Are you tired of spending a fortune on cleaning products that promise a sparkling home but leave you feeling disappointed? The truth is that many of these so-called miracle cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage your surfaces and your health.
Did you know indoor air pollution can be 2-5 times worse than outdoor air quality? Store-bought cleaning products are a major contributor to this problem. It’s ironic that we think that keeping our houses clean will make us healthier. But many of these store-bought chemical cleaners contain toxic ingredients that irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs, ultimately risking your family’s health.
But there’s hope! Many homemade (DIY) and eco-friendly cleaning options are quick, effective, and gentle on the planet. After some trial and error (and maybe a few too many “oops” moments), I’ve found a winning combo of DIY cleaners and some brands that keep my home spick and span without guilt. Here is my list of 12 green cleaning products, sourced from cleaning experts online.
1. All-Purpose Cleaner
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To create an effective and eco-friendly cleaning solution, combine 1 cup of water with 1 cup of white vinegar and add 15-20 drops of lemon essential oil to add a citrus, squeaky clean smell if desired.
Vinegar breaks down grease, mineral deposits, and certain bacteria, while water serves as a base, making cleaning various surfaces easier. A 10% concentration of acetic acid (the main part of vinegar) can effectively fight off germs, especially when mixed with 1.5% citric acid.
2. Baking Soda Scrub
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Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a mild alkali substance that helps dissolve dirt and grease. When a paste using baking soda and water is used, it forms a powerful cleaner. This cleaner efficiently removes tough stains and grime through gentle abrasion.
It works well on all sorts of surfaces, such as kitchen countertops, stovetops, and sinks, without scratching. The mild abrasiveness helps break up stubborn residue and even deodorize, leaving things smelling fresh.
3. Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner
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Sal Suds is an exceptionally effective cleaning solution, thanks to its biodegradable and non-toxic formula. Made with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, it is safe, efficient, and eco-friendly. This powerful cleaner easily cuts through grease and dirt on almost any surface without leaving harmful residues.
This versatile cleaner can be used for many cleaning tasks, including mopping floors, washing dishes, and cleaning laundry. It is a great all-in-one product for people who care about the planet.
4. Disinfecting Spray
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Making a disinfecting spray at home with hydrogen peroxide and tea tree oil is effortless and eco-friendly! This combo packs a punch against bacteria and viruses on surfaces in your home and is made of naturally occurring, biodegradable ingredients.
Mix 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup of distilled water in a spray bottle, then add a few drops of tea tree oil and give it a good shake. Spray it on surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and light switches, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to do its magic. The best part is that it leaves no chemical residue, making it perfect for homes with kids and pets.
5. Branch Basics’ Concentrate
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Branch Basics Concentrate is a versatile cleaner suitable for many household cleaning tasks. It replaces your other cleaning products, giving you a great clean when you use it with a starter kit or refillable options.
In addition, it’s biodegradable, fragrance-free, and non-GMO, made with natural ingredients like baking soda and organic chamomile. It’s tough on dirt but easy on the environment. Just fill the bottle with water, add the concentrate, shake it up, and you’re ready. Diluting the concentrate with water can save you money and reduce plastic waste, as a single bottle can create multiple cleaners for different purposes.
6. Homemade Castile Soap Degreaser
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Whipping up an effective and eco-friendly cleaner has never been this easy. Mix 2 cups of water with 1/2 teaspoon of Castile soap and a tablespoon of baking soda.
Castile is a vegetable-based soap that removes oils and grime, making cleanup a breeze. Baking soda helps neutralize odors and adds extra grease-fighting power. Pour this mixture into a spray bottle, and voila—you have a fresh-smelling cleaner that tackles tough stains and leaves surfaces shining.
7. Drain Cleaner
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Keeping your drains in the kitchen and bathroom clear and smelling fresh is possible with two everyday ingredients: baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, then follow it with a cup of white vinegar. You’ll see some fizzing action that helps break down gunk and eliminate odors. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then rinse the drain with hot water.
This dynamic acid-base reaction effectively cleans grime and tackles minor clogs, keeping your drains in top shape. A hot water flush removes any remaining residue. It’s a gentle solution for regular drain maintenance—easy, effective, and kind to the planet.
8. Wood Polish
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This homemade polish can be made with olive oil, white vinegar, and a few drops of lemon essential oil. It effectively removes dust and minor scratches while providing a shine that makes the wood look new.
Olive oil is a natural conditioner that helps restore the wood’s natural shine and luster, while vinegar enhances the appearance without relying on harsh chemicals.
9. Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent
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Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent is a go-to for powerful yet gentle cleaning. Made with plant-derived cleaning agents and enzymes, it’s biodegradable, hard on stains, yet soft on fabrics.
In addition, it’s free from artificial colors and soft enough for sensitive skin, making it perfect for all your family’s laundry needs. Mrs. Meyer’s also has a bunch of refreshing garden-inspired scents like Lavender, Basil, and Lemon Verbena, giving your laundry that amazing clean sheets smell.
10. Dishwashing Detergent
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Making your own dishwashing detergent is a simple and budget-friendly alternative to those store-bought options packed with harsh chemicals. To whip it up, combine one cup each of washing soda, baking soda, and citric acid, along with half a cup of kosher salt. Toss in 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil for a nice scent. Store it in an airtight container, and use one to two tablespoons per load.
Washing soda helps remove stains and grease, while baking soda amplifies the cleaning power and neutralizes odors. Citric acid removes hard water spots, and kosher salt gently scrubs away any leftover food. This homemade mix is safe for your dishes and dishwasher, plus it’s kind to the planet.
11. Carpet Stain Remover
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Combine 1/4 teaspoon white vinegar, a teaspoon dish soap, and 1 quart of water to create an effective and environmentally friendly carpet cleaner. This mixture works well by lifting and breaking down the stain.
Let it sit for 10 minutes after application, and remember not to over-wet the stain with the solution. Afterwards, wipe it off with a clean cloth, leaving your carpet clean and refreshed.
12. Stovetop Degreaser
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Combine one tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of dish soap to create an effective stovetop degreaser. The baking soda helps lift grease while gently scrubbing the surface, and the dish soap works to cut through oil and dirt.
This simple mixture can quickly tackle tough, greasy buildup on your stove.
No matter what cleaners you choose, make sure you’re using them correctly to get the best possible clean.