How to make your own homemade cleaning spray
Homemade cleaners not only save money but also cut down on harsh chemicals, offering safer options for families, especially those with young children or pets.
With the cost of everyday household items steadily rising, more Kenyans are finding simple, affordable ways to keep their homes clean by starting with DIY cleaning sprays.
Homemade cleaners not only save money but also cut down on harsh chemicals, offering safer options for families, especially those with young children or pets. And the best part? You can whip up an effective spray using common ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
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According to homecare expert Mercy Nduta, making your own cleaner is straightforward and highly customizable.
"Most store-bought cleaners are very expensive and have strong fragrances and chemicals that can irritate the skin or trigger allergies," Nduta told The Eastleigh Voice.
"With a few basic ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, you can create a powerful, natural cleaner that works just as well."
Ingredients:
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon baking soda
10–15 drops of essential oil (like lemon, lavender, or tea tree), Optional
A clean spray bottle
Steps to follow:
Step 1:
In a large bowl or bucket, mix the water and vinegar together.
Step 2:
Add the baking soda slowly, because it will fizz a bit.
Step 3:
Stir gently and pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
Step 4:
Add essential oils for a pleasant scent, if you want, but ensure the essential oil is organic and not synthetic, especially if you have small children or pets.
Step 5:
Shake well before each use.
“This homemade spray can be used to clean countertops, bathroom surfaces, kitchen sinks, and even glass,” she says.
However, Nduta warns that vinegar-based cleaners should not be used on granite, marble, or other natural stone surfaces, as the acid can cause damage over time.
The essential oil is not a must, but simply add essential oils like lemon for a fresh, crisp scent, lavender for a calming vibe, or peppermint for an energising kick.
These natural scents not only make cleaning more enjoyable but can also offer mild antibacterial benefits, depending on the oil you choose.
How it works
Nduta says that vinegar is a natural disinfectant, while baking soda is excellent at scrubbing and deodorising.
Essential oils like tea tree oil add antimicrobial properties, making the cleaner more effective against bacteria and fungi.
As more people become environmentally conscious, interest in DIY cleaners has skyrocketed. A 2024 survey by Green Living Kenya found that nearly 45% of urban households had tried making at least one homemade cleaning product last year.
"I started making my own sprays during the pandemic when cleaning supplies were expensive and hard to find," says Nairobi resident Agnes Achieng.
"Now, it’s just part of my routine, and my house smells amazing, without that strong chemical odour. I also save a few coins on disinfectant because a whole mtungi of vinegar is very affordable."
Experts also recommend using reusable cloths instead of disposable paper towels to clean, which not only saves money but also helps reduce household waste.
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