Making my own non toxic cleaner has changed my life. Not only has it saved me so much money, and there is no worry about harsh chemicals. This is super easy to make and it smells so good (and you can change the smell any time you refill it). You could even have different scents for the kitchen versus the bathroom.
You also do not have to worry about kids using it—meaning they can help you clean. Yay for more jobs the kids can do! Plus they love to spray everything. And you do not have to worry about little ones crawling around on floors covered in harsh chemical residue. This is safe for your granite counter tops as well.
Directions to Make Your Own Non Toxic Cleaner
- Get a glass spray bottle
- Fill with 1/4 cup vodka. Vodka helps cut grease, evaporates quickly for a streak-free shine, and is safe for granite countertops. You can get it at your local store. Just get the cheapest.
- Add essential oils
This blend has a clean fresh scent:
- 5 drops Arborvitae oil (known for its antimicrobial properties)
- 15 drops Lemon oil
- 10 drops Lemongrass oil
- 5 drops Coriander oil
If you want a spicy, warm scent then you would like this blend:
- 5 drops Arborvitae oil
- 10 drops Wild Orange oil
- 5 drops Cinnamon oil
- 6 drops Clove oil
- 5 drops Eucalyptus oil
Fill the rest with water and shake before each use. Add more or less of any oils you like to make it a stronger scent. This cleans and freshens the kitchen and bathroom without harsh chemicals.
Check out this Make-a-Switch post on why you want to cut the chemicals in your home where you can.
How to Use Your Non Toxic Cleaner
Shake the bottle well before each use, since oils and water separate. Spray on counters, sinks, stovetops, mirrors, faucets, door handles and toilet seats, then wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. For stuck-on messes, let it sit for a minute or two before wiping. Make a fresh batch every few weeks, and have fun changing up the scent with the seasons. Try citrus in the summer and spice in the fall!
Non Toxic Cleaner Tips and Safety
- Disinfecting: This spray is great for everyday cleaning. For times you truly need to disinfect, like after raw meat or when someone is sick, follow up with 3% hydrogen peroxide or an EPA-registered disinfectant. Never mix hydrogen peroxide and vinegar in the same bottle.
- Kids: Little helpers are great! Teach them to spray away from faces and eyes, and store the bottle up high when you are done. Use a milder blend without cinnamon, clove or eucalyptus if you have babies or toddlers in the home.
- Pets: Some essential oils can bother cats and dogs, so keep the room aired out and wipe surfaces well.
- Granite and marble: Skip vinegar and lemon juice on stone, since acids can etch the surface. This vodka spray is a great choice for stone counters.
- Use glass. Essential oils can break down plastic over time, so a glass spray bottle is best.
Why Make the Switch?
Many conventional cleaners contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrance that linger in the air and on our surfaces. Making your own non toxic cleaner is cheaper, smells amazing, and lets you know exactly what is in it. Learn more on my Make a Switch page and in my DIY non toxic cleaners post.
