homemade cleaning products - Something Splendid

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In a world increasingly focused on health and sustainability, the products we use in our homes are more important than ever. From harmful chemicals to environmentally damaging packaging, the conventional cleaning supplies on store shelves often leave much to be desired. But what if you could take control of what goes into your cleaning regimen and, at the same time, make a positive impact on your health and the environment?

Enter homemade cleaning products. They allow you to sidestep the questionable ingredients found in commercial products and embrace a simpler, greener lifestyle. Imagine a home sparkling clean without the harsh chemicals, all while minimizing your ecological footprint.

In this article, we’ll look at some easy and effective recipes. Whether you’re a cleaning novice or a seasoned pro looking to switch up your routine, join us as we discover how a few simple ingredients can transform your home into a cleaner, healthier space.

All-purpose spray cleaner

To make all-purpose cleaner, put 2 cups white vinegar, 1 cup water, the rind of one large lemon, and 2 rosemary sprigs in a quart jar. Top off with water, cover, and let set 2 weeks. Then strain and transfer to a spray bottle. — image links to free printable pdf

Letting it set for two weeks allows the lemon rind and rosemary to infuse the mixture. You might be surprised to see the addition of rosemary here. We like to grow rosemary, and it’s wonderful to use with cooking. Like lemon, it also has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties.

Resting cleaner

This cleaner is perfect for tubs, showers, ovens, etc. If you use it as an oven cleaner, don’t combine with heat. It should rest at room temperature.

Glass cleaner

One thing I’ve noticed is that it’s impossible to get all the streaks removed when I’m using towels that have been dried with dryer sheets. Ugggh. They leave behind some sort of residue that works against you. (They also make it harder to remove lint from your dryer’s lint tray.)

Dishwasher detergent

First, let’s talk about cleaning the dishwasher itself. Put a small bowl or sturdy cup full of white vinegar on the top rack and sprinkle baking soda over the bottom of the dishwasher. Then run a full cycle.

My niece is a genius, and she told me about her method for making her own dishwasher detergent. My memory is not the best (understatement), so this is probably a slight variation on what she does. I’ve been very happy with the results. Of course, some dishwashers don’t clean dishes as well as others and will still require scraping and rinsing dishes before loading.

Instructions for homemade dishwasher detergent: fill dishwasher receptacle with baking soda, add two small drops Dawn dishwashing liquid, fill rinse aid container with white vinegar, and then run a full cycle. — image links to free printable pdf

Using white vinegar keeps your dishwasher clean, and it prevents a cloudy buildup on your glasses. Win-win!

Laundry detergent

I have a blogger friend who knows all about this. Her post at this link gives all sorts of tips and recipes for homemade laundry detergent, both powder and liquid. My niece also makes her own detergent. I haven’t tried this yet, but I’m definitely considering it.

I switched to laundry detergent sheets a while back, but I haven’t been very happy with their performance. I’ve tried two different brands. They don’t seem to work well on stains, and they don’t leave clothes smelling fresh. There’s got to be a better way, and maybe making my own detergent is the best way forward.

Use caution with any acidic cleaner on unsealed surfaces. Also, be sure to label everything carefully.

A short list of ingredients is good to keep handy, especially if kids or pets are around.

What do you think?

Why not take the plunge and experiment with these recipes? With a few simple ingredients you probably already keep on hand, you can transform your cleaning routine into a safer, more sustainable practice. Happy cleaning!

Let me know if you try any homemade cleaning products! What has worked for you?

I have since found another post by my blogger friend. She presents simple DIY cleaning products at this link. Check it out if you’d like to learn more, or if you’d like to hear a different perspective.

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Fondly,

Crysti