DIY Natural Cleaning Sprays That Actually Work
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Make DIY cleaning sprays that actually works. Simple, non-toxic recipes plus my asthma-friendly disinfecting routine using Force of Nature.
If you’ve been searching for a DIY cleaning spray that actually works – not just something “natural,” but something that cleans real messes – you’re in the right place. These simple, non-toxic cleaning sprays are affordable, low-waste, and gentle enough for sensitive lungs.
Some people look for DIY cleaning sprays because they want to avoid chemicals. Personally, I would lover to Clorox everything, but I have severe asthma and have ended up on steroids from cleaning fumes before. I use these recipes every day on our little farm, and they’ve been a game changer for my severe asthma. I stick to homemade cleaners for everyday cleaning and use Force of Nature for disinfecting. It’s the only disinfectant I’ve found that doesn’t trigger my lungs.
Below, I’m sharing the exact sprays I use, including my lemon- and orange-infused cleaners, plus how I safely handle disinfecting without harsh fumes.
Why Make Your Own DIY Cleaning Spray?
Natural homemade cleaners are becoming more popular, but they’re more than just a trend – they’re practical, budget-friendly, and effective.
Benefits of DIY natural cleaners:
- Non-toxic and safe for sensitive lungs
- Budget-friendly (usually under $2 to make)
- Low-waste—reuse citrus peels and bottles
- Actually clean grease, grime, and everyday messes
- Customizable scents from citrus, herbs, or essential oils
- Great for intentional, cozy, homestead living
Commercial cleaners often rely on strong synthetic fragrances, harsh chemicals, or aerosols that linger in the air. For many people, especially those with asthma or allergies, DIY cleaners can be a safer option.
DIY Lemon Peel Cleaning Spray (My Everyday Go-To)
This is the DIY cleaning spray I reach for constantly. It cuts grease, deodorizes, and leaves behind a light, fresh scent that doesn’t linger or trigger asthma.
Ingredients
- Peels from 2–3 lemons
- White vinegar
- Water
- Mason jar
- Spray bottle
- Optional: 5–10 drops essential oil (lemon, lavender, tea tree)
Instructions
- Add lemon peels to a mason jar until it’s half full.
- Cover completely with white vinegar.
- Seal and let steep 1–3 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain the liquid into a spray bottle (If using a citrus essential oil you need to use a glass spray bottle)
- Dilute 1:1 with water.
- Add essential oil if desired.
Best Uses
- Kitchen counters
- Sinks + faucets
- Stove top
- Refrigerator shelves
- Bathroom surfaces
- General daily cleaning
(Avoid on natural stone.)
DIY Orange Peel Cleaning Spray (Bright + Degreasing)
If you prefer a sweeter, brighter scent, orange peels make an excellent DIY cleaning spray that cuts through sticky messes.
Ingredients
- Peels from 3–4 oranges
- White distilled vinegar
- Water
- Mason jar
- Spray bottle
- Optional: sweet orange essential oil
Instructions
- Fill a jar halfway with orange peels.
- Cover with vinegar.
- Seal and steep 1–2 weeks.
- Strain into a spray bottle (Again, a glass spray bottle if you use citrus essential oils)
- Mix half infused vinegar, half water.
- Add essential oil if desired.
Best Uses
- Stove tops
- Trash cans
- Cabinet fronts
- Microwave
- Sticky spills
(Avoid natural stone.)
DIY Degreaser Cleaning Spray
Great for greasy cabinets, stovetops, and baked-on messes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1 tbsp dish soap
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and shake gently.
Use For
- Stovetops
- Oven door
- Greasy fingerprints
- Cabinet fronts
- Removing soap scum from shower doors
DIY Castile Soap All-Purpose Spray
A gentle, fragrance-flexible option that’s great for families, pets, or scent-sensitive cleaning.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tbsp castile soap
- 10 drops essential oil (optional)
Instructions
Stir gently and pour into a spray bottle.
Use For
- General daily cleaning
- Sticky messes
- Table tops
- High-touch areas
How I Disinfect Safely With Force of Nature (Asthma-Friendly)
While DIY cleaning sprays work beautifully for everyday cleaning, vinegar is not a disinfectant.
So when someone is sick, when I handle raw eggs, or when I’m cleaning high-touch surfaces, I switch to Force of Nature—the only disinfectant I’ve found that doesn’t trigger asthma.
What Is Force of Nature?
It uses:
- water
- vinegar
- salt
- electricity
to create hypochlorous acid, a hospital-grade disinfectant.
Why I Use It:
- Doesn’t smell like bleach
- No synthetic fragrance
- No harsh fumes
- No lung irritation
- EPA-registered to kill 99.9% of germs
- Safe on food surfaces, pet areas, and baby items
Where I Use It
- Cutting boards
- Doorknobs + light switches
- Bathroom disinfecting
- Trash cans
- Phones
- Pet areas
- When someone is sick
- Kitchen after handling eggs
DIY cleaning spray = cleaning.
Force of Nature = disinfecting.
This combo keeps my home both clean and safe for my lungs.
Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Cleaning Sprays
Is a DIY cleaning spray antibacterial?
No. Vinegar cleans but does not disinfect. Use Force of Nature or another EPA-registered disinfectant for germs.
Can I use these citrus cleaners on granite or marble?
No. Avoid vinegar on natural stone. It can etch the surface.
How long does a DIY cleaning spray last?
Infused vinegar cleaners last 3–6 months.
Is it safe around kids and pets?
Yes – these homemade cleaners contain no harsh chemicals.
Does Force of Nature smell strong?
It has a very faint “clean pool” scent that disappears quickly. No heavy fragrance.
My Simple Cleaning Routine
- Morning: quick wipe-down with lemon peel spray
- Afternoon: castile soap spray for sticky or greasy spots
- Evening: Force of Nature on high-touch surfaces
- Weekly: degreaser for the stove and cabinets
Switching to DIY cleaning sprays has been a game-changer for my home, not just for my wallet, but for my lungs. Making my own cleaners gives me control over what I’m breathing, touching, and using every day. These recipes are simple enough for anyone, effective enough for real-life messes, and flexible enough to build into your routine. And when I need something stronger for disinfecting, Force of Nature fills that gap without overwhelming fumes. If you’re looking for a gentler, more intentional way to clean, DIY sprays are a great place to start.
