Get ready for some serious savings with these simple DIY Homemade Cleaners Recipes and Tips!
On the hunt for some Homemade Cleaners Recipes and DIY Homemade Cleaning Solutions?? Get ready to load up on some serious inspiration.
Not only are these recipes a more natural version of your store-bought favorites, they’ll also save loads of money! Are you ready for some ridiculously easy ways to swap out your old cleaners with new homemade versions? Let’s get started!
Homemade Cleaners
Related: Get Free Walmart Gift Cards for frugal homemade cleaner supplies!
How to Speed Clean Your Home:
Homemade Hand Cleaner Recipes + Tips:
How to Clean Your Diamond Ring at Home! {Trick to Make it Sparkle}
You won’t believe how gorgeous your ring will look after you try this easy trick for How to Clean Your Diamond Ring at Home!
DIY Foaming Hand Soap Recipe
This foaming hand soap is used at every sink in my home. This trick will save you so much money, and make your soap last SO much longer!
DIY Hand Sanitizer Recipe
Make sure you know exactly what you’re putting on your hands when you use this DIY Hand Sanitizer Recipe instead of those store bought hand sanitizers! It’s so easy to make, and you’ll love having some on hand!
How To Make Hand Sanitizer Spray
This spray is a convenient alternative to regular hand sanitizers, plus you’ll love how simple and easy it is to make!
DIY Sanitizing Wipes
Save money when you make these easy DIY Sanitizing Wipes at home!
Homemade Laundry Cleaner Recipes + Tips:
DIY Wool Dryer Balls
I love my wool dryer balls. I can’t even imagine doing laundry without them!
Homemade Fabric Softener Recipe
You won’t believe how much money you can save by simply making your own fabric softener at home. Plus, I love how well this fabric softener works on my clothes!
Homemade Liquid Laundry Detergent Recipe
One of the very easiest ways to save money on laundry is to use this homemade liquid laundry detergent. I have been personally using this recipe for almost 10 years!
Homemade Laundry Detergent Powder
Slash the price of your laundry detergent when you make this Homemade Laundry Detergent Powder Recipe at home!
DIY Wrinkle Release Recipe
Cut your laundry bill fast when you make your own homemade wrinkle release!
How to Keep your Washing Machine Smelling Fresh
Keep the odors away with this easy Smelly Washing Machine Fix!
8 Benefits of Drying Clothes Outside
Many people don’t realize the Benefits of Drying Clothes Outside!
Laundry Drying Rod Trick for Small Spaces
I’ve got ‘Small House Syndrome’, so here’s a simple solution for a Laundry Drying Rod for Small Spaces!
30+ Laundry Money Saving Tips
Save BIG around the house with these easy Laundry Money Saving Tips!
Homemade Cleaners for Bathroom:
Homemade Toilet Bowl Cleaner Recipe
This is the exact all natural DIY toilet bowl cleaner I use every week, and it works like a charm!
Homemade 409 Cleaner Recipe
I love knowing exactly what is going into the cleaners I use in my home, don’t you? This copycat 409 cleans so good, and takes just a few simple ingredients!
Homemade Glass Cleaner Recipe
I’ve personally been using this glass cleaner for years!
How To Make Foaming Shampoo
Whether you’re looking for a tear-free shampoo for your kids, or would like to make your own favorite shampoo last longer, you’re going to love this simple DIY hack!
Homemade Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair or Blondes
If you want to make your own natural Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair or Blondes, I’ve got some seriously easy recipes for you! No crazy chemicals, just products you can feel good about.
DIY Foaming Body Wash
Are you ready for another simple way to save money? Turn your favorite body wash into a Foaming Body Wash! It’s so luxurious in the bath or shower, and will last SO much longer!
How to Clean Makeup Sponges & Beauty Blenders
Whether you’re wondering how to clean a Beauty Blender, your favorite Beauty Blender dupe, or your old faithful sponge that’s never let you down, you won’t believe how clean they’ll get with these easy little hacks!
How to Clean your Hair Brush
When was the last time you actually cleaned your brush? I know, right? This simple tip will have your brush looking brand new!
How to Clean Your Curling Iron
Is your curling iron, wand or flat iron loaded with buildup? Check out this simple trick for How To Clean Your Curling Iron!
How to Remove Soap Scum from Shower Doors
How to Prevent Water Spots on Shower Doors
Learn How to Fix a Hard-to-Turn Faucet
Is your bathroom faucet hard to turn? Before you call a plumber, try this trick from a Handyman!
How To Remove Hard Water Spots
If you have hard water, then you need to try this easy tip for How to Remove Hard Water Spots!
Homemade Kitchen Cleaner Recipes + Tips:
How To Make Foaming Dish Soap
This foaming dish soap hack is seriously one of the easiest ways to save money on dish soap!
Homemade Granite Cleaner Recipe
Save money on that overpriced store-bought granite cleaner when you use this frugal Homemade Granite Cleaner instead!
Fruit and Veggie Wash
This simple trick will help you get those fruits and veggies squeaky clean! I do this to ALL of the produce I bring home from the grocery store.
Easy Drain Cleaner Trick
Is your kitchen sink backing up? We’ve had some monster clogs at your home, but this drain cleaner works like a charm!
How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Smelling Fresh
Need a simple trick for How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Smelling Fresh? Check out these creative tips…
How to Clean Grout on Tile Floors
It can cost hundreds to get your grout cleaned professionally, so save big and do it yourself for just a couple of dollars!
How to Clean your Kitchen Sponge
You’ll love this easy kitchen tip that will help you save time and help your sponges last longer!
How to Clean Your Coffee Maker
Keep your coffee maker brewing delicious coffee with this easy hack for How to Clean Your Coffee Maker With Vinegar!
How to Clean Your Keurig
Has it been awhile since you cleaned your Keurig? Check out this simple trick for How to Clean Your Keurig Coffee Maker!
How to Clean your Dishwasher
Even though your dishwasher is used for cleaning… it has a way of building up residue from dish soap, grime, and developing streaks on the interior door.
Easy Microwave Cleaning Hack
Keep your microwave as clean as possible with these easy tips and tricks.
Best Way to Clean a Blender
Cleaning your blender is about to get a whole lot easier with this easy tip!
31 Easy Ways to Clean Pots and Pans
Make cleaning your pots and pans easier when you use these easy ways to clean pots and pans!
Homemade Air Fresheners:
DIY Cinnamon Air Freshener
I love this cinnamon air freshener. It’s the perfect way to make your home smell like Christmas!
Lemon Stovetop Potpourri Recipe {with Rosemary & Vanilla}
This beautiful Lemon Rosemary Vanilla Stove Top Potpourri is such a cheerful Springtime or Summer scent!
DIY Carpet Powder Freshener
We love using this DIY carpet powder on the carpets, what an effective and frugal way to make carpets smell fresh!
Lavender Baking Soda Air Freshener
Make your rooms smell great in a hurry with this easy Lavender Baking Soda Air Freshener!
DIY Jasmine Air Freshener Spray
Make your home smell absolutely lovely with this fun Jasmine DIY Essential Oil Air Freshener Spray!
25 DIY Home Air Fresheners {Tips & Tricks}
If you want to make your own homemade air freshener, here are 20+ different ways you can try!
Easy DIY Homemade Febreze
Sometimes the simplest tricks save you the most money!
