Save Money With These 3 Simple Homemade Cleaning Products

Let’s be real: cleaning products can be shockingly expensive. Walk down the household aisle of any supermarket and you’ll see brands like Lysol, Clorox, Mrs. Meyer’s, and Method with price tags that add up fast—especially if you’re keeping a large home clean or running a small business.

But here’s the good news: as a cleaning expert who’s spent over a decade researching what really works (and what doesn’t), I’m here to tell you that you can make effective, affordable, and eco-friendly cleaning products right at home using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, they often work just as well as store-bought brands, without the harsh chemicals or plastic waste.

Here are three simple, science-backed homemade cleaning solutions that save you money without compromising results. I’ll also break down why they work, how to use them, and what not to do—because even DIY cleaning has rules!

1. All-Purpose Citrus Vinegar Spray

Best for: kitchen counters, sinks, bathroom surfaces, stainless steel appliances (with caution)

What you need:

• White vinegar (1 cup)
• Citrus peels (from oranges, lemons, or limes)
• Water (1 cup)
• Spray bottle (preferably glass or BPA-free plastic)

How to make it:

1. Fill a clean jar with citrus peels.
2. Cover with white vinegar.
3. Let it sit in a cool, dark place for 5–7 days.
4. Strain the liquid, dilute with water, and transfer to a spray bottle.

Why it works: Vinegar is a natural acid that breaks down grease, soap scum, and bacteria. The citrus adds natural oils that enhance cleaning power and leave a fresh scent. It’s a natural degreaser and disinfectant combo.

Pro tip: Avoid using vinegar on marble, granite, or other natural stone surfaces—it can erode the sealant over time.

2. Baking Soda Scrub Paste

Best for: stovetops, grout, sinks, bathtubs, oven interiors

What you need:

• Baking soda (1/2 cup)
• Water (3–5 tablespoons)
• Optional: a few drops of essential oil (tea tree or lavender for antibacterial properties)

How to make it:

1. Mix baking soda and water until a thick paste forms.
2. Add essential oil if desired.
3. Apply with a sponge, let sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

Why it works: Baking soda is mildly abrasive, which makes it perfect for lifting grime and stains without scratching surfaces. It also neutralizes odors and pairs beautifully with vinegar for a fizzing deep-clean action.

Pro tip: This paste works wonders inside ovens—just avoid heating until all residue is wiped clean.

3. Homemade Glass & Mirror Spray

Best for: windows, mirrors, chrome fixtures, glass stovetops

What you need:

• Rubbing alcohol (1/4 cup)
• White vinegar (1/4 cup)
• Water (1/2 cup)
• Spray bottle

How to make it:

1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well before each use.
3. Spray on surface and wipe with a microfiber cloth for streak-free shine.

Why it works: Alcohol evaporates quickly, preventing streaks, while vinegar cuts through smudges and fingerprints. This recipe rivals popular glass cleaners like Windex without ammonia fumes.

Pro tip: Always use a lint-free microfiber cloth to avoid leaving behind fuzz or smears.

Bonus: Ingredient Breakdown & Cost Comparison

Let’s put money where the mop is. Here’s a cost comparison of DIY vs store-bought (approximate):

And the best part? No artificial fragrances, fewer plastic bottles, and you control exactly what goes on your surfaces.

Homemade cleaners aren’t just a budget win—they’re also safer, greener, and highly customizable. I’m not saying you need to throw out every store-bought product (trust me, I still keep Clorox ToiletWand refills on hand), but incorporating a few DIY staples can cut your cleaning bill in half.

Plus, they’re kind of fun to make. Who knew your leftover lemon rinds could turn into a powerful grease-fighting spray?

Ready to ditch the overpriced bottles? Start with one recipe above, test it for a week, and let your results do the talking.

Stay fresh.