Five ‘powerful’ but natural cleaning agents you can make with cupboard essentials

There are many household items which can be mixed together to create an eco-friendly spray, according to an expert.

Melissa Caverly, founder of Imagine Maids, has shared her recipes for five natural products you can easily create.

1. Glass cleaner

To make an effective glass cleaner, mix one part water with one part rubbing alcohol and a tablespoon of white vinegar in a spray bottle, shaking well to mix.

Melissa noted: “This homemade glass cleaner provides streak-free shine on windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces.

“Rubbing alcohol and vinegar effectively cut through grease and grime, leaving surfaces sparkling.”

2. Degreaser and disinfectant

To make a degreaser and disinfectant, fill a jar with citrus peels and cover them with white vinegar.

Let it sit for a few weeks in a cool, dark place to infuse and then strain the liquid before transferring it to a spray bottle.

The citrus-infused vinegar solution serves as a “powerful degreaser and disinfectant”. The pro said: “The natural acids in citrus fruits offer a powerful boost to disinfection, making them invaluable allies in your journey to a cleaner, healthier home.”

3. All-purpose cleaner

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, adding some essential oil for a pleasant scent if desired. 

This will help to tackle dirt and grime on various surfaces around the home including countertops, sinks and floors.

Vinegar’s acidic properties help to disinfect whilst water dilutes it for safe and effective cleaning.

4. Wood polish

The expert explained: “Mix two parts olive oil and one part lemon juice in a bowl. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture and apply it to wooden surfaces, rubbing it gently in circular motions. 

“Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then buff the wood with a clean, dry cloth to bring out its natural shine.

“Adding lemon juice to olive oil as a wood polish not only amplifies its cleaning power but also imparts a pleasant citrus aroma, leaving your furniture refreshed and rejuvenated.”

This homemade wood polish will help to clean wooden surfaces as well as restore their natural shine.

5. Stain remover

Mix two parts baking soda and one part water to form a paste with a thick consistency. Apply the paste to stained fabrics and scrub gently using a sponge or cloth, rinsing thoroughly with water.

The expert continued: “This baking soda scrub is an effective stain remover for fabrics, lifting and absorbing stains such as food spills, grease marks, and sweat stains. 

“Baking soda helps to break down stains while also deodorising fabrics, leaving them fresh and clean.”