4 DIY natural cleaning products

Whether you're concerned about saving the environment or just savings, plant-based cleaning products are suitable for anyone who wants to simplify their lives and save money. Here are four easy-to-make mixtures you can try right now.

What you'll need:

• 250 g (1 cup) baking soda
• 10 drops of each of the following essential oils: cinnamon, grapefruit, thyme and rosemary

Instructions:

1. Mix ingredients and store in an airtight glass jar.
2. Let sit a few days before use.
3. Apply the powder with a wet cloth and rinse thoroughly.
4. Sprinkle in the toilet bowl, then spray with the multi-purpose vinegar spray.
5. Wait for the effervescent reaction before brushing and flushing it away.

With this product, traces of dirt and fingerprints on refrigerators and washing machines disappear.

What you'll need:

• 30 ml (2 tbsp.) phosphate-free dishwashing liquid
• 15 g (1 tbsp.) corn flour
• 250 ml (1 cup) water
• 250 ml (1 cup) white distilled vinegar
• A few drops of your favourite essential oil

Instructions: 

1. Mix the ingredients in a plastic spray bottle, shaking gently.
2. Spray a thin layer and wipe with a soft cloth.

Use this spray, a powerful anti-fungal, in the bathroom.

What you'll need:

• 10 g (2 tsp.) borax
• 250 ml (1 cup) hot water
• 15 ml (1 tbsp.) melaleuca essential oil
• 10 drops of clove essential oil

Instructions: 

1. In a spray bottle, dissolve borax in hot water.
2. Add essential oils and shake.
3. Spray on parts subject to mold and let dry.

This slightly abrasive product is perfect for baths, sinks, countertops or appliances in stainless steel, but is not suitable for bathroom elements made from fibreglass.

What you'll need:

• 125 g (½ cup) baking soda
• 25 or 30 g (5 or 6 tsp.) liquid castile soap or detergent without phosphates
• 2 ml (½ tsp.) lemon essential oil (or your favourite essential oil)
• 5 g (1 tsp.) glycerine

Instructions:

1. Mix the ingredients.
2. Keep in an airtight glass jar.
3. Use a small amount on a cloth or sponge.
4. Rinse and dry.

Plant-based cleaning products contain cleaning agents, as well as plants and essential oils that leave a fresh clean scent.