If you’re trying to create a more natural home, the hardest part isn’t figuring out what to change – it’s figuring out where to start and what to buy.
Use this guide to shortcut hours of research and shopping for cleaning ingredients online.
You don’t need to replace everything. You need a basic “system” that you can use for everyday cleaning.
Below are four DIY mixes I use for every day cleaning…a great place to start.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase ingredients through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
A Note of Caution Before You Start:
Natural/DIY cleaners work well—but just like store bought products, they need to be used correctly.
Test first on a hidden spot when you’re unsure
Don’t let cleaners sit longer than directed
Don’t let acidic cleaners (like vinegar) dry on fixtures
When in doubt: start with mild soap + water
Related: Creating a More Natural, Low‑Toxin Home – A Beginner’s Guide
#1-Homegrown Basics Surface Cleaner
Uses
Counters
Tables
Daily wipe-downs (kitchen + bathroom)
Ingredients: Mix / Strength
2 cups water
1 teaspoon dish soap
How to Use
Mix in a spray bottle
Lightly mist surface
Wipe with a microfiber cloth (or damp cloth)
Buff dry with a clean cloth
Use With Care
Too much soap = film → wipe again with clean water if needed
#2-Homegrown Basics Kitchen: for greasy cabinets + stove areas
Uses
Stove top, hood exterior
Greasy cabinet doors
Sticky fingerprints on appliances
Ingredients: Mix / Strength
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon dish soap
How to Use
Apply using a spray bottle or damp cloth
Let sit 1–3 minutes
Wipe clean
Follow with a clean damp cloth (water only)
Dry
Use With Care
Don’t let it air-dry (it can leave residue)
#3-Homegrown Basics Scrub (for stuck-on grime)
Uses
Sinks
Tubs
Stuck-on buildup (light)
Ingredients: Mix / Strength
2–3 tablespoons baking soda
Add water slowly until it forms a spreadable paste
How to Use
Apply paste with a damp sponge or cloth
Gently scrub
Rinse thoroughly
Dry
Use With Care
Baking soda is mildly abrasive—use gentle pressure, especially on shiny finishes
#4-Homegrown Basics Mineral Clean (Used Carefully)
Uses
Hard water spots
Glass (shower doors, mirrors)
Light soap scum
Ingredients: Mix / Strength
Routine cleaning: 1 cup white vinegar + 1 cup water
Stubborn buildup: undiluted white vinegar (short use only)
How to Use
Apply using a spray bottle or cloth
Let sit 5–10 minutes max
Wipe clean
Rinse with clean water (wipe with a damp cloth)
Dry thoroughly (especially on fixtures)
Avoid Using On
Natural stone
Unsealed/damaged grout
Worn or delicate fixture finishes
Use With Care
The key is short contact + rinse + dry
Don’t soak fixtures or let vinegar dry on them
Optional Add- Ins:
The simple versions above work well on their own. If you want to customize later, here are a few optional add-ins to try:
Lemon juice: 1–2 tablespoons per quart for a fresher scent
Castile soap: 1–2 teaspoons per quart as a plant-based soap option
Washing soda: 1–2 teaspoons per quart for tougher grease (wear gloves)
Essential oils: 5–10 drops per quart for scent only (optional; use extra caution in pet households)
Where to Go Next:
Natural Laundry Basics
Minimizing Plastics in your Kitchen
Creating a More Natural, Low‑Toxin Home – A Beginner’s Guide