Homemade Baby Cleanser Recipes + Tips:
Easy DIY Homemade Foaming Baby Wash
You won’t believe how much money you’ll save on baby wash with this simple little trick! Bath time has never been so fun and frugal!
How to Make Homemade Baby Wipes
Today I want to share with you some genius tips for how to make homemade baby wipes!
50 Creative Ways to Use Baby Wipes
Baby wipes to the rescue!! Today I want to show you some fun non ‘traditional’ uses for baby wipes!
DIY T Shirt Rags
Need some more rags? Old t shirts actually make AMAZING rags! Simply cut them down in large squares and use them when wiping up spills, dusting furniture, etc…
Homemade Pet Cleaner Recipes + Tips:
Homemade Dog Shampoo Recipe
Have you been wondering… how can I make homemade dog shampoo? It’s easy, and you only need 3 ingredients!
How to Clean Pet Stains Out of Carpet! {23 Easy Tricks}
Accidents happen, and sometimes they leave behind stains and smells. Here’s some help to the rescue with these simple hacks and tried and true tips for Cleaning Dog Stains and removing odors and spots from carpets!
How to Clean a Dog Collar
Got a stinky Dog Collar? Then you’ll love this tips for How to Clean a Dog Collar!
More Homemade Cleaners:
How to Fix a Squeaking Door {Easy Squeaky Door Fixes}
Is that squeaky door hinge driving you bananas? Then it’s time to try some of these simple tips for How to Fix a Squeaking Door!
Easiest Way to Clean Carpet Stains
Next time you need to clean a carpet stain, try this tip for the easiest way to clean carpet stains!
Thrifty DIY Weed Killer Trick
You’re gonna love this frugal gardening tip for making your own natural Homemade Weed Killer with White Vinegar.
Keep Shoes From Smelling {6 Easy Tricks}
Here are some really easy ways to help remedy that stink and make all those shoes more tolerable once again!
Easy Trick for How to Clean Rubber Stamps
Make crafting cleanup easy with this simple tip for how to clean rubber stamps!
30+ Ways to Use Baking Soda {Tips and Tricks}
Load up on some seriously creative Baking Soda tips and tricks with these genius Ways to Use Baking Soda!
45+ Clever Ways to Use Vinegar {Cleaning Tips and Tricks}
Let your creativity go wild with these fun Ways to Use Vinegar!
How to Clean Grill Grates {Do THIS, Not That}
When you know How to Clean Grill Grates the easy way, you’ll want to ditch the kitchen and head outside way more often for some epic summertime grilling!
21 Brilliant Spring Cleaning Hacks
Use these Spring Cleaning tips and tricks to save you time and money… you’ll have your house looking fabulous in no time!
Want even more fun and frugal money saving tips? Get inspired with these ideas I know you’ll love…
How To Cut Your Grocery Bill In Half {35+ Money Saving Tips}
Want to know how to cut your grocery bill in half? Keep more cash in your wallet with these easy money saving tricks!
333 Brilliant Ways To Save More Money Around The House
These affordable ideas and frugal hacks for your home can make saving so much easier.
6 Frugal Lessons: Life-Changing Lessons I Learned from my Grandmothers
Today I want to share with you 6 Life-Changing Frugal Lessons I Learned from my Grandmothers!
How I Became a Frugal Girl
This is the story of How I Became a Frugal Girl + 5 Life Changing Lessons I’ve Learned about Money!
200 Easy Frugal Tips To Save You More Money
Just like sweet friendship, dark chocolate and a good cup of coffee, finding new ways to save your money is always a very very good thing!
How To Save Money Fast {20 Easy Ways to Save $2200 this Month!}
Are you wondering how to Save Money Fast? It’s easy when you start slashing expenses and adding these extra streams of income to your finances!
Don’t miss out! Get even more fun Frugal Girls Tips, Crafts, Recipes + more right here…
Got a Thrifty Tip or Trick…. or some favorite Homemade Cleaners you use??
Leave a comment & share!
Christie says
That homemade ring cleaner sounds awesome Heidi!!! I’ve been meaning to find a recipe for one. Thanks for sharing!
Heidi says
You’re very welcome, Christie! It really is the easiest trick to get your ring sparkling again! 🙂
Holly says
Wow! You’ve covered just about every possible need in the home. Amazing! Thank you for sharing these!
I’m a big fan of DIY or natural living tips. Why wouldn’t we save money AND reduce the toxic load in our home? It’s a win all the way around.
The jasmine room spray sounds incredible. I love that scent. Looks like you’ve given me my next DIY inspiration. Thanks again! ♥ I hope you & your loved ones are well, happy and blessed.
Heidi says
You’re very welcome, Holly… I’m so glad you liked the natural homemade cleaners tips! And you will LOVE the Jasmine Room Spray – it really smells so lovely! 🙂
Scarlet says
What a great collection of homemade cleansers! I love how there is a cleaning recipe for everything:)
Louise says
I’m cleaning my whole house today & getting prepared for my scheduled c-section on Tuesday! So I needed some great recipes. Thank you very much for sharing! This helps as in a lot
Lawrence says
WoW! This website has answers to a lot of things!! I’ve used some of the recipes on here and it works wonders for the cost of almost to nothing! I actually tried cleaning the tiles of my swimming pool using a method on here and i actually enjoyed to a point where i no longer need to get my expensive pool technicians no more… phew.
thanks a lot!
Juana says
Hello, you have a great side here, i already try the 409 and it does really works, thank you, now do you have any recipes to clean grease spot from clothing, thanks.
Helen Sidwell says
Going to try this! I will take a small bleached spot over a dark brown carpet spot
Charlene says
What would get a rust stain out of clothing?
Diane Sharp says
Help I need advise. We recently opened a gym. I’m wanting to make our own green cleaning solution. But afraid the vingear and scented oil might discolor leather seats that are RED. Any experience with leather?
We are beginners and not sure if water is necessary in mixture, some say yes some say no????
John says
I finally found amazing cleaning tips. Thanks for sharing posts like this. Keep up the good work.
Diane Sharp says
We have a gym and I was wanting to make our own cleaning solution. On the metal equipment I believe it will be fine. But the seats are red leather, will it be safe to use on them? I’m a beginner making our own solution.
Grace Langdon says
Great ideas! I’m so glad I found this post, because I just started my home fall cleaning and needed a new recipe for a carpet cleaning solution. Thanks for all the recipes and the advises.
Megan Muzny says
Thanks its always nice to save a little money.
Lee Sleight says
My daughter just moved out and left a nonstick green fry pan with a build up of burnt food. It doesn’t come off. Anybody have any ideas.
Alma says
Anybody have a recipe for diy wrinkle releaser? I love the downey one but its like seven bucks a bottle!! would love to know how to make it myself and it be cheaper!
Heidi says
Hi Alma ~ here is a link to the DIY Wrinkle Releaser.
