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    Home » Best Of

    28 Sustainable Home Essentials That Save The Planet And Your Budget

    Sarita Harbour.
    Modified: May 4, 2025 by Sarita Harbour · This post may contain affiliate links·
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    Cleaning doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals or endless plastic waste. Sustainable home essentials for cleaning can get the job done with fewer ingredients, less packaging, and no questionable additives. Simple swaps like reusable cloths, natural disinfectants, and refillable cleaners make a big difference over time. They’re better for indoor air quality, safer for pets and kids, and often cost less in the long run. If you're looking for effective cleaning solutions that are easy on both the environment and your budget, this list is a great place to start.

    How to Make Citric Acid Toilet Cleaner

    A white bath bomb sits on a surface surrounded by dried lavender sprigs.Pin
    How to Make Citric Acid Toilet Cleaner. Photo credit: Milk Glass Home & Kitchen.

    Scrubbing toilets isn’t fun, but this citric acid cleaner makes it quick and easy. It cuts through hard water stains and buildup, so you can spend less time scrubbing and more time doing literally anything else. A no-nonsense way to keep your bathroom fresh.
    Read the Article: How to Make Citric Acid Toilet Cleaner

    DIY Beeswax Furniture Polish Recipe

    Open glass jar containing a light-colored cream on a wooden surface, with a lid and a cloth beside it.Pin
    DIY Beeswax Furniture Polish Recipe. Photo credit: The Herbeevore.

    Your wooden furniture deserves better than mystery-ingredient sprays. This beeswax polish gives it a clean finish and a little extra protection, all without synthetic junk. A solid pick for keeping surfaces looking their best.
    Read the Article: DIY Beeswax Furniture Polish Recipe

    DIY Stain Remover

    A small glass bottle with a black cap containing light yellow liquid is placed on a surface with a white cloth in the background.Pin
    DIY Stain Remover. Photo credit: Simply Designing.

    Life’s messy, but your laundry doesn’t have to be. This DIY stain remover works on clothes, carpets, and more, kicking stains to the curb without the usual chemical overload. A must-have for handling spills like a pro.
    Read the Article: DIY Stain Remover

    How to Make Your Own Liquid Laundry Detergent

    A pump dispenser labeled "Laundry Soap" stands on a surface with a yellow fabric featuring a white floral pattern draped around it. A white tiled wall is in the background.Pin
    How to Make Your Own Liquid Laundry Detergent. Photo credit: Two Kids and a Coupon.

    Store-bought detergent is expensive, full of fillers, and totally unnecessary. This homemade liquid version cleans just as well, saves money, and keeps things simple. A solid win for fresh laundry without extra nonsense.
    Read the Article: How to Make Your Own Liquid Laundry Detergent

    Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe

    A large glass jar filled with white powder is placed on a dark surface. Several beige wooden clothespins are scattered nearby, against a wooden backdrop.Pin
    Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Say goodbye to overpriced detergents and hello to clean clothes without the chemicals. This DIY recipe is easy, effective, and way cheaper than the stuff at the store. Your laundry—and your wallet—will thank you.
    Read the Article: Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe

    How to Make Homemade All Natural Dishwasher Pods

    A potted plant, a glass jar of white marshmallows, and an orange cloth sit on a wooden surface against a white background.Pin
    How to Make Homemade All Natural Dishwasher Pods. Photo credit: Homestead How-To.

    Sparkling dishes without mystery ingredients? Yes, please. These DIY dishwasher pods fight grease and grime without unnecessary fillers, making them a smart switch for clean plates and peace of mind.
    Read the Article: How to Make Homemade All Natural Dishwasher Pods

    Homemade Dishwasher Rinse Aid for Spot-Free Dishes

    A bottle labeled "Dishwasher Rinse Aid" on a marble surface, with colorful patterns on the packaging.Pin
    Homemade Dishwasher Rinse Aid for Spot-Free Dishes. Photo credit: Happy Simple Living.

    Hard water spots don’t stand a chance against this simple rinse aid. It leaves your dishes shining without adding anything questionable to your wash cycle. A great way to keep things simple and streak-free.
    Read the Article: Homemade Dishwasher Rinse Aid for Spot-Free Dishes

    DIY Homemade Wood Butter Recipe

    A mason jar filled with homemade mayonnaise sits on a wooden table next to a blue cloth.Pin
    DIY Homemade Wood Butter Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Your wooden spoons and cutting boards have seen some things. This wood butter keeps them from drying out and cracking, all while using ingredients you can actually pronounce. A small step for better kitchen tools.
    Read the Article: DIY Homemade Wood Butter Recipe

    Pine Vinegar DIY Kitchen Cleaner

    A jar filled with pine needles and liquid, sealed with a metal lid, placed on a wooden surface.Pin
    Pine Vinegar DIY Kitchen Cleaner. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    If your kitchen is covered in fingerprints and cooking splatters, this pine vinegar cleaner has your back. It cuts through grease and grime while leaving behind a fresh, natural scent. No fake fragrances required.
    Read the Article: Pine Vinegar DIY Kitchen Cleaner

    3 Microwave Cleaning Hacks That You Need To Try

    Modern kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and an island with two stools. Light wood flooring and recessed lighting complete the space.Pin
    3 Microwave Cleaning Hacks That You Need To Try. Photo credit: Microwave Meal Prep.

