DIY natural kitchen cleaner recipes you can make at home

DIY Natural Kitchen Cleaner Recipes

Keeping your kitchen clean doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Here, we explore easy-to-make DIY natural kitchen cleaner recipes using common household ingredients. These cleaners are effective, eco-friendly, and safe for your family.

1. All-Purpose Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 10-15 drops of essential oil (e.g., lemon or tea tree)

Instructions:

1. In a spray bottle, combine the vinegar and water.
2. Add essential oil for fragrance and additional antibacterial properties.
3. Shake gently to mix and use on countertops, stovetops, and other surfaces.

Usage Tips: Vinegar may not be suitable for stone surfaces like granite or marble, so check compatibility.

2. Baking Soda Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup liquid Castile soap
• 10 drops essential oil (e.g., lavender for a calming scent)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the baking soda and Castile soap into a paste.
2. Add essential oil and mix well.
3. Store in an airtight container.

Usage Tips: Apply the scrub to tough stains in sinks, on baking sheets, or inside the oven using a sponge. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing.

3. Citrus Infused Cleaner

Ingredients:

• Peels from 2-3 citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, etc.)
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Place citrus peels in a glass jar.
2. Pour vinegar over the peels and seal tightly. Let it sit for 1-2 weeks.
3. Strain the mixture into a spray bottle, diluting with water.

Usage Tips: This cleaner not only smells refreshing but also effectively cuts through grease and grime.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
• 1 cup water
• 5 drops essential oil (e.g., eucalyptus)

Instructions:

1. Combine hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle.
2. Add essential oil, shake gently, and use on surfaces needing disinfecting.

Usage Tips: Great for cutting boards and kitchen surfaces, but do not mix with vinegar as it can release harmful gases.

5. Stovetop Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon dish soap

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl to form a paste.
2. Apply directly to stubborn stains on the stovetop.
3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth after 15 minutes.

Usage Tips: This paste is perfect for baked-on stains. Use a non-abrasive sponge for scrubbing to protect the surface.

6. Glass Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra cleaning power)

Instructions:

1. Combine vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Add cornstarch if desired and shake well.
3. Spray onto glass surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth.

Usage Tips: For a streak-free finish, clean your glass surfaces on a cloudy day to prevent the sun from drying the cleaner too quickly.

7. Disinfecting Wipes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 roll of paper towels (cut in half)
• 1 container with a tight-fitting lid

Instructions:

1. Mix vinegar and water in a bowl.
2. Place the paper towels in the container and pour the mixture over them, soaking thoroughly.
3. Pull wipes from the center of the roll when needed.

Usage Tips: Use these wipes to quickly sanitize surfaces. Keep away from porous materials and test on a small area first.

8. Grease-Busting Spray

Ingredients:

• 1 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a spray bottle, mix vinegar and water.
2. Add baking soda slowly to prevent fizzing, then shake gently.
3. Use this mixture on greasy surfaces or appliances.

Usage Tips: Ideal for kitchen hoods and greasy stove surfaces. Allow it to sit for a few minutes for tougher stains.

9. Mold and Mildew Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
• 10 drops of tea tree oil (antifungal properties)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.
2. Shake to mix well before using.
3. Spray on areas with mold or mildew, let sit for 10 minutes, then wipe clean.

Usage Tips: Suitable for areas prone to moisture like sinks and refrigerators. Ensure good ventilation when using.

10. Natural Dishwasher Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 cup white vinegar

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Pour white vinegar into the detergent compartment.
3. Run a hot water cycle without dishes.

Usage Tips: This helps to remove odors and buildup inside the dishwasher, promoting better cleaning performance.

Final Notes

Using these DIY natural kitchen cleaner recipes allows you to maintain a clean kitchen while avoiding chemicals. Each recipe utilizes natural ingredients that you can easily find at home, making it both convenient and sustainable. Be sure to label your homemade cleaners and store them in a cool, dry place to extend their shelf life. Experimenting with essential oils can also customize scents according to your preferences. Happy cleaning!