Hope that helps! 😉
https://thefrugalgirls.com/2013/04/diy-wrinkle-releaser.html
Sylvia Andrews says
HI, does anyone have a recipe for making tablets the size of
cupcakes that are used in the bottom of the bathtub,when taking a shower.Vapors are released when the hot steam hits. This helps congestion of the sinus.I saw a recipe on a website,can’t remember the site. I remember the tablets are made of baking soda,3 essential oils & some water. Baked in muffin lined pans,then cooled several hours. Thanks, if you can help. Sylvia
Dorothy Miner says
My husband found your web site and I’m a prson tat loves to do things myself to save money.. I’ve made your laundry and fab soft. and they are GREAT!!! I have a girl that has really oily hair. The stores do NOT sell shampoo for oily hair anymore. Is there a recipe for shampoo for poily hair.. wold just love it .. thanks for being there girls.. love your site. 🙂
Nancy says
Any good suggestions for getting the yellow stains out from the armpits of T-shirts? I hate having to throw away a good T-shirt just b/c of a stain. Thanks
Alicia says
Does anyone know the amount of vinegar to use in place of bleach for whites in the washing machine?
Claudia says
Grout Doctor in AZ is a great company! Love them!!!!
mrsjdt says
Removing yellow urine from rugs—if fresh, remove as much “wet” as you can…mist with water to re-wet and sprinkle with corn starch—cover with paper towel, copy paper, something, and let it dry. You’ll be amazed at the amount of “yellow” that absorbed in to the corn starch—vacuum up, and do again if needed. When satisfied with that, shampoo as usual.
Kati says
I just found a handy trick to clean my stone cookware. Mix half a cup baking SODA with 3tablespoons water. I just used my hand to scrub the areas that needed it. I bought a stone piece at a garage sale and it had been kept with metal pans. The soda mix got all the stains off SUPER easy and there are no chemicals! The added plus is, by using my hands, now they are scrubbed soft, like a hand scrub!
Brooklyn ny Carpet Cleaning says
Vinegar is my recipe of cleaning. It works great for any type of hard cleaning. And it’s also very easy to apply!!
Darlene M. Tcholakov says
I have a rather strange question, I buy very large bags of dog and cat food, along with the largest parrot and cockatiel food, being I am on disability and purchase their foods once a month I am finding I have these little moth like critters coming around the food storage area and around my birds dishes, does anyone have a solution or suggestion I could use to stop this, I did fit the bird food in the freezer, the cat and dog food comes in such big bags I don’t believe I can get them in the fridge…hummm.. unless I repack in smaller bags… my cages are changes every day, during the summer months and every 2 days in the winter.. anyone with a idea please contact me… Thank you, DarMar
lyn henderson says
do you know a good mixture for car washing
Reba Pistole says
Love everything i have read,made and used.. I am a grandma, and have lots of experience with lots of different things.. One being , the use of milk to get out unwashed blood stains. They sometimes use it in the hospital on carpet. One lady who made wedding dresses used ammonia when she accidently stuck her finger while sewing. took out the blood and didnt leave any spot.Milk will also remove some permanent markers. Once a marker was in the dryer with my little grandaughters new B’Day dress. It looked like poka dots all over.. I soaked it in milk and washed it again and they all came out.. I did rub it some between my hands first though.. so gentle to use.. This is kinda gross to think about,, but milk is blood originally.Thank you all for your wonderful contributions… Reba
Ang says
What can I use for real wood floors? We’re overseas & I’ve tried the mop & glo type cleaner for wood floors but it makes my floor sticky. What can I use that won’t show prints 30 sec later & won’t leave the floor sticky?
melissa dehart says
I saw a cleaning soltion for cleaning mattress stains and now I can’t find it does anyone know what it is? I think it had baking soda and vinager but I’m not sure what else thank you
Lillian says
We have an orange carpet in our house. I mean, bright orange. Somehow we always end up with brown, dirt and pet stains all over it that make the carpet well, ugly, and the stained spots are incredibly stiff. Any ideas on how I can get the stains out?
Amy says
My son and his best friend (both 10 years old) did their science fair project by making the laundry detergent like the one you’ve posted. It’s a Duggar one, I believe. Very good stuff…I should know…I got the fruits of their labor…20gallons of laundry soap. Now, I’m gonna make the fabric softener for sure! Thanks!
Terri D'Pulos says
I have asthma so I have to stay away from perfumes and harsh chemicals, here is one cleaning tip for any glass surface. Use two microfiber clothes , one wet to clean one dry to dry off. Your mirrors will sparkle. You can add a dab of dish soap to the wet cloth if heavy buildup, you may have to rinse. Also Dollar tree has hand towel size that is perfect for drying.
Darlene M. Tcholakov says
This may sound off the wall, but does anyone out there have a solution that I can make to kill poison sumac? I have 2 clusters of them in the area of my home, I cannot sit outdoors in those areas I am so allergic to the sumac, I welcome any suggestions, I want to try to catch this while they are still down and not as high as trees… Thanks to everyone with suggestions… Darlene
J.B says
This may sound kind of odd, but to get bad stains out of laundry (even blood or grease) use Brake cleaner. You can get a good sized can at walmart for maybe $2… It doesnt smell that great when you spray it on, or put the clothes into the dryer but after its all dry you dont smell the cleaner anymore. It works great!!
Emilia says
This is awesome! I just came from Safeway and didn’t buy windex thinking I would make my own glass cleaner. Now I don’t have to look around how. Does anyone know how to make homemade bubble bath for kids?
Brenda Sarver says
I have small ants in the kitchen. Does anyone have any ant killing recipes? I’ve tried everything! Thanks, Brenda
Heidi says
Hi Brenda ~ here are several tips for ways to get rid of ants here:
https://thefrugalgirls.com/2011/09/diy-get-rid-of-ants.html
Hope that helps!! 🙂
~ Heidi
Reba Pistole says
I have tried this and it is supposed to even work outside for fire ants etc, Cream of wheat ,,dry sprinkled around where they travel. they love it and take it to their homes. when they eat it , it swells up and they cant digest it,, sounds cruel,but is non toxic and has worked good for me even in the garden.
Laurie says
I just found this site,read through the comments . And now I’m going to try a lot of your homemade recipes and remedies. Thank you all.
debbie says
I’m looking for a cleaner and sealer for the grout on my tile floors.
Thanks
Claudia says
Grout doctor is great!!!!
Susan Barwick says
My daughter’s Herbal lady told her about using things like peppermint oil and other oils mixed in water for cleaning. The one using peppermint is a general cleaner. I will have to call and get the recipes and other oils that she uses. They really do clean and it smells so good during and afterwards.
Susan Barwick says
To clean tubs, surround tiles and glass doors use equal parts of vinegar and Dawn. Heat the vinegar and add to Dawn in a spray bottle. All the reviews say it cleans them and leaves them spotless. Also will clean and shine sink and shower fixtures to look like new.
Motherhood isn't for the Weak says
I am so glad I came across this site! I’ve been planning on making fabric softener because it’s the one thing I am struggling to get for cheap with coupons. Thank you for posting this and I plan to continue checking out your site and your facebook for more helpful, frugal tips.
Thanks again,
-Chelsea
Kelly Hensley says
Good morning all. The other day I made the laundry soap. Can someone please tell me what the consistency is suppose to be? My soap, initially, had a gelled appearance, but after shaking the bottle appears liquefied again. Is this how it should appear? Thanks All!
Kamie says
Does anyone have any alternatives to Dreft stain remover? This stuff works AWESOME, but the stores around me (in WI) are discontiuting it. Please help!!
Anastasia says
Hi, I have a question. Does anybody know how to make carpet cleaning soap that would also fight stains. I have a 11 month old son, and we have a lot of stains now on our carpet 🙁
Pam says
I absolutely love you site. So many helpful tips and ideas. I cant help but keep coming back. Heep up the good work and God bless !!