    Your microwave has probably seen some horror stories, but these cleaning tricks make it look new again. No chemical sprays, no endless scrubbing—just a few simple steps to tackle the mess.
    Read the Article: 3 Microwave Cleaning Hacks That You Need To Try

    Homemade DIY Toilet Cleaning Bombs

    An open glass jar on a wooden table, containing several white, hexagonal sugar cubes with a few scattered outside.Pin
    Homemade DIY Toilet Cleaning Bombs. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Drop one in, walk away, and let it handle the mess—these toilet cleaning bombs do the work for you. They fizz away buildup and odors without the harsh stuff, making bathroom cleaning way less of a hassle.
    Read the Article: Homemade DIY Toilet Cleaning Bombs

    Beeswax Furniture Polish Recipe: How to Make Your Own

    A glass jar filled with creamy, yellow ghee sits next to a textured gray cloth, with green foliage blurred in the background.Pin
    Beeswax Furniture Polish Recipe: How to Make Your Own. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Furniture polish shouldn’t smell like a chemical factory. This beeswax-based version protects and shines wood without weird ingredients. Your furniture will look great, and your nose won’t regret it.
    Read the Article: Beeswax Furniture Polish Recipe: How to Make Your Own

    Homemade Furniture Wood Polish Spray

    A hand is wiping a wooden surface with a yellow cloth.Pin
    Homemade Furniture Wood Polish Spray. Photo credit: Desert Naturals.

    Dusty, dull furniture? Not anymore. This homemade polish spray brings back the shine without coating everything in artificial fragrances. A quick way to keep your home looking sharp.
    Read the Article: Homemade Furniture Wood Polish Spray

    How to Make Homemade Tallow Laundry Soap

    A large jar of white powder with a measuring cup of the same powder on a granite countertop. The background features a multicolored tile backsplash.Pin
    How to Make Homemade Tallow Laundry Soap. Photo credit: A Hint of Homestead.

    Tallow soap has been keeping clothes clean for generations, and for good reason. It’s tough on dirt, gentle on fabric, and skips the unnecessary additives. A simple classic that still gets the job done.
    Read the Article: How to Make Homemade Tallow Laundry Soap

    Fizzy Homemade Toilet Cleaner

    A glass jar filled with white cubes sits on a wooden surface, accompanied by an amber bottle with an orange label.Pin
    Fizzy Homemade Toilet Cleaner. Photo credit: Simply Designing.

    These fizzy toilet cleaners make scrubbing a thing of the past. Just drop one in and let it bubble away grime and odors—no gloves required. A low-effort way to keep things fresh.
    Read the Article: Fizzy Homemade Toilet Cleaner

    How to Make Homemade Orange Cleaner

    A jar filled with orange peels next to a brown spray bottle on a wooden surface. A potted plant is in the background.Pin
    How to Make Homemade Orange Cleaner. Photo credit: The Sage Saver.

    If your counters could use a refresh, this citrus-infused cleaner has you covered. It fights grease and leaves behind a clean, fresh scent without fake fragrances. Kitchen messes don’t stand a chance.
    Read the Article: How to Make Homemade Orange Cleaner

    Four Thieves Vinegar

    Aerial view of a glass with leaves, a green book, and a wooden scoop on a wooden surface. Copper measuring spoons are placed nearby.Pin
    Four Thieves Vinegar. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    This old-school vinegar blend has been used for centuries to keep homes fresh and clean. It’s packed with natural ingredients that cut through grime without synthetic fillers. A simple way to bring back a tried-and-true cleaning method.
    Read the Article: Four Thieves Vinegar

    Easy 3-Ingredient DIY Glass Cleaner Recipe

    Glass spray bottle filled with liquid, placed on an orange cloth, with a lemon and wooden beads beside it, against a plain background.Pin
    Easy 3-Ingredient DIY Glass Cleaner Recipe. Photo credit: Kateable .

    Store-bought glass cleaners are full of things you can’t pronounce. This three-ingredient version wipes away streaks and smudges with zero mystery chemicals. Clean windows, no nonsense.
    Read the Article: Easy 3-Ingredient DIY Glass Cleaner Recipe

    Easy 3-Ingredient DIY Soft Scrub Recipe

    A jar of white liquid on a wooden surface with a green potted plant, orange cloth, dish brush, and lemon.Pin
    Easy 3-Ingredient DIY Soft Scrub Recipe. Photo credit: Kateable.

