If you have kids and pets like we do, you know that cleaning around the house may sometimes require a small arsenal of cleaning products. But what if you could replace several of those with a single, effective solution like a DIY magic eraser?
It took some experimenting, but I came up with a natural, homemade magic eraser liquid that might just be your new go-to cleaning agent for tackling tough stains and scuff marks.
What is DIY Magic Eraser Liquid?
Now, if you know me in real life, you know that I'm not exactly a cleaning fanatic. However, I'm also not a fan of expensive, chemical-laden cleaners. I prefer to make what I can at a fraction of the price of store-bought cleaners.
That's why I started experimenting with DIY cleaning recipes. Our first DIY product was our pine needle kitchen cleaner.
It was a success—it smelled great and cleaned our kitchen counters without leaving a sticky residue. So, the girls and I moved on to create our all-natural toilet bombs. We even made our own homemade laundry detergent a few years ago.
How Homemade Magic Eraser Liquid Works
DIY magic eraser liquid is a homemade cleaning solution that copies the cleaning power of name-brand or generic melamine sponges. These sponges are known as magic erasers (think Mr. Clean's Magic Erasers.) However, making your own magic eraser liquid means you don't need to deal with hefty price tags.
This solution handles everything from stubborn stains on your kitchen counters to the toughest grime and soap scum in the bathroom. The magic lies in its ability to penetrate and lift the dirt of big messes at a microscopic level. However, as the Washington Post reported earlier this year, don't use them on delicate surfaces or wood.
And it doesn't need as much elbow grease as cleaning with a commercial cleaner and a regular sponge. Instead, it's like super-fine sandpaper or the tiny air pockets found in official magic eraser sponges.
What You'll Need
You'll need only a short list of expensive or hard-to-find items to make your own DIY magic eraser solution. Here's what to gather:
- Spray Bottle: A glass spray bottle is recommended for storing your DIY cleaners.
Borax: This is available at most grocery stores. It is a gentle yet effective cleaning agent that mimics the abrasiveness of melamine foam.
Distilled Vinegar: Due to its natural acidity, distilled white vinegar helps remove the biggest messes. - Water: To dilute the mixture.
- Essential Oils: Optional, for adding a pleasant scent to your cleaning mixture.
- Measuring Cup and Spoon: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Funnel: This is optional but useful for getting your mixture into the bottle without spills.
How to Make Non-Toxic Homemade Magic Eraser
Creating your DIY magic eraser liquid is straightforward and quick. Here's how you can mix your own powerful cleaning solution:
- Prepare Your Bottle: Start by making sure your spray bottle is clean and dry.
- Mix Borax and Vinegar: Measure two tablespoons of Borax and pour into the bottle using a funnel. Add 12 ounces of distilled vinegar.
- Add Water: Fill the remainder of the bottle with water, leaving a little space to mix.
- Add Essential Oils: If using essential oils, add about 20 drops of your preferred essential oil to the mixture.
- Shake Well: Secure the top of the spray bottle and shake vigorously to combine all ingredients.
This solution can be used on a variety of surfaces, including walls, floors, and other hard-to-clean areas. Always test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility.
How to Make DIY Magic Eraser Liquid
Make your own DIY magic eraser liquid with simple, natural ingredients for effective, non-toxic and inexpensive cleaning at home.
Materials
- Borax- this can be purchased at Walmart. I got mine at Rocky’s.
- Distilled Vinegar
- Essential Oil (this part is optional)
- Water
Tools
- Glass Spray Bottle
- Measuring cup and table spoon
- Funnel (optional, easier to put in the glass bottle)
Instructions
- Measure 2 Tablespoons of Borax and put in the spray bottle (using a funnel makes this easier)
- Measure 12 ounces of distilled vinegar and add that to the spray bottle
- Next fill the remainder of the bottle with water.
- Add about 20 drops of essential oil if you are using it.
- Place the top on the spray bottle and shake it up to mix all of the ingredients together.
Recommended Products
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FAQs
I know you have questions about making this cleaning solution. Here are some of the most common questions we get.
Can I Use DIY Magic Eraser Liquid on Any Surface?
It's best to avoid using this liquid on very delicate surfaces like cellphone screens, wood surfaces, or any area that might be damaged by abrasives, even at a microscopic level. And always test it out in a small, inconspicuous area first.
How Long Can I Store This Cleaning Solution?
When stored properly in a cool, dark place, the DIY magic eraser liquid does last a pretty long time. However, I found it most effective within the first six months.
Is There a Non-Vinegar Alternative for Sensitive Noses?
Yes, if the vinegar smell is too strong, go ahead and substitute it with a mild dish soap or a cup of warm water with a teaspoon of baking soda. You'll still get a potent cleaning solution but without the strong scent.
Save Money and Clean Your House
This DIY magic eraser liquid helps you save tons of money and reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the need for multiple cleaning products. Its natural ingredients also ensure you use a non-toxic product safe for your home and the environment. Try making your own batch today for just pennies and let me know how you make out!
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Rebecca
I have found vodka to be an effective substitute when scent is an issue. It doesn’t seem inexpensive but when broken down into cost per ounce it isn’t extravagant either.