Heidi says
Aww ~ thanks so much for the kind words, Pam! 😉
We’re so glad to have you here, joining in the $$-saving FUN!
~ Heidi
Tracy says
For cleaning your microwave put a bowl of vinegar water in the microwave heat for about 2 – 2.5 minutes and all the junk and grime wipes off easily. Tip- I use the hot vinegar water that I ran through my coffee maker.
Belinda says
I polish my stainless steel sink with baby oil and it gives it a great shine. I have also used it on Formica counters and wipe off the excess oil.
Sara says
I have a recipe for homemade “Bottom Spray” for your baby when changing diapers. In a 4oz spray bottle (in travel section at Walmart or Target) add 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp baby bath soap, and fill with water. You’ll need to shake it when you use it but it’s great! After you have wiped your baby’s bottom, give it a spray or two for and wipe one last time. The soap and water clean and the baby oil moisterizes.
Betsy says
i have been using the Laundry soap recipe for over a year now… i think it’s good.. but our Tshirts and sometimes denim stinks.. like has an old ,sour smell.. what causes this ? Also, how do clean out an HE washer ? It has an old, yucky smell too ??? HELP !!
Heidi says
Hi Betsy ~ for my HE Washer, I use Clorox Washing Machine Cleaner {or just bleach} and run it through with nothing else in the washer on the hot sanitizing mode about once a month or so. I also always leave the door to the washer open when not in use, and dry out with a cloth between the rubber seals after every use. {that tip comes from my sister-in-law, and has helped a bunch!} Hope that helps!
~ Heidi
Dolores says
To clean granite: pour equal parts rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Cleans and disinfects too! I’ve been using it on my granite counter for 9 years.
Hannah says
I use pledge spray on my granite to make them shine! Just spray and buff away.
Lila says
Iam looking for a recipe for a spray on carpet cleaner or spot cleaner like you can buy that doesnt leave a sticky film to grab dirt. thanks
KAREN MILLER says
HI-WE OWNED SEVERAL CARPET CLEANING FRANCHISES FOR 20 YRS-OUR SON NOW OWNS IT. JUST USE BAKING SODA AND WATER TO CLEAN UP THE STICKY RESIDUE FROM THE CARPET CLEANERS. This may take several times to get it all out-depending on how sticky your carpet is. Let dry between spotting-also don’t overrub the carpet(this causes wear) just blot.
Christina says
I have been searching for more ways to save my family of 5 money. With the economy the way it is and the price of all products including food has risen. Therefore I have become a couponing momma so to speak and penny pinching diligently=-] I soooo soooo love this site and all the homemade recipes which save on the moola. Added to the cost effective items is the healthy additive to it. Thank you so much for all these recipes and added ways to save money.
Much Love,
Christina
kathy says
Pinterest.com has tons of diy cleaners, beauty products ect. and it’s WAY fun.
Pennie Wood says
I love this site!!! It has so many great ideas. I am looking for a way to make homemade disinfecting wipes like the Lysol ones you buy. They are so expensive but I love the convenience and the quick disinfecting and throw away option. Does anyone have anyideas or recipes? thank you in advance for your help and ideas
Heather Reed says
White vinegar is a good disinfectant. Just keep some mixed with water under the sink with some paper towels and use that!
Danielle Roman-Ekhoff says
We are startingto make our own cleaners and have found just about everything thing I need except for one for the dishwasher soap preferably a powder but liquid will do to ?? Anyone have a recipe for that please share need soon so don’t have to go by some lol. THX
Paula Geistfeld says
Dishwasher Detergent
I have been using this for a few years and works great.
1/2 cup Borax
1/2 cup washing soda
1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup citric acid….(we use this in water for new batches of weaned pigs when they come in…we purchase it from the Feed Mill at our local elevator in 50 lb bags…dont know where to tell you to buy it otherwise as we always have it on hand but it has to be around…do a google search.
Put in a container and shake it up…It will clump up on sometimes which isnt a big deal as they will dissolve in wash cycle…I have noticed if I shake it often…like every day…it stays fine. Use 1 tbsp. /scoop for each trap..
I also use straight vinegar as my rinse agent…my glasses always look spotless.
Was very impressed the first load of dishes I did using this recipe…it was amazing the difference in appearance in everything…so bright and clean.
Good Luck…hope you like it
Angie says
I use the same recipe and LOVE it! Works like a charm and is so much cheaper. For the citric acid, I use LemiShine. I found mine at Walmart by the Borax.
Shelly says
Probably a dumb question, but what is washing soda?
Jenn says
Washing Soda is found in the laundry aisle. It is made my Arm & Hammer. 🙂
Julee says
Im looking for a alternative to clorax colorsafe bleach- my daughter has a feeding tube that leaks blood and other stomach fluids on her clothes and sheets. I use homemade laundry soap – borax,washing soda and fels napa. I need a good stain remover but hate paying for clorox its expensive. Any ideas? I have tried oxy clean.
Janneth says
Often times, just using a bit of soap on the stain and scrubbing it out will get it out completely. I’ve also used hydrogen peroxide to get out dried in blood stains. or, if you have borax, dampen the stain with water, sprinkle some borax over it, and leave it alone for a half hour. Come back to it and in a bucket, agitate it with your hands (a sort of kneading motion, like making bread) and a bit of scrubbing if the agitating motion isn’t getting it out will do the job. I’ve also read that some rubbing alcohol will revitalize old stains and thus will make it easier to get out.
Teresa says
My daughter would use dial liquid soap in poop stains on her new born. It worked well. Maybe it could work on blood also. I don’t know. It’s a thought.
Mona Plubell says
I am a nurse and I have always used warm salt water to remove blood, works great!
Beverly says
When I broke my leg in 2001, the nurses told my mom to use straight peroxide on the blood in the carpet. I have since used it to get blood out of my hubby’s clothes (he is a bleeder). It works great! I have not had any problem with discoloration of clothes or carpet but I would still check your clothing for color fastness. Hope this helps.
ila says
I would love to have a homemade cleaner for a carpet cleaner. We have a small Bissel and I would love to do my own cleaner.
Kris says
I used to have a bissel…instead of putting the cleaner in the soltion part i would add vinegar…the house did have a strong vinegar scent but my carpets always looked better and they weren’t “stiff” like they were when i used the commerical cleaner…
Paige says
I have been using the homemade laundry detergent recipe for the last 3 years. I LOVE IT!!! I make it,put it in mason jars and give it as gifts. It’s so easy to make and affordable and works great on clothes. I made a believer out of my husband with it. We have five kids between us and laundry NEVER stops,so this is one more way for us to save money without losing quality. I also make it for my mother to use on my dad and sister’s clothing. They are both very physically ill people and have sensitive skin. They never have skin problems using the homemade detergent.
Kathy says
Hello, I used to have a recipe for a spray bottle to clean my kitchen counter tops, but lost it. It was water/bleach/and my favorite smell of Pine-Sol, or you could even use Mr.Clean. Can you, or rather, shall I ask, do you know the ratio to make this spray? It makes the whole house smell SO good!! If I shall change my mind on using bleach, what could I use instead, ammonia? Sometimes I worry about getting bleach on my clothes.
Thank you!
Kathy
Darlene M. Tcholakov says
Would any of us frugal girls know a receipe for dishwasher soap to share with us?
