DIY Cleaning Hacks: Natural Solutions For A Spotless Home

As our awareness of environmental sustainability grows, so does our interest in using natural cleaning alternatives. Maintaining a clean home doesn't have to involve harsh chemicals or expensive products. In every home, simple ingredients like lemon, vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils offer powerful cleaning capabilities without the harsh chemicals found in many commercial products. This guide explores a variety of DIY cleaning hacks that harness the natural cleaning power of these ingredients, providing practical insights for sustainably maintaining a spotless home.

Top 10 Natural Solutions For Cleaning The Home

1. Lemon: Nature's Citrus Wonder

Lemon is a versatile ally in the quest for a clean home. Its natural acidity cuts through grease and grime, making it ideal for cleaning kitchen surfaces, appliances, and even stains on fabrics. Create an all-purpose cleaner by mixing lemon juice with water in a spray bottle. This solution not only cleans effectively but also leaves behind a fresh, citrusy scent. Use lemon halves to scrub cutting boards and deodorise garbage disposals. For laundry, add lemon juice to the wash cycle to brighten whites and remove odours naturally.

2. Vinegar: The Ultimate Multi-Purpose Cleaner

White vinegar is renowned for its cleaning prowess and versatility. It's a natural disinfectant that can kill bacteria and mould effectively. Mix equal parts vinegar and water to create a solution that cleans and disinfects kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces, and glass. Vinegar also acts as a natural fabric softener and deodorizer in the laundry, leaving clothes feeling fresh without chemical residues. It's also great for cleaning windows and mirrors, providing streak-free shine when used with a microfiber cloth.

3. Baking Soda: Gentle Scrubbing Power

Baking soda is a gentle yet effective abrasive that helps tackle tough stains and odours throughout the home. Create a paste with baking soda and water to scrub sinks, tubs, and tile grout. This paste not only cleans but also absorbs odours, making it perfect for freshening up carpets and upholstery. Sprinkle baking soda in trash cans or refrigerators to neutralise odours effectively. It can also be used to clean and polish silverware and stainless steel appliances.

4. Essential Oils: Natural Fragrance And Cleaning Boost

Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus not only add pleasant scents but also boost the cleaning power of homemade solutions. Add a few drops to vinegar-based cleaners to enhance their antibacterial properties. Lavender oil, for example, is calming and ideal for linens and bedroom surfaces. Tea tree oil is a potent antimicrobial agent, perfect for tackling germs in bathrooms and kitchens. Eucalyptus oil is refreshing and helps deter pests while cleaning surfaces effectively.

5. Castile Soap: Gentle And Effective Cleaning

Castile soap, made from vegetable oils, is a gentle yet effective cleaner suitable for various surfaces in your home. It can be diluted with water to create a multipurpose cleaner that cleans floors, countertops, and even delicate items like wool and silk. Castile soap is biodegradable and free from synthetic ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those seeking eco-friendly cleaning alternatives. It's also versatile enough to be used in homemade dishwashing detergent and laundry soap recipes.

6. Hydrogen Peroxide: Powerful Disinfectant

Hydrogen peroxide is a potent disinfectant that can kill bacteria, viruses, and mould spores effectively. Use it to disinfect cutting boards, kitchen sinks, and bathroom surfaces by applying it directly or diluting it with water in a spray bottle. Hydrogen peroxide is also useful for removing stains from fabrics and carpets. Apply it to stains, let it sit for a few minutes, and then blot gently with a clean cloth. It's a non-toxic alternative to bleach and other harsh chemicals.

7. Olive Oil: Natural Wood Polish

Olive oil isn't just for cooking; it's also excellent for polishing and protecting wood surfaces. Mix it with lemon juice for a natural furniture polish that cleans, nourishes, and shines wood furniture without leaving behind residues. This mixture helps prevent the wood from drying out and maintains its natural lustre over time. Use it on wooden floors, tables, and cabinets to keep them looking their best while avoiding synthetic chemicals found in commercial polishes.

8. Cornstarch: Versatile Cleaning Agent

Cornstarch is a versatile cleaner that can be used in various ways around the home. Use it to clean windows and polish furniture by sprinkling it on surfaces and wiping it away with a soft cloth. It absorbs oils and dirt effectively, leaving surfaces clean and refreshed. Cornstarch can also be used to remove grease stains from carpets and upholstery by sprinkling it on the affected area, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up.

