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.

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.

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!