Robyn says
For fleas,sprinkle borax all over floors, work into carpets with a broom. Leave overnight or all day while away. Come home and vacuum it alll up. Works great without harsh chemicala, and leaves the house with a clean, fresh scent
Robbi says
Will the Borax harm the Animals? I have 3 Maltese Pups.
christa says
I had a huge flea problem last year and tried everything including the borax method with no luck. We were ready to rip up all of the carpet. I own a Eureka Enviro Steamer and decided as a last resort to use it in every room. It worked so good! I think maybe after that I saw just a couple of fleas. I have also heard that the steamers work to kill bed bugs.
Karen says
Does anyone have any ideas to remove fleas from carpet? without having to bomb the whole house?
Toni says
Use equal parts of water and Pine Sol in a spray bottle, spray everything from carpets to baseboards!!
nickie says
You can also use just plain old table salt. sprinkle it thru your carpet and on your fabric furniture it will get rid of the fleas. Let it set for about 3-4 hours the runt he vac. you get up the salt and the dead fleas.
Tania says
I read yrs ago to put out a nightlight in areas pet goes in and under it a small bowl of water with a drop or so of dish liquid. I have used this for yrs. off and on when we have a problem. And to check if we have a problem in spring and summer months especially.You will be surprised how it gets fleas,gnats,spiders. They love that warm light and can’t get out of the Dawn water. Getting ready to put mine out since we had a warm winter this yr.
barb says
Can anyone tell me where to buy these essential oils????
Thanks!!
Waterflower says
Essential oils can be bought online, just google “essential oils”.
Angela says
Has anyone ever used Hydrogen Peroxide instead of bleach? Just wondering!
Barbara L. Robinson says
Yes, I have used both. When I use bleach, I do the 1-10 mix. Being a nurse, this is what we used to clean up spills…would even kill HIV germs if such were in a blood spill! If you have never read about the peroxide, do a search…it is awesome and cost effective!
trudy thayer says
I love this cleaner. I also have it in spray bottles in the essential rooms…..for me this also works great on carpets, I have kitties and no smell, no stains, and no toxins. Love this site, thank you for the wonderful ideas.
sherri says
I just wanted to say “Thank you” for all the wonderful tips for saving money. I started making my own 409, fabric softener and washing detergent this week and I could not believe the difference in my laundry. Thanks again Frugal Girls.
Marie Gush says
have granite counter tops??? or basic countertops in kitchen and or bathroom? I have a Bissell steam mop and let me tell you what an awesome job it does on granite countertops without any chemicals. The countertops sparkle, smudges and muck comes off with ease (the steam mop comes with 2 cloth head covers so prior to doing the floors we hit the counters!!) and love the fact that the counters are sterilized pretty much without any chemicals.
Holly says
I love my bissell Steam mop!
khit says
i do have a spray bottle with vinegar, water, baking soda in my countertop! all around cleaning supply 🙂
Stephanie says
I would love to have a recipe for homemade liquid dishwasher detergent that didn’t contain borax.
Julie S says
My husband accidentally hit a candle that was lit and the wax spilled onto a sweater that was near it. The sweater is not a thick weave but a looser knit weave. I went to the fabric store and they didn’t know of anything that I could use to remove the wax. I read somewhere about using towels, and iron, and a lot of blotting but would like to use something easier if I could. Thanks for the help.
Anne says
PUT IT IN THE FREEZER FOR A HALF HOUR AND WHEN U TAKE IT OUT IT SHOULD CRUMBLE OUT WHEN U RUMPLE IT
Jen says
a hair dryer on the low setting and paper towels work great and it really doesnt take long. One of our tenants got candle wax on the carpet in a bedroom and I had it cleaned up within a couple minutes.
Mamajana says
Set a wet towel on top and iron, it transfers to the wet towel, this also works on carpet. We spilled a RED candle on lt beige carpet, came out! Learned it from a friend in the carpet cleaning business!
Julie says
Vinegar should NOT be used on tile floors. I tried it and to this day my tiles are dull and dingy. The vinegar ruined the tile finish.
Jen says
Try cleaning them with Finish dishwashing powder. All you do is mix it with water like you do when you mop the floor normally. It takes everything up and makes white tile white again gets rid of every little dirt spot I cinderella clean (on my hands and knees) and it works great! I use it in my jacuzzi tub also! I learned all this from working at a resort!
Amanda says
I also use Finish Dishwashing tabs in my jacuzzi tub! Works like a champ, and I dont have to crawl in there and scrub it!
Connie Roche says
actually I sat in a chair that a candle was knocked over in– my brand new pantsuit was ruined– and since it was – I placed in a large pot on stove with almost boiling hot water, the wax (oil) floated to the top and I used paper towels to remove wax from the water– turned off pot and then placed brown paper bags over item and ironed, turning bag often until all wax was gone.
Beckie says
Instead of buying dryer sheets, I use a washcloth and fabric softener. I put some into a spray bottle (undiluted) and put about six or seven squirts onto each side of the washcloth and throw it into the dryer. Works just as good as a dryer sheet and is great for the environment. I always do my towels last so I then throw the washcloth in that load and wash and dry as normal.
Erica B says
Instead of scrubbing a pot, pan, or dish that has baked-on crud on it, fill it with hot water and put a dryer sheet in the water. Let it sit for an hour and all the food will slide right of the edges. Even used dryer sheets work. When I get done with a load of laundry, I just put the used sheets under my kitchen sink. I know this sounds weird, but it works amazingly! This trick also works for cleaning paintbrushes.
deana says
this really does work. I actually tried it last night on some baked on chicken i had in the dish i baked it in. I just added a little hot water, put the fabric softener in and let it soak while I was finishing up cooking the last bit of dinner. About 10 minutes or so later dumped the water out, threw away the fabric softner and the pan wiped out clean.
molly says
does anyone have a recipe for homemade wipes that uses bleach?
Lisa says
Help! Can anyone tell me how to get finger nail polish out of carpet? Thanks
Amanda J says
Thank you for this! I will definitely be making several of these!!
Candy says
Be Careful! I have read numerous places not to mix vinegar and peroxide. Here is one explanation:When cleaning with vinegar, make sure that it does not come in contact with hydrogen peroxide. Mixing the two will create Peracetic Acid (C2H4O3).
The toxicity of Peracetic Acid is low. However, peracids are extremely irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It has a strong oxidizing potential, is highly corrosive, and can explode at temperatures exceeding 110ºC.
Candy says
Sheri,
The washing detergent works great in my front load HE machine. I’ve been using it since October.
Tonya says
Gorgeously Green All Purpose Spray-I make up a spray bottle for the Kitchen & Bathroom. Cuts Grease, germs & grime and it smells good. You can use it on just about everything:Fridge, counter tops, walls, doorknobs, toilet seats, sinks & so on.
32 oz plastic spray bottle
2 cups water
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1 teaspoon pure castile soap
3/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
20 drops tea tree oil
20 drops of lavender or lemongrass essential oil
Fill plastic bottle w/ water, add vinegar, castile soap, hydrogen peroxide, tea tree oil, and lavender or lemongrass essential oil. In Hot Summer Months, add about 10 drops of citronella essential oil to spray bottles, as it is an excellent insect repellent.
This spray is suitable for acrylic, ceramic tile, wood, marble & granite. For other Great Money Saving & Green Products you might want to get this book…Gorgeously Green 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life. Love, Love, Love this book. Lots and lots of Information and some really Good Green Recipes for use indoors, outdoors and some cooking recipes. Enjoy!!
