3 Non-Toxic DIY Cleaners That Are Safe for Kids (and Actually Work)
Because keeping your home clean shouldn’t come with a health warning—especially for women and our babies.
Let’s Talk About What’s Actually in Our Cleaning Products
Before I had kids, I never paid much attention to what was in my cleaning supplies. I’d walk down the aisle, pick the brand my momma used to use growing up, and feel like I was doing my job as a “clean” mama. But once I started digging into the ingredients—and especially how they affect us—I couldn’t unsee it.
Did you know:
Over 50% of household cleaners contain ingredients linked to lung and hormone disruption?
Fragrance is considered a trade secret—so companies don’t have to tell you what’s in it (hint: it’s often endocrine-disrupting phthalates)?
That hit hard.
I realized that switching to non-toxic products wasn’t just a “clean girl aesthetic”—it was about protecting my family. And as a mom, it’s personal. This post is part of my Toxins & Black Women’s Health series, where I break down real solutions that actually make a difference.
Why DIY Cleaners Are Worth It
I know “DIY” can sound like a lot. But these recipes are:
Quick (we’re talking 5 minutes or less)
Cheap (you probably already have the ingredients)
Customizable (no more overpowering fake scents)
Safe (especially for little hands and growing bodies)
Whether you're looking to cut costs, reduce toxins, or just feel more in control of your home environment, these cleaners are a great place to start.
1. DIY All-Purpose Cleaner Spray
This is the spray I use on everything—from kitchen counters to the baby’s high chair to the bathroom sink.
Ingredients:
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup distilled water
10 drops lemon essential oil
5 drops lavender or tea tree oil (optional)
Note: Don’t use vinegar-based products on granite or marble—it can etch natural stone.
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle.
Shake before each use.
Spray and wipe down surfaces with a microfiber cloth.
Why I Love It:
Lemon oil adds natural degreasing power.
Tea tree oil gives it antibacterial strength.
It’s safe to use multiple times a day—no gloves needed.
2. Foaming Hand Soap (Gentle for Babies Too)
Store-bought soap often includes artificial dyes, sulfates, and parabens. This version is super gentle and moisturizing too.
Ingredients:
¼ cup unscented castile soap (like Dr. Bronner’s)
¾ cup distilled water
1 tsp fractionated coconut oil
10 drops essential oil (I love lavender + peppermint)
Instructions:
Add ingredients to a foaming soap dispenser.
Swirl gently to mix (don’t shake—it’ll get too bubbly).
Why I Love It:
My kids can wash their hands without drying them out.
No overpowering scent—just a clean, herbal vibe.
You can refill it over and over again for pennies.
3. Toilet Bombs That Fizz and Freshen
These little fizzies are perfect for refreshing your bathroom without bleach or harsh fumes.
Ingredients:
1 cup baking soda
¼ cup citric acid
15 drops tea tree oil
10 drops eucalyptus or lemon oil
Water in a spray bottle
Instructions:
Mix baking soda + citric acid in a bowl.
Slowly mist with water until the mixture sticks together (like wet sand).
Press into silicone molds and let dry overnight.
Drop 1–2 in the toilet when needed.
Why I Love It:
No bleach, no fumes, no hidden mystery ingredients.
Fun for the kids to help make.
Leaves the bathroom smelling fresh with zero effort.
Don’t Feel Like DIY-ing? I Got You.
Let’s be honest—sometimes you just don’t have the time or mental energy to mix and pour. That doesn’t mean you have to settle for toxic store brands.
Here are non-toxic cleaning brands I trust that work just as well (or better):
Blueland
💧 Refillable cleaner tablets
♻️ Less plastic, lower waste
🌿 Beautiful packaging & non-toxic formulas
👉 Shop Blueland →
Branch Basics
🧪 One bottle of concentrate = all-purpose, laundry, glass + more
🌿 Plant-based, no fragrance, family-safe
👉 Shop Branch Basics →
Force of Nature
⚡ Converts salt + vinegar into an EPA-registered disinfectant
🛡️ Kills 99.9% of germs, including viruses
👉 Shop Force of Nature →
Truly Free
🧺 Non-toxic laundry, dish, and home products
💚 Fragrance-free options and refillable containers
👉 Shop Truly Free →
These are great options if you're easing into a cleaner lifestyle without wanting to mix your own formulas.
Tools That Make It Easy
Here’s what I keep on hand to make cleaning safer and simpler:
Final Thoughts: We Deserve Safer Homes
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about taking small steps that protect your body, your family, and your peace of mind. Cleaning should never come at the expense of our health.
So whether you’re ready to DIY or prefer to shop clean, know that every swap counts.