    Scrubbing your sink shouldn’t require a hazmat suit. This DIY soft scrub tackles grime with just three ingredients you probably already have. A simple fix for a clean kitchen and bath.
    Read the Article: Easy 3-Ingredient DIY Soft Scrub Recipe

    How to Make Powder Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

    Glass jar filled with white cream is placed on a white surface surrounded by a yellow patterned cloth.Pin
    How to Make Powder Homemade Dishwasher Detergent. Photo credit: Two Kids and a Coupon.

    Skip the pricey detergents and make your own. This powder cuts through grease and leaves dishes sparkling—no sketchy additives required. A smart choice for cleaner plates without the extra cost.
    Read the Article: How to Make Powder Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

    DIY All Purpose Cleaner

    A bottle of blue dish soap, a blue spray bottle labeled "All Purpose Cleaner," and a jug of white vinegar are side by side on a white surface.Pin
    DIY All Purpose Cleaner. Photo credit: Nifty Thrifty DIYer.

    One bottle, endless uses. This DIY all-purpose cleaner works on just about everything, cutting through messes without adding artificial junk to your home. Simple, effective, and way cheaper than store-bought options.
    Read the Article: DIY All Purpose Cleaner

    Homemade Citrus Laundry Wash and Vinegar Cleaner

    A glass jar with a red and white checkered lid contains sliced peaches in syrup on a white surface.Pin
    Homemade Citrus Laundry Wash and Vinegar Cleaner. Photo credit: Homestead Lady.

    Laundry detergent doesn’t need a long ingredient list. This citrus-infused wash freshens clothes while skipping the synthetic stuff. A better way to clean your laundry and keep things smelling fresh.
    Read the Article: Homemade Citrus Laundry Wash and Vinegar Cleaner

    How to Make Your Own Homemade DIY Magic Eraser Liquid

    A spray bottle with a label "Liquid Magic Eraser" is placed next to a wooden bowl containing lemons and greenery, and a folded beige towel.Pin
    How to Make Your Own Homemade DIY Magic Eraser Liquid. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Store-bought magic erasers work, but what’s actually in them? This DIY liquid version gets rid of scuffs and stains without the mystery. A handy trick for tackling messes with ingredients you trust.
    Read the Article: How to Make Your Own Homemade DIY Magic Eraser Liquid

    How to Remove Hard Water Stains from Glass Shower Doors

    Shower stall with a glass door, patterned towel hanging inside, and a cleaning product on the ledge.Pin
    How to Remove Hard Water Stains from Glass Shower Doors. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

    Hard water stains make your shower look worse than it is, but this method clears them up fast. No harsh chemicals, no endless scrubbing—just clean, clear glass. A simple fix for a frustrating problem.
    Read the Article: How to Remove Hard Water Stains from Glass Shower Doors

    DIY Stain Remover

    A hand holds a spoonful of blue liquid from a small container above a yellow and white surface with text reading, "Dreams Established 1850 Paradise Let's Go to California.Pin
    DIY Stain Remover. Photo credit: Nifty Thrifty DIYer.

    Some stains seem impossible, but this DIY remover proves otherwise. It lifts spots from clothes, carpets, and more without the chemical overload. A lifesaver for messy moments.
    Read the Article: DIY Stain Remover

    Lemon Orange Peel and Vinegar Cleaner

    A bottle labeled "Homemade Vinegar Cleaner" sits on a marble surface, surrounded by a lemon, an orange, and another lemon, against a white brick background.Pin
    Lemon Orange Peel and Vinegar Cleaner. Photo credit: Happy Simple Living.

    Stop tossing those citrus peels—put them to work. This homemade cleaner fights grease and freshens surfaces while keeping waste to a minimum. A smart way to clean and reuse at the same time.
    Read the Article: Lemon Orange Peel and Vinegar Cleaner

    DIY Homemade Carpet Powder Cleaner

    A hand holding a spoon scoops white powder from a jar labeled "carpet freshener" placed on a fluffy carpet.Pin
    DIY Homemade Carpet Powder Cleaner. Photo credit: Desert Naturals.

    If your carpet smells less than fresh, this DIY powder has your back. It absorbs odors and freshens up rugs without the artificial junk in store-bought versions. A quick fix for musty rooms.
    Read the Article: DIY Homemade Carpet Powder Cleaner

    DIY Shower Cleaner

    Clear spray bottle on a wooden surface, next to a small potted plant and a green folded cloth with lavender sprigs. Background features white wooden panels.Pin
    DIY Shower Cleaner. Photo credit: Homestead How-To.

    Showers get gross fast, but this DIY cleaner makes upkeep easy. It cuts through soap scum without the overpowering chemical smell. A simple way to keep things fresh without the hassle.
    Read the Article: DIY Shower Cleaner

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    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

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