Aileen horch says
I started making homemade laundry soap about 6-7 months ago and I LOVE it! With 8 kids and 3 grandkids laundry is an every day chore. The money I have saved on laundry soap has been amazing. I have told a number of friends about it and several have tried it and liked it.
Sherri says
The washing detergent does it work in the HE washing machines?
Julie says
It works wonderful in HE machines. I made two batches this weekend and am sharing it with family and friends. Clothes are very soft and the scent is wonderful.
Onie V. Coleman says
I really like the Home-made Laundry Detergent, it cleans and it smells so refreshing, but I don’t get any suds at all, I realize it’s a low-sudsing mixture, but nine
[email protected] says
Love, love, love my homemade furniture polish! (Similar to Pledge Dusting Spray)
Aimee says
How do u make the furniture polish?
Lynda says
HELP!!!! Can anyone tell me (at this point it doesn’t matter cost/chemical embedded,etc.) if you know of anything that will take permanent parker off of a leather seat and cloth top in a vehicle. My 2 year old found one that his brother accidently dropped and now….you know the rest of the story. I would be grateful for any suggestions. I know it says “permanent” for a reason but I am hoping all is not lost. Thank you to all my frugal friends!
Tracy says
I can say about a car but I got permanet marker on my suede comforter,I removed it with hairspray and alcohol.I worked really well and then rinsed it really well because the material was stiff.Hope this helps.
Anne says
Fingernail polish remover works GREAT on permant marker just dab it on with a paper towel until the mark is gone IT HAS NOT DISCOLORED ANYTHING FOR ME SO FAR *GOOD LUCK*
Tammy Burgess says
Mr. Clean eraser got permanent marker off of a door and a wall for us…two year old artist…:)
Holly says
Go Gone, works for everything!
kris says
Mr. clean eraser will clean anything, I had permanent marker on a white shelf (actual pictures) from a house I moved into, took it off like it was nothing.
Diane says
I agree… Mr. Clean Eraser WILL clean anything. Use it inside your glass coffee pot, one whoosh and the stains are gone. Use it on glass cassarole dishes to get off those black/brown burnt-on, left-over food particals. I have used them on cookie sheets. Removes soap scum inside the tub/shower walls. Great for leather shoes….
barb says
I used Mr. Clean Eraser on my shower and it did not work.I also tried fabric softener sheet and still nothing.
Jenn says
On any polished surface, you can use a dry-erase marker. Just go over the mark and wipe with a dry cloth, its like wiping off a white board.
Ginger says
Tea tree oil works great on permanant marker. My grandson got marker on my wood table and tea tree oil worked wonders.
Christie says
Does anyone have any recipes for homemade “shower clean”? I’m talking about the stuff you spray on the shower after you get out. As it is, I am using scrubbing bubbles automatic cleaner in a spray bottle since the little sprayer machine stopped working despite fresh batteries. Any ideas will be greatly appreciated!
Alaina says
I keep a spray bottle with a mixture of bleach and water in the shower. My family uses this each time we take a shower and just spray all the surfaces. I even spray the back of the shower curtain liner. This really keeps it clean and sanitized. Just be careful not to spray any fabric (curtains, towels, etc.)
Angela says
Also if you use bleach/water mixture. Be very careful about using too much bleach per water and then breathing the fumes. That will burn your nose hair off! LOL (I learned from experience, I’m said to say!)
Angela says
Whoops! That should have read Sad to say.
Guess the bleach got to me a little more than I thought. 😉
Ang says
Thanks so much for all of these tips! I had a new Army wife email me once she checked their LES (the shutdown week) & I was able to remember most of these & pass them on. I’m almost out of laundry detergent & since the possible shutdown scared the bejeebers out of me too, I’ll be making my own this week.
Dawn says
How do you clean water marks from glass shower? I feel like I’ve tried everything, the previous owners evidently didn’t!
Thanks in advance!!!
Dawn
Ashley says
the homemade 409 on this website works wonders… i would try that… it takes the rust stains off too…
Dawn says
Thanks Ashley ! I will give it a try !!
nickie says
I have really hard water and it leaves the water marks and spots behind on my glass shower doors. I have found that to get them really clean with very little effort use Lysol toilet bowl cleaner and one of the green scrubby pads it will take off all of the water marks and make the glass look new just be sure to wear rubber gloves so the Lysol does not get on your hands. It is not too expensive and what ever is left you have to clean your toilets with.
Mamajana says
Magic Erasers!! My new house had HORRIBLE hard water stains, couldn’t see out of the shower! Wiped it with the magic Erasers and they are crystal clear! I keep one in there and periodically wipe to keep them clear
Donna says
be careful if acid in cleaner will turn your chrome black. so protect your chrome or metal.
Tammy says
I seen an article that dryer sheets work on shower doors but haven’t tried it yet
Tommy says
Hey Dawn,
Use baby oil on a rag and wipe away all the soap scum and white streaks/spots from the doors and all the chrome trim on the door frames. I have been doing it here for years. Leave some of the baby oil on the chrome and doors too, it almost acts as a wax and the water will bead off. I usually do this once a month, that’s it and it takes me 15 minutes or less.
Cindy says
1-1 ratio of dishwashing liquid & vinegar. I personally used my homemade dishwasher liquid, & it worked better than the 1st batch I made with commercial dishwashing liquid. Heat the vinegar in the microwave for about 2 minutes. Pour it into a spray bottle & mix it with an equal amount of dishwashing liquid. Spray it on the shower door & chill for about 2 hours (I didn’t wait, & it still worked, but I didn’t have a really disgusting mess). Rinse it off well & enjoy the clarity!!! I also saw that if you want to KEEP the ick off your shower once it’s gone, use RainX. Sounds logical!
Barb says
Dawn and vinegar is all I use now on my shower doors and they are crystal clear.
Marcia says
Just another tip for windows: Use newspaper instead of paper towels. It leaves NO streaks! And it makes you glass so clear, that it looks like its not there at all!! 😀
PATRICIA BELL says
Thanks but I do not see it here. I am almost positive that it was water, vinegar and alcohol general cleaner. Do you remember it? Is it in your archives?
KC says
The window cleaner recipe I have used for years is equal parts of water, rubbing alcohol and ammonia. Best window cleaner I’ve ever used!
PATRICIA BELL says
I recently saw a general cleaning recipe using alcohol, water and I think vinegar. I cannot find it on the web site anymore. Can you please send it to me?
Thank you
Patti Bell
Lupe says
I have a large mirror in my living room that seems to streak no matter what glass cleaner I have tried. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Andrea says
Have you tried newspaper instead of paper towels and vinegar to clean it?
Ang says
To clear military housing our windows had to be perfectly streak-free. I poured full strength vinegar onto a rag, wiped it all wet & then used another rag to dry. My rags are just old dishtowels or washcloths, nothing fancy. I have gotten a few microfiber ones from the dollar store I like & they don’t seem to streak my bathroom mirrors.
Briton says
I have the same problem with a large mirror in my living room. I have tried EVERYTHING- vinegar, newspapers, etc…still streaky. I recently bought a microfiber cleaning cloth for my new t.v. and I tried it on my mirror. It works like a champ! Just spray the cloth with a little water and rub the mirror in small sections 🙂
Theresa says
A 50/50 solution of rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle is a great mirror cleaner! No streaks at all.
