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My zero-waste cleaning efforts began in 2019. I gave homemade cleaners a shot with stuff like vinegar, baking soda, & essential oils.
Over time, I changed my cleaning routine so almost everything I use is now zero-waste and natural.
I even passed samples to family & friends, showing them how easy it is to switch! Feels great seeing the good effects these changes have had on our health and the Earth.
Why Make the Switch to ZeroWaste Cleaning Products?
When we choose natural, DIY cleaning products, it plays a big role in cutting down waste. Plus, we stay away from those nasty chemicals that mess up our water and hurt wildlife.
Ever looked at the label on a store-bought cleaner? These regular cleaners often pack harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin & lungs.
Picking natural options means you’re making a healthier place for yourself and your loved ones.
In this post, I wanna share some helpful tips on how to dive into zero-waste cleaning with easy-peasy DIY recipes.
Essential Ingredients for Natural DIY Cleaning Products
Let’s talk about what you’ll need:
White Vinegar: This handy ingredient acts as a natural disinfectant that kicks grime and soap scum to the curb. Just be careful with sensitive surfaces like marble or wood.
Baking Soda: Super for deodorizing and tackling stains, baking soda scrubs away tough messes without scratching anything.
Castile Soap: A plant-based soap that’s non-toxic! You can use it for all kinds of cleaning chores from dishes to floors.
Essential Oils: They smell great! Plus oils like tea tree and lemon have natural antibacterial powers.
Distilled Water: Perfect for making glass cleaners since it helps stop streaks.
Lemon Juice: Gives that fresh scent & works like magic for bleaching.
These ingredients are really key when it comes to zero-waste cleaning. At first, I was kinda doubtful.
Could these simple things actually clean well? But trust me—after trying them, you’ll start asking yourself why you ever thought you needed those harsh chemicals!
Also Read:-> Tips to Reduce Plastic Usage in Daily Life
Best Zero Waste Cleaning Product Recipes
Ready to experiment? Here are my tried-and-tested recipes:
All-purpose cleaner: To prepare this, just mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a nice scent—Rosemary sprigs work too (if you want)!
Glass cleaner: Mix 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, & 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol. Your natural Glass cleaner is ready!
Toilet bowl cleaner: To prepare this sprinkle some baking soda in the bowl, add a splash of vinegar, and watch it fizz.
Laundry detergent: Combine 1 cup grated castile soap, 1 cup washing soda, & 1 cup borax. Use about 1-2 tablespoons per load.
Air freshener: Fill up a spray bottle with water & toss in 15-20 drops of essential oil. Say goodbye to fake fragrances!
Floor cleaner: For super clean floors, mix 1/2 cup white vinegar with a gallon of warm water. For tougher spots, just add a few drops of liquid castile soap. This stuff really shines on hardwood, tile, and laminate!
I’ve shared these recipes with folks here in New Jersey, & the response has been fantastic! Some of my friends & family who were once doubtful are now all in on the zero waste cleaning lifestyle!
Also Read:-> Zero Waste Grocery Shopping Tips
Zero Waste Cleaning Tools and Accessories
Now onto tools—get rid of those single-use wipes & plastic scrub brushes! Instead, go for:
- Reusable spray bottles (glass or metal)
- Microfiber cloths & washable rags
- Compostable scrub brushes & sponges
- DIY cleaning wipes made from old t-shirts or clothes
Just remember—aiming to reduce waste at every step is key! Get creative along the way! Those old socks? Perfect for dusting! That beat-up t-shirt? Cut it into rags!
Also Read:-> Zero Waste Kitchen: How to reduce waste in the Kitchen?
Tips for Transitioning to a Zero Waste Cleaning Routine
Here’s how to gently slide into your new zero waste cleaning routine:
1. Start small: Switch out one product at a time—I kicked off with an all-purpose cleaner and grew from there.
2. Label everything: Seriously—you don’t wanna mix up your toilet cleaner with your countertop spray!
3. Get everyone involved: Make it fun! My kids love helping mix things (with some grown-ups watching).
4. Be Patient: Some natural cleaners might need a bit more scrubbing but the results are so worth it.
5. Share the love: Hand out samples to friends & family—they might decide to jump on board!
I really encourage you to give these recipes a try & see what happens! More and more people around the world are waking up to the impact of their cleaning habits on the environment.
By switching to natural DIY cleaning products, we can tidy up our homes while also giving Mother Earth a helping hand!
