Modern households are shifting toward eco-friendly cleaning methods that rely on natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals. Not only are these alternatives safer for your health, but they are also budget-friendly and just as effective. From freshening up your living room to deep-cleaning your kitchen, natural cleaning solutions can transform your home without filling it with synthetic fragrances or toxic residues.
To prove how powerful these methods can be, two professional cleaners—Deep Johal, owner of Sunny Side Clean Team, and Jon Riding, founder of Evergreen Cleaning Company—share their favorite cleaning hacks. Each technique uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or refrigerator. Let’s explore how you can clean smarter, save money, and enjoy a healthier home environment.
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Deodorize Carpets and Furniture With Baking Soda
Carpets, couches, and mattresses naturally trap odors from cooking, pets, and everyday living. Unfortunately, standard air fresheners only mask these smells rather than eliminate them. Professional cleaner Deep Johal relies on baking soda, one of the most versatile natural cleaning agents.
To refresh soft surfaces, he sprinkles a generous amount of baking soda over the fabric, lets it sit for at least 20 minutes, and then vacuums it up using a HEPA-filtered vacuum. For heavier odors, leaving the powder overnight works even better.
This simple yet effective method neutralizes lingering smells without artificial perfumes. According to Johal, “This technique makes the house smell fresh and clean, with no toxic residues left behind.”
Tackle Kitchen Messes With Baking Soda and Lemon
Greasy stovetops, stained sinks, and food spills are everyday kitchen battles. Johal’s go-to solution is a homemade scrub made from baking soda, lemon juice, and a splash of warm water. The paste has a mild abrasive texture, perfect for lifting stubborn grease and grime.
The baking soda acts as a natural cleaner that scrubs away buildup, while the acidity of the lemon works as a disinfectant. Together, they restore stainless steel sinks, refrigerators, and countertops to a spotless shine.
As an added bonus, the fresh citrus scent leaves the kitchen smelling naturally clean—an uplifting alternative to harsh chemical sprays.
Clean Windows and Mirrors With Vinegar Spray
Clear, streak-free windows make any home look brighter. Instead of store-bought glass cleaners, Johal recommends a vinegar-based solution. Simply combine equal parts white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto windows, mirrors, or glass doors, and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
“Vinegar cuts through fingerprints, hard water spots, and grime better than many commercial products,” Johal explains. To reduce the vinegar smell, he adds a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil for a more pleasant fragrance.
This DIY spray is affordable, effective, and leaves glass surfaces sparkling clean.
Freshen Indoor Air Naturally
Indoor air often becomes stale, especially after months of closed windows during colder seasons. Johal’s first step in seasonal cleaning is to open all windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. This helps push out dust, allergens, and odors trapped inside.
To enhance air quality, he also sets out bowls of activated charcoal or baking soda in busy rooms such as the living room and kitchen. These natural absorbers trap odors instead of masking them, making the space feel lighter and cleaner.
Make Your Own Room Spray
For those who enjoy the refreshing effect of room sprays, Johal suggests making a homemade natural version. His recipe includes half a cup of distilled water, a quarter cup of witch hazel, and 20 drops of essential oil.
Essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree not only smell invigorating but also carry antibacterial properties. This DIY spray freshens the air in any room—without the chemical load found in commercial air fresheners.
It’s customizable, too: choose citrus oils for the kitchen, calming lavender for the bedroom, or a blend of peppermint and tea tree for bathrooms.
Clean and Sanitize Wooden Cutting Boards
Wooden cutting boards require special care because they easily absorb moisture and bacteria. According to Jon Riding, founder of Evergreen Cleaning Company, the best method for cleaning wood boards is a simple mix of lemon and salt.
Here’s how it works:
- Sprinkle coarse salt over the cutting board.
- Use half a lemon to scrub the salt into the surface.
- Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.
This technique removes stains, sanitizes the surface, and leaves behind a subtle lemon fragrance. It’s a natural way to keep cutting boards safe for daily cooking without resorting to bleach or heavy-duty cleaners.
Why Choose Natural Cleaning Methods?
Switching to natural cleaning solutions provides more than just sparkling surfaces. Here are key benefits to consider:
- Healthier Environment – You avoid inhaling harsh chemicals or exposing your skin to irritants.
- Budget-Friendly – Ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon are inexpensive and multipurpose.
- Eco-Friendly – Natural cleaners reduce chemical runoff, protecting waterways and the environment.
- Safe for Families and Pets – Non-toxic formulas make homes safer for children and animals.
Pro Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Always test a small hidden area first to ensure the ingredient doesn’t damage the surface.
- Use microfiber cloths, which clean more effectively than paper towels and reduce waste.
- For strong odors, allow natural powders like baking soda to sit longer before vacuuming.
- Store homemade sprays in glass bottles to preserve their freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are natural cleaning methods as effective as chemical cleaners?
Yes, natural cleaning methods like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon are highly effective for everyday cleaning. They deodorize, disinfect, and cut through grease without harmful chemicals.
Can I use baking soda on all types of surfaces?
Baking soda works well on most surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and sinks. However, avoid using it on delicate surfaces like marble or aluminum, as it may cause scratches.
How often should I deodorize carpets with baking soda?
Once a month is usually enough for regular maintenance. If you have pets or frequent cooking odors, you can refresh carpets every 1–2 weeks.
Will vinegar damage glass or mirrors?
No, vinegar is safe for cleaning glass and mirrors. Just mix it with water and wipe with a microfiber cloth for streak-free results.
What essential oils are best for homemade room sprays?
Lavender, lemon, peppermint, and tea tree oils are popular choices. They provide a pleasant fragrance and some carry natural antibacterial benefits.
Can I sanitize wooden cutting boards without chemicals?
Yes, scrubbing with coarse salt and lemon is a natural way to clean and disinfect wooden cutting boards effectively.
Are natural cleaners safe for homes with kids and pets?
Absolutely. Since they don’t contain harsh chemicals, natural cleaning solutions are safer for families and pets when used properly.
Conclusion
Natural cleaning solutions prove that you don’t need harsh chemicals to achieve a spotless, fresh-smelling home. With simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and essential oils, you can clean effectively while protecting your health, family, and environment. Professional cleaners such as Deep Johal and Jon Riding rely on these eco-friendly methods because they deliver real results—removing odors, cutting through grease, sanitizing surfaces, and refreshing indoor air. By adopting these expert-approved tips, you not only simplify your cleaning routine but also create a safer and more sustainable living space. Small changes, like swapping chemical sprays for natural alternatives, can make a big difference in how your home looks, feels, and even smells.