Joanne says
Hot wet washcloth will leave windows and mirrors streak-free and cleans like a champ.
Amanda says
I once worked at a hotel. The cleaning lady there used nothing but a hot wet rag and a dry rag. No cleaner at all. She would wipe the entry door (all glass) with the wet rag, then dry it with the dry rag. Never a streak! I now do this on all my mirrors and windows. Works great and is free.
Val says
I am wondering what can get hairspray build up off of standard Apt style bathroom floor(linoleum)? I’ve tried the basic “store” product & lots of scrubbing, but not much luck…any ideas?
Jen says
I have sprayed the floor with 409 and let it sit for like 5 minutes then scrubbed whith a bristle scrub brush and then mop the floor. A friend of mine and I have a cleaning business and this gets pretty much anything off of the linoleum. Hope it works for you!
rita says
Cheap .97 shaving foam from Wal-Mart works GREAT!!!
Christy says
I love my hairspray but my tile floors hate it!! I bought a HAAN floor steamer (I’m sure any would do) and VIOLA!! No build up and no sticky floor either!! Easy Peasy!!
Charlotte says
shampoo will do the trick, works removing form your hair & entire bath too ! in a spray bottle combine by filling bottle 1/3 shampoo of choice and 2/3 water, spray onto area & let sit a minute and wipe off with a clean sponge, if major build up like on floor allow to sit longer and use clean mop to wipe up
M.Ellison says
When my husband (who is a diesel Mechanic) runs out of “his” hand soap, he uses cheapo (suave) shampoo, preferably one that is good for greasy hair, and it works great! Good for those once in a while at home car maintenance jobs
Donna says
try automobile degreaser. you can buy walmart or auto
zone will even take black tar off. i use to clean sinks
etc. but wear gloves.
Anne Bratcher says
Cotton ball of alcohol.
Spray a little more neatly.
Monica says
Recipe for Homemade Stain remover for clothing:
In a large spray bottle add 1/2 cup of laundry detergent, 1/2 cup of ammonia and then fill the rest of the way to the top with water. Shake well. I spray this on stains and then use an old toothbrush to rub it in well so it penatrates the stain. I have 4 & 5 year old boys and this stuff has saved me a lot of money on stain removers.
Barbara L. Robinson says
Wondering if anyone has tried this stain remover and if you had good luck with it? Does it work for all stains? Would appreciate any comments on this one. I use the former Spray and Wash Spray Can which has worked best for me! Thx
Christina says
Peroxide, Dawn detergent and a little baking soda rubbed into the stain will remove most anything. I will never buy a store bought stain remover again!
L.Ann says
I’ve tried almost every deep conditioning treatment out there. After getting tired of spending anywhere from $15-$40 for so-so products, I did some research and now make my own.
Mix the following together:
2 Egg Yolks
2 Tbsp Mayonnaise (optional since mayo contains egg and olive oil, but it helps the treatment to not be as runny)
1 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Honey
Apply mixture to hair and cover with a plastic cap (I recycle a plastic grocery bag, twist to fit my head, and tape in place).
Wrap a towel around plastic covered head and hang out for 15-30 minutes (the towel and plastic combo helps the treatment penetrate better using your own body heat, no need for a dryer).
Shampoo and condition as normal.
This treatment makes my hair feel like heaven and really brings out the shine. The egg yolk adds protein, the olive oil adds moisture, the mayo adds both protein and moisture, and the honey gives incredible shine.
Trudy says
I’ve been using apple cider vinegar to rinse/condition my hair for a while now and I love it. I wash my hair, rinse it, spray ACV on, work in with fingertips, put a shower cap on, finish showering and when done, take off cap, rinse hair and it shines like the sun and is soft as can be. All with no vinegar scent. I love it.
Gretchen Barendse says
i use strictly baking soda and water to wash my hair and water and apple cider vinegar and water to condition it. I have VERY longhair and don’t have any issues with needing to use any other type of deep conditioner or other additive in my hair.
Brenda says
Does the baking soda and water not leave your hair dry? Do you ever use shampoo and conditioner of any type?
And last but not least, is your hair type oily or dry?
C.K. says
Hi L.Ann………I would like to post this on my web site do you have it posted anywhere so I can also give you credit…………Thank you, CK
Jeanette says
What is your most cost effective stain remover/pretreater? I have been buying Clorox 2 free and clear. Any alternative suggestions? Thank you!!
kathy says
I use 2 parts peroxide to 1 part Dawn in a spray bottle. It’s good on carpet stains too.
Jennifer says
I tried this recently and I was amazed at how well it worked on stains. This will definitely be the first thing I go to for future stains.
Erineyes51 says
Years ago my sister told me about this great stain removing trick, it works especially good for removing baby food stains from clothing as well as yellow underarm stains and makes sport socks sparkle. The recipe is:
1 cup of liquid bleach
1 cup of cascade powder dishwashing liquid
1 cup of powder laundry detergent
Fill washing machine with the hottest water you can. Place the above ingredients in and allow to agitate for about 2 minutes. Place clothing in machine and let it run through 1 wash cycle. Turn machine off and allow articles to soak over night or at least 8 hours. Put the machine through the entire cycle again. When you remove the clothes you will be shocked how clean they are and stain free.
Anne Bratcher says
THANK YOU!!!
My girlfriend used this recipe YEARS ago (we’re Grannies now). She bought almost ALL of her kid’s clothing from garage sales (her husband was a cheap scape). This got out the stains on the clothing so they looked NEW!
27 years later:
I have a friend who now buys and sells antique linens and I have been trying to find this recipe!!! XO
Amanda says
Does this only work for whites sinve there is bleach?
amy says
I was told years ago, to clean your dishwasher use TANG. I have not tried it yet! To clean a coffee pot use white vinegar and water.
Lara says
Can also get powdered citric acid at the pharmacy…it tends to work faster without the extra colors…it is natural white colored….
meredith says
Another great restaurant tip for cleaning coffee pots is to fill with ice, salt, and lemon juice and swirl periodically until ice melts a bit and then let it sit over night and rinse in morning!
LIsa Lam says
When I worked at a restaraunt, this is the formula we used. It always amazed me at how well it got the stains ou.
Joleen says
My mom told me to help clean out your dishwasher and make it smell better and give your dishes a pretty shine to get one packet of lemon flavored Kool Aide and put it in the part that has the lid and run the washer for a whole cycle. It starts to smell lemony fresh and looks great and the dishes and glasses don’t spot anymore. Lots cheaper than other dishwasher agents!!
Gretchen Barendse says
You can use lemonade flavored Koolade to clean your toilets. First, add the packet of drink mix to the bowl, brush as you normally would to clean it, then let sit for 4 hours or overnight. The citric acid in the drink mix is what actually does the work….Just be sure to close the lid if you have animals….
SHEILA says
the best way I have found to clean a coffee pot is to put about 1-2 tablespoons dry dishwashing powder in pot and fill with hot water. the pot comes clean in a matter of minutes.
Donna says
try lime away or anything that cleans
rust/calcium/lime cleans right out.
you’ll have a sparkling pot.
Beverly Becraft Blair says
To clean coffee pots or anything that is heavy spoiled by coffee stains. Crushed ice, Comet (yes Comet) and water. Swish, swish and swish and clean with sponge/scrubber
This is how resturatants clean their coffee pots. They will sparkle afterwards.
