10 All-Natural Alternatives to Chemical Household Cleaners You Can Make at Home
In the hustle and bustle of modern living, it's easy to rely on store-bought cleaning products laden with harsh chemicals. However, there's a rewarding alternative, and it can be crafted right in your home. Embracing all-natural cleaners not only protects the environment but also ensures a safer space for your family. Here at Bumble Holler Farm, we believe that nature provides everything we need to maintain a healthy home. Let’s dive deep into some fantastic do-it-yourself (DIY) all-natural alternatives to chemical household cleaners.
1. Vinegar and Baking Soda: The Dynamic Duo
This classic combination leverages the natural cleansing power of vinegar and the scrubbing capability of baking soda. Use it to clean surfaces, unclog drains, and even freshen up your laundry.
Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner. For tougher stains, sprinkle baking soda on the surface, spray the vinegar solution, scrub, and rinse.
2. Lemon and Salt Scrub
Lemons are not just for culinary delights—they’re fantastic at cutting through grease and stains. Paired with salt, they form a natural scrub that can clean cutting boards, sinks, and more.
Simply cut a lemon in half, sprinkle salt on the cut side, and scrub over the surface needing cleaning. Rinse off with warm water for a citrusy-fresh finish.
3. Olive Oil and Lemon Wood Polish
Commercial wood polishes can often leave residues; however, making your wood polish with olive oil and lemon ensures a beautiful, clean shine without any lingering chemicals.
Combine 2 parts olive oil with 1 part lemon juice. Apply with a soft cloth, buff into the wood, and watch the surface glow.
4. All-Natural Dish Soap
For squeaky clean dishes without the synthetic scent, consider an all-natural dish soap. Our very own All-Natural Dish Soap is crafted with eco-friendly ingredients to get dishes sparkling clean.
5. Essential Oils for Sanitation
Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus have strong antibacterial properties making them excellent natural disinfectants. Add a few drops to your homemade cleaners for an extra clean boost.
Dilute 10-12 drops of your chosen essential oil into a cup of water, and use it to sanitize surfaces. Adjust the quantity depending on the surface needs.
6. DIY Glass Cleaner
Forget commercial glass cleaners with ammonia. Instead, make a streak-free glass cleaner using vinegar and cornstarch—a surprising but effective duo.
Blend 2 cups of water, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use and spray onto glass and mirrors, then wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
7. Baking Soda Carpet Deodorizer
Commercial carpet deodorizers are often scented with artificial fragrances, whereas baking soda naturally absorbs odors. You can customize it with essential oils for a personal touch.
Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Sprinkle on carpets, leave for 15 minutes, and then vacuum.
8. Natural Floor Cleaner
For sparkling floors, combine vinegar’s cleaning power with essential oils for a pleasing aroma. This solution works perfectly on a variety of surfaces.
Mix half a cup of vinegar with 2 gallons of warm water. Add 10 drops of essential oils such as lemon or lavender for scent. Mop floors as needed.
9. Homemade Mold and Mildew Cleaner
Fight mold and mildew with a powerhouse spray of tea tree oil and vinegar. This natural combo is perfect for bathrooms and moist areas.
Combine 2 cups of water, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 15 drops of tea tree oil in a spray bottle. Spray on affected areas, let sit, then scrub and rinse.
10. Baking Soda and Vinegar Drain Cleaner
Clear clogged drains without resorting to harsh chemicals with this simple yet effective method. Vinegar and baking soda provide a fizzing action that helps break down blockages.
Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a half cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 15 minutes, then flush with boiling water.
Not only are these DIY cleaners environmentally-friendly, but they also empower you to control what goes into your cleaning routine. For more detailed recipes and a range of all-natural cleaning products, explore our Old Fashioned Laundry Soap and other offerings at Bumble Holler Farm.
Embrace the power of natural ingredients and step away from chemical-laden products. Your home, your body, and the planet will thank you. Join us on this journey by exploring our full range of natural home and body care products, crafted with love and sustainability in mind.