We’ve all had the experience of reaching for a bottle of our usual cleaning spray and realizing that we’ve run out. As frustrating as this is, it doesn’t have to put your cleaning plans on hold. These homemade cleaners are easy to make, use ingredients you have on hand, and they avoid all of the potentially harmful chemicals found in store-bought cleaners.

All-Purpose Cleaner

For a spray cleaner that is good for a variety of surfaces throughout the house, whip up a batch of this all-purpose cleaner. This will stay good indefinitely. Give the bottle a good shake before you use it.
You will need…

• one part warm water
• one part white vinegar
• lemon and/or orange rind (optional, for scent)

Combine water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake well before us. If you wish to add the citrus scent, place the rind into the mixture and let sit for one week before removing the rind and using the spray. Do not leave the rind in the mixture much longer than a week or it may spoil and ruin the cleaner.

Deodorizing Spray

A regular surface cleaner might not be able to remove lingering smells, especially in places like bathrooms or refrigerators. Baking soda is the go-to solution.
You will need…

• 4 tablespoons baking soda
• 1-quart warm water

Combine in a spray bottle and use it immediately. To polish metal and stainless steel surfaces, apply baking soda directly and add just enough water to make a thick paste.

Glass Cleaner

Surface cleaner leaves a streaky, cloudy finish on glass and windows so you need a cleaner that is designed for the job. Spray this cleaner directly onto the glass and wide away with a paper towel or lint-free cloth for the best results.
You will need…

• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup isopropyl alcohol, minimum 70%
• optionally, a few drops of your favorite essential oil, for scent

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to combine. The mixture will keep for several months if properly stored.

Floor Cleaner

Floor cleaners for natural floors such as wooden linoleum should be gentle enough to avoid damaging the surface but strong enough to ensure the surface is clean. This cleaner should not be used on stone, brick, or carpeted surfaces.
You will need…

• 1-gallon warm water
• 1/2 cup white vinegar

Combine in a bucket and ensure ingredients are mixed well. Use immediately and discard the remaining mixture when the job is done.