms, or use on fabrics like curtains and upholstery. Avoid over-saturating surfaces.
