Every single time I replace a toxic, chemical-laden commercial household or beauty product for a clean, green and natural homemade product, I do a little happy dance. It’s a great feeling! This cleaning paste is no exception. I use it to clean my toilets, sinks and showers. I also use it to clean porcelain mugs that have discoloured from tea and coffee. A soft dishcloth and a little scrubbing power is all it takes!
Cleaning Paste
Makes: 245 g Prep time: < 5 min.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup | 140 g sodium bicarbonate (bicarb)
- 1/4 cup | 65 g liquid castile soap
- 2 tbsp fine salt
- 30 drops of essential oils
- 1 tsp hydrogen peroxide 3% (per use)
My Choice of Essential Oils
My favourite essential oils in this recipe are lemon and clove, but don’t be limited by my suggestions. Use oils that fit your budget, or those that you already have in your collection. Read here for more information on essential oils.
Method
Add all ingredients (except for hydrogen peroxide) into a jar or container (with lid) and mix until combined.
To Use
Add 1 tablespoon of paste and hydrogen peroxide to a bowl, and mix until combined. Apply to surface and scrub with a cleaning cloth. Rinse with water and polish with a clean, dry cloth.
Recipe Notes
Adding hydrogen peroxide adds a disinfecting boost to your paste, however, it can be omitted if you don’t have it handy.
If your paste is too dry, add a little extra liquid castile soap and mix.
23 Comments
I found this recipe in your book (which I love) and immediately used it, but I found it has left scratches on my stainless steel. I am assuming that the salt is too coarse. I used iodised table salt, which is what I had in my cupboard. Would you have any recommendations about which salt works in this recipe? I’ve looked around for salt labelled ‘fine’ but I’m not finding much, and would really appreciate your advice.
Thank you 🙂
Hey Kate, do you have a blender, bullet, Thermomix? Any of those appliances will grind your salt to be fine (if you’re unable to purchase finely milled salt). I have never had any issues with scratching, so you must have been using some pretty rough salt! Good luck, and glad you love my book! 🙂
I made this paste and was a little sceptical as I didn’t think it would clean very well. I was surprised at how well it cleaned and the combination of oils left everything smelling fresh and clean. I will be using this in the future.
This stuff is amazing. Even my natural product doubting husband will grab this over anything else for tough cleaning power!!
Cleaning made easy, what more could anyone ask for?
I love this recipe, definitely one of my favourites.
Thanks Krissy
This is my absolute favourite recipe! My Mum used to use Jif to clean the bathroom, shower, everything, so I grew up using it too. When I switched to all natural I never thought I could find anything that cleans a million times better, I could easily and cheaply make a cleaning paste myself, with no toxic chemicals! My bathroom looks cleaner than Jif ever made it. I adore this recipe! ❤️ Thank you Krissy!
I just want to say a huge thank you for sharing this recipe. It works great on almost every surface at home, and it was quick, easy to make.
I tried a few other recipes before finding yours and ended up with cement mixes that couldn’t be used, but yours is perfect. Thank you!
This is so awesome to read, thanks so much for sharing Amber! xx
Hi there, is this ok to use on an induction top stove or would it scratch the glass. I have used gumption before but would rather use something less chemical. Thanks
I use it on my induction top. Test a small area if you’re worried (but I can’t imagine it is any more abrasive than what you were using).
What would the shelf-life be of this product? Thanks
Hi Natalie,
I share info on preservatives, shelf life and safety here > https://krissyballinger.com.au/blog/preservatives-shelf-life-and-safety-information/ but I usually get a few months from this one.
I beg to differ on the essential oil comment about omitting them, as you can use particular essential oils that have disinfectant and cleaning properties that are great!
Hi Rachael, I mention omitting the Hydrogen Peroxide, not the essential oils – is that what you’re referring to? Although, now that you mention it, oils are a wonderful addition, but not actually essential in this recipe.
I take it the essential oils do nothing apart from make it smell nice, so I guess they can be left out?
They can be left out, yes.
Are you able to use Dr. Bronner Castile Liquid Soap and omit the essential oils?
Yes, absolutely.
Can it be made in advance!
Yes, but don’t mix the hydrogen peroxide in until you need to use it.
Can you confirm whether you add the hydrogen peroxide to the other ingredients or use it separately / in addition to the finished paste mixture?
Should we wear gloves whilst using this paste?
By the way, I love your products, have made quite a few and also given some as gifts.
Hey Marina, the hydrogen peroxide is required per use, as mentioned in the ingredients list. Gloves aren’t necessary but if you suffer from dry hands, it’s always preferable to avoid irritation. Thanks so much for the gorgeous compliment, I love to hear that people are making their own natural gifts! x