Keeping your home fresh and clean doesn’t have to mean buying dozens of expensive, chemical-filled cleaners. In fact, some of the most effective cleaning products are already in your pantry. At College Station Cleaning Services, we believe in cleaning with integrity—and that includes using eco-friendly, family-safe methods wherever possible.
In this guide, we’re sharing 15 simple, homemade cleaning solutions you can create with everyday ingredients. These recipes are not only budget-friendly and effective, they’re also better for your family, your pets, and the planet. Let’s clean smarter—together.
Key Takeaways
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DIY solutions are safe, effective, and affordable
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You probably have the ingredients already
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Pair homemade care with professional help for a truly clean home
Why DIY Cleaning Solutions?
If you’ve ever flipped over a commercial cleaner and struggled to pronounce even half of the ingredients, you’re not alone. Many store-bought products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate skin, lungs, and allergies—especially in homes with kids or pets.
DIY cleaning products solve this with:
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Fewer chemicals
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Lower costs
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Less waste (no plastic bottles to toss)
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More control over what you bring into your home
At College Station Cleaning Services, we prioritize eco-conscious practices, and we love sharing knowledge with homeowners who care about what touches their countertops, floors, and air.
Tools & Ingredients to Keep on Hand
Here’s a basic starter kit for mixing up your own cleaning arsenal.
Core Ingredients
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White vinegar
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Baking soda
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Lemon juice
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Castile soap
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Hydrogen peroxide
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Rubbing alcohol
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Essential oils (lemon, lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus)
Helpful Tools
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Glass spray bottles
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Microfiber cloths
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Measuring spoons and cups
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Funnel
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Old toothbrush
15 DIY House Cleaning Solutions
Each solution includes ingredients, instructions, and a pro tip from the team.
1. All-Purpose Surface Spray
Ingredients:
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1 cup white vinegar
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1 cup water
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10 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions: Mix in spray bottle. Use on counters, walls, or tile.
Pro Tip: Avoid on granite or marble—it can dull the stone.
2. Glass and Mirror Cleaner
Ingredients:
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1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
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1/4 cup white vinegar
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1 tbsp cornstarch
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2 cups water
Instructions: Shake well before use. Wipe with microfiber cloth.
Pro Tip: Clean windows on a cloudy day to avoid streaks.
3. Grease-Cutting Kitchen Cleaner
Ingredients:
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1/2 tsp castile soap
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2 cups warm water
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10 drops orange essential oil
Instructions: Spray on stovetops, backsplashes, and cabinets.
Pro Tip: Let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Bathroom Mold & Mildew Buster
Ingredients:
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1 cup hydrogen peroxide
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1 cup water
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10 drops tea tree oil
Instructions: Spray directly on moldy areas and leave for 10 minutes.
Pro Tip: Use regularly on shower grout to prevent build-up.
5. Natural Toilet Bowl Scrub
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup baking soda
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1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions: Sprinkle baking soda, then vinegar. Scrub.
Pro Tip: Let sit overnight for stubborn stains.
6. Fresh-Scented Floor Cleaner
Ingredients:
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1 gallon warm water
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1/4 cup white vinegar
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5 drops peppermint or eucalyptus oil
Instructions: Mop as usual.
Pro Tip: Avoid on hardwood—vinegar can damage it.
7. Gentle Wood Polish
Ingredients:
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1/4 cup white vinegar
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10 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions: Apply with cloth and buff dry.
Pro Tip: Spot test on wood first.
8. DIY Disinfecting Wipes
Ingredients:
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Old cloths
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1/2 cup rubbing alcohol
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1/2 cup water
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1 tbsp dish soap
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10 drops tea tree oil
Instructions: Soak cloths in solution in a jar.
Pro Tip: Wash and refresh weekly.
9. Natural Carpet Deodorizer
Ingredients:
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1 cup baking soda
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10 drops lavender or eucalyptus oil
Instructions: Sprinkle, sit 15 minutes, vacuum.
Pro Tip: Great before guests arrive!
10. Grout Cleaner Paste
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup baking soda
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1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
Instructions: Apply paste, scrub with brush, rinse.
Pro Tip: Use gloves if skin is sensitive.
11. Microwave Steam Cleaner
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup water
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1/2 cup vinegar
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1 lemon slice
Instructions: Microwave 5 min. Wipe clean.
Pro Tip: Add vanilla for a fresh scent.
12. Stainless Steel Polish
Ingredients:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp white vinegar
Instructions: Rub oil, then wipe with vinegar cloth.
Pro Tip: Follow the grain to avoid streaks.
13. Pet-Safe Odor Neutralizer
Ingredients:
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1 cup water
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1/2 cup white vinegar
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1 tsp baking soda
Instructions: Spray on affected areas.
Pro Tip: Spot test before using on fabric.
14. Garbage Disposal Refresher Tabs
Ingredients:
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1 cup baking soda
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1/2 cup salt
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1/2 cup lemon juice
Instructions: Form paste balls, dry overnight. Use 1–2 weekly.
Pro Tip: Run cold water while using.
15. Air Freshener Spray
Ingredients:
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1 cup water
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2 tbsp rubbing alcohol
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15 drops essential oil
Instructions: Shake and spray into air.
Pro Tip: Avoid spraying on wood or upholstery.
Safety Tips When Using DIY Cleaners
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Label all bottles clearly
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Avoid mixing vinegar + bleach
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Test surfaces first
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Store safely away from kids and pets
When DIY Isn’t Enough
Homemade cleaners are perfect for everyday care—but sometimes your home needs a deeper touch.
That’s where College Station Cleaning Services steps in. We bring:
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Eco-friendly products
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Deep cleaning expertise
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Reliable, satisfaction-guaranteed service
Whether it’s a move-out clean or a seasonal reset, we’re here to help.
FAQs
1. Are DIY cleaners as effective as store-bought?
They work well for everyday cleaning but might not sanitize as deeply as commercial products.
2. Can I use vinegar on stone countertops?
No—vinegar can etch granite or marble. Use stone-safe products instead.
3. How long do homemade cleaners last?
Most are best used within 1–2 weeks. Store in cool, dark places.
4. Are essential oils safe around pets?
Some are. Always research or consult your vet—avoid tea tree around cats.
5. Can I use rubbing alcohol in place of vinegar?
In some cases, yes—but check recipes first to avoid improper mixing.
6. Do I need to wear gloves?
It’s a good idea when using hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, or baking soda.
7. Can I clean wood with vinegar?
Vinegar is safe for sealed wood when diluted—always spot test first.
8. Is baking soda safe on all surfaces?
Avoid on delicate materials like aluminum or glass cooktops—it can scratch.
9. How can I make these cleaners smell better?
Add a few drops of essential oils to customize your scent.
10. What’s the best way to organize my homemade cleaners?
Use labeled spray bottles and store them in a cool, dry cabinet.
About the Author: Rebekah McElhone
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