Cleaning the Natural Way

The kitchen is the heart of every home—especially when you’re a home baker. It’s where you experiment, create, and whip up magic (like that perfectly fluffy lemon loaf cake). But how often do you think about the products you use to keep your kitchen spotless?

Many conventional cleaning products are packed with chemicals that don’t just harm the environment but can also linger on surfaces where you prepare food. For eco-conscious homemakers and bakers, finding alternatives that don’t compromise health or the planet is a priority.

But what if the solution was as simple as turning to ingredients you already have in your pantry? This post will show you how to make safe, effective, and eco-friendly kitchen cleaning products from scratch. Bonus? Most of them use ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice—the same ones you probably use in your baking!

Why Should You Ditch Conventional Cleaning Products?

1. Harmful to Health

The harsh chemicals commonly found in conventional products, such as ammonia, bleach, and phthalates, can lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, and even disrupt hormones. These can pose a serious risk, especially in households with children or pets.

2. Environmental Impact

When we wash chemicals down the drain, they don’t just disappear. Many cleaning products contribute to water pollution and harm aquatic life. Even the packaging—often made of single-use plastic—is a contributor to the growing waste problem.

3. Food and Surface Contamination

Using chemical-heavy products on surfaces where food is prepared can leave harmful residues behind. For home bakers, ensuring those surfaces are clean and toxin-free is essential.

Switching to natural alternatives not only protects your health but ensures you’re doing your part for the planet. And the best part? Homemade cleaning products are simple, affordable, and highly effective.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives for Kitchen Cleaning

Here are some easy-to-make cleaning products that work wonders for your kitchen, keeping it fresh and food-safe.

1. All-Purpose Cleaner 

This is your go-to spray for countertops, tables, and other kitchen surfaces.

Ingredients 

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• Optional: 10 drops of essential oil (like lemon or tea tree)

Steps 

1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well before use.
3. Spray onto surfaces and wipe clean with a cloth.

This mixture is great for cutting grease and removing bacteria—all with zero harmful chemicals!

2. Baking Soda Scrub 

Perfect for when your stovetop or sink needs extra attention.

Ingredients 

• ½ cup baking soda
• 2–3 tablespoons of water
• Optional: 5 drops of lavender essential oil

Steps 

1. Mix baking soda and water into a paste.
2. Apply the paste to stubborn spots, like greasy stovetops or stained sinks.
3. Scrub with a sponge and rinse thoroughly.

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) acts as a gentle abrasive cleaner, perfect for tougher messes that don’t need harsh scrubbing.

3. Citrus Degreaser 

Fight grease naturally with this zesty degreaser.

Ingredients 

• Peels of 2–3 lemons or oranges
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water

Steps 

1. Add the citrus peels to a jar and fill it with white vinegar.
2. Seal the jar and let it sit for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused vinegar into a spray bottle and dilute with water.
4. Use it to clean greasy pans, counters, or cabinets.

4. DIY Glass Cleaner 

Say goodbye to streaky glass surfaces!

Ingredients 

• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol (optional for streak-free shine)

Steps 

1. Add all ingredients to a spray bottle.
2. Spray directly on glass surfaces and wipe with a soft microfiber cloth.

5. Lemon & Salt Cutting Board Cleaner 

Keep cutting boards clean and smelling fresh.

Ingredients 

• Half a lemon
• 2 tablespoons coarse salt

Steps 

1. Sprinkle the salt onto the cutting board.
2. Use the lemon half to scrub the surface.
3. Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.

This simple mixture will deodorise and sanitise your cutting board, leaving it ready for your next baking project.

6.  Dishwasher Powder

Ingredients 

• 120g / 1 cup bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
• 190g / 1 cup citric acid
• 105g / 1 cup washing soda
• 144g / 1/2 cup table salt

Steps 

1. Mix all the powders together and keep in an airtight container.

Tips for Using and Storing Homemade Cleaning Products

Once you’ve crafted your cleaning arsenal, it’s important to use and store them properly to maximize their shelf life and effectiveness.

1. Label Everything 

Clearly label your bottles with the product name and date it was made. This prevents mix-ups and ensures you use them before they expire.

2. Store in a Cool, Dark Place 

Sunlight and heat can degrade some ingredients, such as essential oils. Store your cleaning products in a pantry or cabinet for best results.

3. Patch Test First 

Before using homemade products on surfaces such as granite or marble, do a patch test in a discreet area to ensure compatibility.

4. Shake Before Use 

Some ingredients may separate over time, so give your bottles a good shake before using the solution.

5. Use Airtight Containers 

Store your pastes in airtight jars to prevent them from hardening over time.

Bake with Love, Clean with Care

Switching to natural, homemade cleaning products doesn’t just benefit your health and the environment—it reflects a holistic approach to how you treat the spaces where you live and work. For bakers especially, keeping your kitchen toxin-free and inviting can enhance both your creativity and peace of mind.

By incorporating these eco-friendly methods, you’ll be able to clean your kitchen naturally while baking cakes that are equally natural and delicious.