Did you know that the average household spends hundreds of dollars a year on store-bought cleaning products? Not only are these products often loaded with harmful chemicals, but they can also take a big bite out of your budget. The good news? You can create your own effective, natural cleaning solutions at a fraction of the cost—using just a few basic ingredients and essential oils.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to save money while keeping your home sparkling clean and toxin-free.

1. MULTIPURPOSE CLEANER

One of the easiest ways to cut costs is by ditching the store-bought all-purpose cleaner. Instead, mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oil (like lemon or tea tree) in a spray bottle. This DIY cleaner works on most surfaces and costs just pennies to make.

2. Homemade Glass Cleaner

Forget pricey glass cleaners—make your own with just a few ingredients. Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 3-4 drops of essential oil (like lavender or peppermint). It’s streak-free and budget-friendly.

3. DIY Floor Cleaner

Store-bought floor cleaners can add up quickly. Create your own by mixing 1 gallon of hot water, ½ cup of white vinegar, and 10-20 drops of an essential oil (like eucalyptus for its fresh scent). This works well on tile, laminate, and vinyl floors.

4. Natural Disinfectant Spray

For a natural disinfectant, combine 1 cup of water, ½ cup of white vinegar, and 20 drops of tea tree oil. This spray is great for sanitizing countertops, doorknobs, and other high-touch areas without the harsh chemicals found in commercial products.

5. Soft SCRUB

Skip the expensive scouring powders and make your own. Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 10-15 drops of an essential oil like lemon or eucalyptus, and 2 tbsp On Guard Cleaner Concentrate. Mix to a paste, you may need to add some water to get a toothpaste like consistency. This works wonders on sinks, tubs, and stovetops, giving you a powerful scrub at a fraction of the cost.

6. Fabric Freshener Spray

Why spend money on fabric fresheners when you can make your own? Mix 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil in a spray bottle. It’s perfect for freshening up upholstery, curtains, and linens.

7. Carpet DeodoriSer

For a natural carpet deodoriser, mix 1 cup of baking soda with 20-30 drops of an essential oil - my faves are Purify, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus or Lemon. Sprinkle it on your carpets, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuum. It’s a low-cost way to keep your home smelling fresh.

8. Homemade Laundry Detergent

Laundry detergents can be one of the biggest expenses in your cleaning routine. Make your own by combining 1 cup of washing soda, 1 cup of borax, and 1 bar of grated castile soap. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a fresh scent. This DIY detergent is safe, effective, and much cheaper than store-bought alternatives.

9. Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Keep your toilet bowl clean and fresh without the chemicals. Mix ½ cup of baking soda, 10 drops of tea tree oil, and ¼ cup of white vinegar. Pour it into the bowl, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and flush.

10. DIY Wood Polish

Commercial wood polishes can be expensive and often contain harmful chemicals. Make your own by mixing ½ cup of olive oil with ¼ cup of white vinegar and 10 drops of lemon essential oil. Apply it to wooden surfaces for a natural, budget-friendly shine.

Making your own cleaning products not only saves money but also helps create a healthier home environment. With just a few basic ingredients and essential oils, you can tackle all your cleaning tasks naturally and affordably. Ready to give it a try? Start with one or two of these recipes and see the difference it makes—not just in your wallet, but in the quality of your home life.

If you’re interested in more tips on creating a low-toxin, budget-friendly home, join our community at The Balanced Space!

10 Ways to Save Money by Making Your Own Cleaning Products