How to Make a Natural, All-Purpose Cleaning Spray

A natural, all-purpose cleaning spray should be the first item on your list of green cleaners to make. It can be used for wiping down countertops, cleaning the bathroom and essentially disinfecting any hard surface in the home. I have used my homemade all-purpose spray for cleaning many different surfaces and, while it may smell pretty strong with the eucalyptus oil option, it doesn't contain the harmful chemicals used in many commercial cleaners.

Items you will need:

~empty spray bottle
~1 tsp. Borax
~2 c. warm water
~2 Tbsp. distilled white vinegar
~1/2 tsp. mild liquid dish soap
~5 drops rosemary essential oil, or
~5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
~10 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the Borax in warm water. You can either mix the two together directly in the spray bottle and shake it to combine, or you can combine them together in a bowl. It depends on whatever works best for you.

2. Mix in the remaining ingredients. Stir them together or shake the spray bottle to combine everything together. If you mixed the ingredients in a bowl, pour the mixture into your spray bottle now. Wipe the outside of the bottle clean.

3. Shake well before each use. Simply spray your green, homemade all-purpose cleaner onto any hard surface and wipe it clean. Let it sit for ten minutes on hard-to-clean surfaces.

That's all there is to it. It's quick, easy and very inexpensive -- not to mention, healthier for you and the environment.

Where can I buy a spray bottle?

Empty spray bottles are typically inexpensive. I have seen them at both Family Dollar and at Target (near the travel-size toiletries) for a dollar apiece. The bottles from Target are pretty small and sometimes the nozzles don't work very well, depending on the type you get -- they have several options available. The bottles at Family Dollar are definitely worth their cost. You can also get larger spray bottles in the cleaning section at most retail stores,or you can order them online.

If you are planning to make your own green cleaners from now on, you will want to start out with a natural, all-purpose cleaner like this one. The eucalyptus oil option can really give it a harsh odor, but since it doesn't contain toxic ingredients, it is much safer for your family and healthier for the environment.

Related Content:
Healthier Alternatives to Floor Cleaners
Top Green Bathroom Cleaners on the Market
Healthier Solutions for Whitening Clothes and Disinfecting Surfaces

** Note: Although natural, homemade cleaners are safe to use for household tasks, be sure to keep them out of reach from children and pets.