Sandy says
If you use lemon juice in your dishwasher along with your dishwasher soap your glasses come out sparkling.
Karen says
thanks for the tip! Do you just mix the lemon juice right in with the detergent when you put it in?
Connie says
Just be carefull if your dishes have paint on them. Mom has glasses with paint on them that have been washed in the dishwaser for years, but the paint started to wash off when she started adding lemon juice to her load.
kathy says
Fill you rinse agent dispencer with white vinegar. Really works and so cheap. Also works great as fabric softener. NO your clothes don’t smell like pickles 🙂
MLH says
To clean rings out of the toilet, this works great. First, flush the toilet and when the water is all flushed out turn it off back behind the toilet. Then spray the entire ring with warm vinegar. Sprinkle that with Borax and let sit for 1/2 hour. Then scrub the ring with drywall sandpaper. You can get this at any building supply store. With a very little elbow grease, the ring will come right off!
Jenni says
Wow! Thanks! Will have to try that! Is it hard to turn off the toilet?
MLH says
Not at all. The turnoff valve should sit on a water hose or pipe just behind the toilet. When all the water is flushed out, just turn the knob the only way it will go. This turns off the water to the toilet. Good luck!
kathy says
If you use a johnny mop, you can easily push the water down the toilet. Then use a pumice stone to rub the ring out. It really works and doesn’t scratch the bowl. p.s. never use a razor blade, the cold water can shatter the blade putting your eyes in danger.
Donna says
try the works toilet bowl cleaner takes all rings out
with a little soaking then brush it and gone. has worked
in apt complexes on move out.
Anne Bratcher says
Use water. Pour a big container of water into the toilet – pour it ‘hard’. It will ‘flush’ the water level down for you.
What water do I use?
Sometimes I will use a large container or tub to do the dishes in. Then I use this water to dump in the toilet.
When I empty the small plastic trash can in the bathroom, sometimes I want to wash it out. So I fill it 2/3 full from the tub, wash/swish, and dump this water into the toilet.
Also, I frequently soak my feet in Epsom salts or just plain warm water. Then, you guessed it, I use THAT water to pour in the tub.
Many times we have a bucket of water that can be used double duty. Just keep that trick in mind. There’s nothing to dumping the water, sprinkling on your comet or baking soda mixed with lemon juice, and walking away. Scrub brush it just before you want to sit down … easy peasy 🙂
Colleen says
Love the site and already made my batch of 409, it works great. I received a refillable mop for Christmas and was looking for homemade floor cleaning recipes to fill the bottle. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks for the help.
Kit says
We have a small cleaning business and the best product for cleaning floors is, white vinegar and water. Vinegar is a natural rinse agent. It will not streak your floors or cause build up. Not to mention, that you are not breathing in harsh chemicals. This is a great window/glass cleaner also!
Laura says
Can you use the vinegar/water solution on laminate wood floors?
Kit says
Yes, you can use it on anything. Just make sure your rag is rung out well, just damp. Laminate floors should not have a lot of water on them. Hope that helps!
Amy Sue says
anyone know what the ratio on the water and vinegar for the floors is?
meredith says
With vinegar, a little bit goes a long way. I usually add about 1/4 cup or slightly less to my mop bucket if it’s a regular sized bucket. If you have a large or extra large bucket, you could use 1/2 a cup probably.
Amy Sue says
Ok, Thank you! And does the vinegar sanitize in all these cleaning solutions?
meredith says
Not totally sure what you mean, but I only use vinegar and warm water for mopping (linoleum floors, tile,and hardwoods).
Holly says
Just DO NOT use Vinegar on Granite surfaces!! It eats away the granite and will cause holes.
You want to avoid any type of acidic cleaner on a granite surface; that’s because acids will cause etching in the surface, which are tiny lines and fissures. Etching mars the surface of granite. Since vinegar is a strong acid, you want to leave it on the shelf when choosing a cleaner for your granite. It will clean and disinfect the surface, but it can also mar the finish permanentl
Jessica says
Yes! It works great on tile, laminate, and most all harder surfaces.
Andrea Sayers says
I add just a DROP of Dawn to my spray bottle of vinegar too. It cleans almost anything including windows. Stainless steel sinks with lime/water spots too. The Dawn helps break up gunk stuck to floors and counters as well.
Tracy says
We have laminate floors and were instructed specifically to not use vinegar or water……..only LAMINATE cleaner or swifter cleaner. If you use the least bit too much water, within a year or two, your floor will become dull and start to bubble. That is what they told us. i have a friend that used vinegar and water, and 2 years later, her floors look terrible
Tracy says
I have laminate floors, and we too were instructed not to use vinegar and water because it would dull and bubble your floors within 2 years which happened to our cousins. However, if I use laminate floor cleaner, it acts like a polish, causing every single footprint, etc to show up right after I clean it. I found a site that recommends using 1/3 water, 1/3 vinegar and 1/3 alcohol. BUT, the catch is to do a small area, then go right behind yourself and wipe it with a paper towel until dry. My floors looked claen for several days, unlike when I use laminate floor cleaner.
Julie says
do not use vinegar on tile floors whatever you do…it ruined mine
Laura says
I use vinegar/water on my tile floors all the time. works great with no problems.
Laci says
Does anyone know how to get pee stains that are bright yellow from the carpet?
Jenn says
My husband is the manager of a carpet cleaning company and he always tells me if I have to clean up pee use 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. Spray it on but don’t saturate it you don’t want to wash it into the pad. Then lay a towel over it and stand on it till it feels dry to the touch. You can place something heavy on it and let it sit. If that doesn’t work you will have to call a prfessional to clean it up. If you do call someone make sure to ask what they clean with. You want someone that uses an enzyme. It breaks down the dirt & oils in the carpet unlike soaps that attract dirt & make your carpet look dirty faster. I use the enzyme my husbands company uses to wash my laundry. Some companies use soaps so they get repeat business. Also don’t get suckered into protector. Most carpet now comes with it on it and if yours didn’t then it is old carpet and the protector won’t do you any good. Hope this helps.
Rhonda says
Another item for helping to wick up liquid is a disposable diaper. Open flat and lay it on the wet area. As you walk on it wicks up the liquid without reintroducing the liquid into the floor/rug. I kept these in my van when I had small children as it was a quick pick up for any liquid spill!
Brooke says
hydrogen peroxide diluted w/ water has always worked for me. My carpets range from blue to dark grey and beige. You’ll want to test for colorfastness prior to putting it on, I just use a spray bottle with the mix *you need to use it as soon as you mix it, it won’t ‘keep’* My mom swears by oxyclean for her dog messes, she also mixes it in a spray bottle and saturates the area, lets it sit, pats it up w/ a towel. Hope this helps 😉
Amber says
I have used a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and dawn dish soap. This got Merlot out of my beige carpet.
Heather Mitchell says
Old school shaving cream the white kind not the new stuff..You just spray it on and rub it in and then use a damp rag and get it up very simple and it really works…
Lucy says
Oxiclean worked for me, but test a small spot to make sure it doesn’t lighten more than the carpet. I have also saturated area in vinegar, then spinkled baking soda, generously. let dry (do not blot) then vacuum.
Andrea Sayers says
I have a steamer and looked up cleaners. I found I can use regular peroxide in it. Steams and sanitzes as well. I would think mop can do the same. Good luck
Andi