9. Tea Bags: Natural Glass Cleaner

Used tea bags can be repurposed as a natural glass cleaner. Steep a few tea bags in hot water, allow the liquid to cool and then transfer it to a spray bottle. Use this solution to clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces for a streak-free shine without the need for chemical-laden cleaners. Tea's natural properties help cut through grime and leave surfaces sparkling clean.

10. Club Soda: Stain Remover Extraordinaire

Club soda is a surprisingly effective stain remover for carpets, upholstery, and clothing. Blot stains with a cloth soaked in club soda, then dab gently until the stain lifts. Club soda's carbonation helps lift stains without leaving behind residues or damaging fabrics, making it a gentle yet powerful option for everyday cleaning challenges.

Top Picks Of Natural Cleaners From Amazon And Myntra

1. VITSZEE White Cleaning Vinegar 1L

Discount: 58% | Price: ₹295 | M.R.P.: ₹699 | Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
VITSZEE White Cleaning Vinegar is an antibacterial cleaner ideal for various surfaces, including glass, stainless steel, and ceramics. This 1-litre bottle is perfect for removing lime scale, deodorising the fridge, and more.

How to Use:

• All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Use it to clean countertops, sinks, and stovetops.
• Glass Cleaner: Spray undiluted vinegar on windows and mirrors, then wipe with a microfiber cloth for streak-free shine.
• Odour Remover: Place a small bowl of vinegar in the fridge to neutralise unpleasant odours.

2. Desire Baking Soda 1 Kg

Discount: 39% | Price: ₹243 | M.R.P.: ₹400 | Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Desire Baking Soda is a versatile product used for baking, cleaning, and deodorising. This 1 kg pack is food-grade quality and perfect for household tasks.

How to Use:

• Surface Scrub: Combine baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Use it to scrub sinks, bathtubs, and tiles.
• Deodorizer: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming to remove odours.
• Drain Cleaner: Pour a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz and sit for 15 minutes before flushing with hot water.

3. ROSEMOORE Lemongrass Aroma Oil Reed Diffuser - 200 Ml

Discount: 10% | Price: ₹1791 | M.R.P.: ₹1990 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
The ROSEMOORE Lemongrass Aroma Oil Reed Diffuser set includes incense sticks, a ceramic oil burner, and an aroma oil bottle. It's perfect for adding a refreshing scent to your home.

How to Use:

• Air Freshener: Add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Shake well and spray around the house.
• Furniture Polish: Mix a few drops of lemon oil with olive oil. Apply to wooden furniture with a soft cloth for a natural polish.
• Toilet Cleaner: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the toilet bowl for an antibacterial clean.

4. Wesol Hydrogen Peroxide 3% Food Grade

Discount: 30% | Price: ₹527.12 | M.R.P.: ₹750 | Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Wesol Hydrogen Peroxide is a food-grade disinfectant that kills 99.9% of germs and viruses. It's ideal for cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorising various surfaces.

How to Use:

• Surface Disinfectant: Spray undiluted hydrogen peroxide on kitchen counters and bathroom surfaces. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.
• Mould Remover: Spray hydrogen peroxide on areas affected by mould and mildew. Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush.
• Laundry Booster: Add a cup of hydrogen peroxide to the washing machine to whiten clothes and eliminate odours.

5. PMW Corn Starch - 1 Kilo

Discount: 29% | Price: ₹249 | M.R.P.: ₹349 | Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars
PMW Corn Starch is a grade A quality food-grade product used for cooking and cleaning. This 1 kg pack is perfect for various household applications.

How to Use:

• Carpet Stain Remover: Sprinkle cornstarch on grease or oil stains on carpets. Let it absorb the oil for 20 minutes before vacuuming.
• Window Cleaner: Mix cornstarch with water and a little vinegar. Use it to clean windows for a streak-free finish.
• Iron Cleaner: Sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch on a cloth and use it to clean the bottom of your iron.

6. SEJ by Nisha Gupta Orange And Blue Printed Wooden Open Dry Bin

Discount: 66% | Price: ₹849 | M.R.P.: ₹2499 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
This beautifully printed wooden dry bin by SEJ by Nisha Gupta is both functional and decorative. It features a floral print and is perfect for keeping your living space neat.

How to Use:

• Dry Bin: Place in any room to collect dry waste like paper, plastic, or small household items.
• Decorative Piece: Use it as a decorative item to enhance the aesthetic of your home.
• Storage: Utilise it to store cleaning supplies or small household items to keep your space organised.

Embracing natural cleaning solutions not only promotes a healthier home environment but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. By incorporating ingredients like lemon, vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils into your cleaning routine, you can effectively clean and disinfect your home without exposing yourself to harsh chemicals. Shop now.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.