Clean and Green Homemade Cleaners

DIY green cleaners are not recommended for disinfecting against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection

Homemade cleaners are a great alternative to store-bought chemicals. They are less likely to cause harm or irritation, they are environmentally friendly, easy to make, and you know what is in them! You can also control the strength of the cleaners as you control the ingredients.

Though can find “green” cleaning products in the store, they may still contain harsh irritants. Check out our simple and affordable green cleaning recipes below!

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner Recipe

• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 12-20 drops essential oil
• 1 tsp castile or phosphorous-free dish soap or washing soda
• 2 cups boiled or distilled water

1. Fill cleaning spray bottle with 2-4 cups (see below for variations on this recipe based on strength desired) distilled or boiled (cooled) water.
2. Add all other ingredients. Shake well.

What should I know before getting started?

1. Though green cleaners are gentler on us and the earth, they should not be consumed.
2. Microfiber towels can save a lot of time with simple tasks like dusting.
3. Hot water will clean much better than cold water.
4. Always start with as mild a cleaner as you can. If it doesn’t work even after applying some elbow grease and letting it sit, try a stronger cleaner.
5. Know the different types of cleaners because that will help you make a cleaner.

What are the different types of cleaners used for?

Base/Alkali

• Good for removing dirt, fat, and grease.
• Conventional Cleaner: all purpose cleaner, oven cleaner
• Alternatives: Baking soda (mild), Borax (moderate), Washing soda (strong)

Acids

• Breaks things down like rust, mineral deposits, hard water stains. Good for glass, windows, brass, copper, tiles, and mold.
• Conventional Cleaner: toilet bowl cleaner, tub and tile cleaner, mold solutions
• Alternatives: vinegar, lemon juice

Detergents

• Good for removing dirt, fat, and grease.
• Conventional Cleaners: laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, cleansers
• Alternatives: washing soda/borax, soap nuts/granules, vegetable coconut oils

Abrasives

• Aka “Cleansers.” Wears off dirt by rubbing. Found in powders & scouring pads. Can scratch surfaces.
• Conventional Cleaners: scouring pads, steel wool
• Alternatives: baking soda or salt, borax/washing soda, mesh pads

Bleach and Sanitizers

•  Whitens. Removes stains. Disinfects or reduces numbers of bacteria. “Sanitizers.” Helps areas smell better.
• Conventional Cleaners: most common household product is chlorine bleach.
• Alternatives: sunlight/citrus, hydrogen peroxide, borax or vinegar, tea tree and lavender oils

Air Fresheners

•  Helps the air smell better
• Conventional Cleaners: plug-ins and sprays
• Alternatives: open windows, essential oils, lemon or lime juice, simmer spices on stove, baking soda

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