DIY Non-Toxic Cleaning Products That Work

Many store-bought cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate skin, trigger allergies, and pollute indoor air. Fortunately, you don’t need chemicals to get a sparkling clean home—DIY non-toxic cleaners are just as effective, easy to make, and much cheaper. With a few simple ingredients, you can keep your home fresh, safe, and chemical-free.
The Essential Ingredients for DIY Cleaning
Most non-toxic cleaners use a few basic ingredients that you likely already have:
- White vinegar – A natural disinfectant that cuts through grease, grime, and odors.
- Baking soda – Great for scrubbing, deodorizing, and absorbing odors.
- Castile soap – A plant-based soap that works as a gentle yet effective cleaner.
- Hydrogen peroxide – A mild disinfectant that brightens surfaces and kills germs.
- Essential oils – Naturally antibacterial and add a fresh scent. Tea tree, lemon, and lavender are great options.
- Rubbing alcohol (or vodka) – Evaporates quickly, making it great for glass cleaning and disinfecting.
Now, let’s get into the best DIY non-toxic cleaning recipes for every part of your home.
1. All-Purpose Cleaner (For Counters, Sinks, and More)
This simple, effective cleaner is great for everyday messes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops lemon essential oil (or any favorite scent)
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
- Spray on surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
- Avoid using on granite or marble (vinegar can damage natural stone—see below for a stone-safe option!).
2. Stone & Granite Cleaner (No Vinegar Needed!)
If you have granite or marble countertops, skip the vinegar, which can erode the sealant.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Castile soap
- 5-10 drops lavender or orange essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine in a spray bottle, shake well, and use as needed.
- Wipe with a soft cloth for a streak-free shine.
3. Streak-Free Glass & Mirror Cleaner
Forget chemical-filled glass cleaners—this DIY version works just as well.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup rubbing alcohol (or vodka)
- 1 cup water
- 5 drops peppermint or lemon essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
- Spray on windows or mirrors and wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a streak-free finish.
4. Disinfecting Spray (For Doorknobs, Light Switches, and More)
For high-touch surfaces, this alcohol-based disinfectant is a safer alternative to store-bought sprays.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup rubbing alcohol (at least 70%)
- ¼ cup water
- 10 drops tea tree essential oil (antibacterial & antifungal)
Instructions:
- Combine in a spray bottle, shake, and spray on surfaces.
- Let air dry—no need to wipe!
5. Natural Scrub for Sinks, Tubs & Stovetops
This powerful DIY scrub removes grime without harsh chemicals.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 2 tablespoons Castile soap
- 10 drops tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil
- Water (as needed to make a paste)
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients to form a paste.
- Apply with a sponge, scrub, then rinse clean.
6. DIY Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Skip the chemical-laden toilet cleaners—this one works just as well!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda
- ½ cup white vinegar
- 10 drops tea tree essential oil
Instructions:
- Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Pour in vinegar and let it fizz for a few minutes.
- Scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
7. Carpet & Upholstery Deodorizer
Freshen up carpets and furniture naturally with this easy DIY powder.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 10 drops lavender or eucalyptus essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix and sprinkle lightly over carpets or upholstery.
- Let sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.
8. Floor Cleaner (For Tile, Wood & Laminate)
This natural cleaner makes floors shine without leaving residue.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon warm water
- ½ cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Castile soap
- 10 drops lemon or orange essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix ingredients in a bucket and mop floors as usual.
- For wood floors, use less water to prevent damage.
9. DIY Air Freshener Spray
Forget artificial air fresheners—this natural version smells amazing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol or vodka
- 10-15 drops essential oil (lavender, citrus, or peppermint work great!)
Instructions:
- Mix in a spray bottle and spritz around your home for a fresh scent.
10. Garbage Disposal & Drain Freshener
Eliminate odors from the sink with these easy homemade disposal cleaners.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 cup white vinegar
- Lemon or orange peels (optional)
Instructions:
- Sprinkle baking soda down the drain.
- Pour vinegar over it and let it fizz.
- Rinse with hot water and toss in citrus peels for extra freshness.
Make the Switch to Safer Cleaning
Using DIY non-toxic cleaning products isn’t just better for your health—it’s also better for your wallet and the environment. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create powerful cleaners that keep your home fresh and chemical-free. Once you try these safe, effective, and natural alternatives, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought cleaners!