Whenever cleaning supplies are on my grocery list I know it’s going to be an expensive outing. That became even more so when I switched from the mainstream brands to those that were more natural. So I started looking into making my own and found that with some basic pantry staples, including vinegar, a lot of things could be make including this easy DIY All-Purpose Cleaner. The thing is though, I barely want my pickles to smell like vinegar so I certainly don’t want my house to smell that way.

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner |Bistro OneSix

Download the label template here

So why the vinegar anyway?

According to The Kitchn, white vinegar is a natural disinfectant. It contains 5% acetic acid, which has antimicrobial properties. It’s also great at cutting through grease and grime, so it’s perfect for cleaning kitchen surfaces like stovetops, tables, and counters. This is a great cleaner for nearly every surface, with the exception of soft stones, like marble countertops.

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner | Bistro OneSix

And why essential oils?

It’s not too hard to figure out why the essential oils are part of the recipe but they go beyond just being a pretty smell. Many oils pack an extra antibacterial punch as well. Solid choices include:

• Lemongrass
• Eucalyptus
• Peppermint
• Citrus – Lemon, Grapefruit, Wild Orange
• Cinnamon
• Tea tree
• Clove
• Lavender

If you’re going the DIY route to avoid toxins make sure the essential oils you are using are non-synthetic or you’re defeating the purpose. I personally like doTerra.

I chose Wild Orange for my DIY All-Purpose cleaner. Sure I like how it smells but it’s also a scent known to re-energize and how great would it be to be invigorated after cleaning the house!

DIY All Purpose Cleaner
Author: 
Serves: 8 oz
 
Ingredients
  • ½ cup distilled white vinegar
  • ½ cup water
  • 8-10 drops essential oil
Instructions
  1. Mix all ingredients in an 8 oz glass bottle with sprayer.
  2. Shake vigorously before using to incorporate the essential oils into the mixture.

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner | Bistro OneSix