7 Homemade Cleaners That Are Cheaper and Safer Than Store Brands

Store-bought cleaners can be expensive and packed with harsh chemicals. Making your own homemade cleaners saves money and cuts down on unnecessary toxins in your home. Many everyday ingredients work just as well as commercial products without the overpowering fumes or questionable additives. Plus, DIY solutions let you control exactly what goes into them, giving you a safer way to keep things spotless. Whether you’re looking to replace all-purpose sprays or deep-clean tough spots, it’s easier than you think. Try these simple, budget-friendly cleaning solutions and see the difference for yourself.

Homemade Toilet Cleaner

A glass jar labeled "Toilet Cleaner" sits on a white surface. The jar contains a white powdery substance. Beside it are two white and brown sponges, stacked. The background features a speckled gray and white pattern. — DIY homemade toilet cleaner. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Skip the harsh chemicals and keep your bathroom fresh with a simple DIY toilet cleaner. This homemade option cuts through grime while reducing exposure to unnecessary additives. A cleaner home doesn’t have to mean breathing in overpowering fumes. Learn more: Homemade Toilet Cleaner

DIY Grout Cleaner

A jar of thick white cream or paste is placed on a countertop with a terrazzo backdrop. A round wooden lid is to the left, and a rectangular sponge with a coarse, brown scrub surface is on the right. — Homemade Grout Cleaner. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Brighten up your space with an easy-to-make grout cleaner that removes buildup without the strong smell of commercial options. This homemade solution gets deep into grout lines, helping restore your tiles without unnecessary chemicals. Learn more: DIY Grout Cleaner

Homemade All Purpose Cleaner

A brown spray bottle labeled "All Purpose Cleaner" stands on a white countertop against a hexagonal tile backsplash. A green and white striped cloth is draped behind the bottle. — All Purpose Cleaner. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

A cleaner home doesn’t have to come with chemical-heavy sprays. This homemade all-purpose cleaner is a practical choice for tackling messes while keeping indoor air free from harsh fumes. Safe, effective, and easy to make, it’s a great go-to for everyday cleaning. Learn more: Homemade All Purpose Cleaner

Homemade Liquid Dish Soap

A glass jar with a black pump dispenser labeled "Dish Soap" is filled with a light-colored liquid. It is placed on a marble countertop with a sponge on a round wooden holder, set against a tiled backsplash. — Homemade Liquid Dish Soap. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Store-bought dish soaps often contain unnecessary ingredients, but this homemade version gives you a clean you can trust. This simple DIY cleaner easily cuts through grease while being gentle on your hands. Learn more: Homemade Liquid Dish Soap

Homemade Dishwasher Soap

A top view of a jar filled with white powder, possibly baking soda, placed on a white and red checkered cloth. Next to the jar is a brown scrub sponge on a white surface. — Dishwasher Powder. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Swap out commercial dishwasher detergents for an easy homemade alternative that gets the job done. This DIY dishwasher soap effectively breaks down grease and leaves dishes spotless—without relying on synthetic additives. Learn more: Homemade Dishwasher Soap

Homemade Laundry Powder

A glass jar filled with white powder sits on a white surface. A blue patterned cloth is partially visible in the background. — Homemade Laundry Soap. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Store-bought detergents often contain unnecessary fillers, but this homemade laundry powder keeps things simple. It helps remove stains and odors while giving you more control over what touches your clothes. A smart way to clean without the extra chemicals. Learn more: Homemade Laundry Powder

Homemade Foaming Hand Wash

A clear soap dispenser with a white pump sits on a counter in front of a gray and white checkered cloth, against a white tiled wall. — Foaming Hand Soap. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

A homemade foaming hand wash is a great way to keep hands clean while skipping unnecessary ingredients. This DIY version lathers up nicely and leaves hands feeling fresh without artificial fragrances. A small switch that makes everyday hand washing better. Learn more: Homemade Foaming Hand Wash