You can save money and reduce harsh chemicals in your home when you make your own cleaning products. These contain safe yet effective ingredients for tidying your house. The next time you have a cleaning project to tackle, stir up some of these simple DIY cleaning supplies.
Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Make your own hand sanitizer for those times when you or your family members are sick and you don’t want to spread germs around.
Items You Will Need:
- 1 cup of rubbing alcohol (99 percent)
- ¼ cup aloe vera gel (or gel from a spike of your own aloe vera plant)
- 2-6 drops of lemon essential oil
- clean bottle or another small container
Pour all three items into a glass measuring cup or a small bowl. Whisk to thicken slightly and blend the ingredients well. Without touching the mixture, pour it into your clean container and secure the top.
DIY Cleaning Supplies: Glass Cleaner
Streaks and spots can build up on your windows and mirrors. Instead of reaching for a chemical cleaner, make your own glass cleaner with just a few natural supplies.
Items You Will Need:
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar
- 2 cups of filtered or distilled water
- 4-8 drops of lemon, or other essential oil of your choice
- spray bottle
Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake gently to combine, then spray on windows and mirrors. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
DIY Refrigerator Cleaner
Spills often happen in refrigerators, but there are easy, natural ways to get your refrigerator clean with homemade cleaning supplies.
Items You Will Need:
- ½ cup vinegar
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 cup clear ammonia
- 1-gallon hot water
- spray bottle, or sponge and bowl
Add vinegar, baking soda, and ammonia to the hot water. Pour the combination into a spray bottle or bowl. Spray or use a sponge to wipe down the inside of the refrigerator, including all shelves and drawers. No need to rinse. As a natural degreaser, this cleaner helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
DIY Cleaning Supplies for Your Floors
Floors will always get dirty. If they haven’t been cleaned in a while, you may want to first scrub them with a stronger commercial cleanser or steam cleaner. Use this natural homemade cleaner for quick touchups throughout the week.
Items You Will Need:
- 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol
- 1 cup of vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- 4-6 drops of dishwashing liquid
- medium size spray bottle
Combine all ingredients into the spray bottle. Shake gently to combine. Spray sparingly on your floor and mop. Mop until the floor is dry.
Simple Silver Cleaner
Your homemade cleaning supplies can be used for more than just everyday clean-up. Keep silver shiny and bright with this natural cleaner.
Items You Will Need:
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 2 quarts of hot water
- 2-inch strip of aluminum foil
- large plastic dishpan, or gallon-size plastic container
First, pour the hot water into your dishpan. Slowly add in the baking soda. Stir until baking soda fully dissolves. Place the aluminum foil strip inside the mixture. Add your silverware or other small silver items. Let soak for 30 minutes. As the tarnish comes off your silver, it will adhere to the foil. Remove your silver, rinse with fresh water, then dry with a soft cloth.
Homemade cleaning products use inexpensive ingredients and are quick to make. By using everyday ingredients, you can save money and reduce your need for harsh, commercial cleaning products.
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