10 Cleaning Products I Stopped Buying — and What I Use Instead
If your cleaning cabinet is anything like mine, it’s probably overflowing with sprays, powders, and liquids that promise sparkling results. But after years of relying on store-bought products, I discovered that simple, homemade alternatives can do the same job — often for a fraction of the cost and with fewer harsh chemicals. Here are 10 cleaning products I ditched, and the DIY swaps that replaced them:
All-Purpose Cleaner
What I used before: A popular commercial all-purpose spray
DIY swap: Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water, add a few drops of lemon essential oil. Works on counters, glass, and tiles.
Glass Cleaner
What I used before: Store-bought window spray
DIY swap: Equal parts water and white vinegar, sprayed on glass and wiped with a microfiber cloth. Streak-free shine every time.
Dish Soap
What I used before: Commercial dishwashing liquid
DIY swap: Castile soap with a few drops of lemon oil. Gentle on hands and tough on grease.
Bathroom Scrub
What I used before: Abrasive chemical bathroom cleaner
DIY swap: Baking soda paste (baking soda + a little water) works wonders on sinks, tubs, and tiles.
Toilet Cleaner
What I used before: Strong chemical toilet gels
DIY swap: Sprinkle baking soda into the bowl, then spray with vinegar. Let fizz for a few minutes and scrub it clean.
Furniture Polish
What I used before: Commercial furniture sprays
DIY swap: Mix olive oil and a little lemon juice. Buff with a soft cloth for natural shine and conditioning.
Floor Cleaner
What I used before: Synthetic floor solutions
DIY swap: Warm water with a few drops of castile soap. Safe for hardwood, tile, and laminate.
Laundry Detergent
What I used before: Traditional liquid or powder detergent
DIY swap: Mix washing soda, borax, and grated castile soap. Gentle, effective, and eco-friendly.
Carpet Freshener
What I used before: Aerosol carpet powders
DIY swap: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let sit, then vacuum. Optional: add a few drops of essential oil for scent.
Oven Cleaner
What I used before: Strong chemical oven sprays
DIY swap: Make a paste with baking soda and water, coat oven surfaces, let sit overnight, and wipe clean.
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