Create Your Eco-Friendly Cleaning Kit (That Actually Works)

Toxins and chemicals are everywhere. You eat and breath it in. You also clean with it too. According to the EPA, the average American household contains over 60 toxic chemicals from conventional cleaning products. Not only do these harm the environment, but they also contaminate indoor air and waterways. There are alternatives to these chemical-based cleaning products like making your own eco-friendly cleaning kit! It’s powerful, non-toxic, and plastic-free.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to build an effective, eco-friendly cleaning kit using simple, sustainable swaps. Whether you’re a minimalist, a busy parent, or starting out on your sustainability journey, these solutions will save money, reduce waste, and keep your home sparkling. Minus the toxins.

*Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my blog. Thank you!”

Photo by Vlada Karpovich on Pexels

Why Switch to an Eco-Friendly Cleaning Kit?

Before diving into the essentials, let’s look at the three biggest problems with conventional cleaners:

1. Plastic Waste – Over 16 million tons of plastic packaging waste was generated in the U.S. in 2021. Most cleaning product bottles aren’t recycled.
2. Toxic Chemicals – Many cleaners contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) with has been linked to respiratory issues according to the American Lung Association.
3. Cost – DIY cleaners can be 10x cheaper than store-bought options.

A zero-waste kit solves all three—let’s build yours.

The 5 Must-Have Items for Your Eco-Friendly Cleaning Kit

Photo by SC Studio on Pexels

1. Reusable Glass or Stainless Steel Spray Bottles

Glass and stainless steel are the best. But did you know plastic spray bottles leach chemicals and often end up in landfills? Use these instead:

• Amber glass bottles (blocks UV light, preserving DIY cleaners)
• Stainless steel sprayers (unbreakable and long-lasting)
  • Pro Tip: Label bottles with a chalk pen for easy identification. We love cute.

Photo by Dr Bronner’s

2. Castile Soap (The Ultimate All-Purpose Cleaner)

Why? This plant-based soap is biodegradable, non-toxic, and versatile. This soap can be used in different ways:

• All-purpose cleaner (1/4 cup Castile soap + 2 cups water)
• Floor cleaner (1/2 cup soap + 1 gallon water)
  • Best Brand: Dr. Bronner’s (available in bulk to reduce packaging).

Photo by Rosana Solis on Pexels

3. Baking Soda & White Vinegar (Dynamic Duo)

Why? These pantry staples cut grease, deodorize, and disinfect without harsh chemicals. These two power duos can become:

• Scouring paste (baking soda + water) for sinks and tubs.
• Drain cleaner (1/2 cup baking soda + 1/2 cup vinegar, followed by hot water).

Photo by Three Bluebirds

4. Swedish Dishcloths (Replace Paper Towels & Sponges)

Why? Sponges shed microplastics, and paper towels create waste. So swap your paper towels and sponges with:

• Swedish dishcloths (compostable, absorbent, and last 6+ months).
  • Best Brands: Three Bluebirds and Marley’s Monsters

Photo by Tree of Life Seeds on Pexels

5. Essential Oils (For Scent & Disinfection)

Why? Many commercial cleaners use synthetic fragrances (linked to allergies). Enter essential oils. This is dynamic tool can do wonders. Here’s two good ones:

• Tea tree oil (antibacterial)
• Lemon oil (degreasing + fresh scent)
  • Pro Tip: Add 10 drops per spray bottle for a natural fragrance boost.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels

Bonus: 3 Zero-Waste Cleaning Tools to Consider

1. Wooden Scrub Brushes – Replace plastic scrubbers with compostable bamboo brushes.
2. Wool Dryer Balls – Ditch dryer sheets (which contain synthetic chemicals).
3. Microfiber Alternatives – Use cotton cloths (microfibers pollute oceans).

Photo by Jep Gambardella on Pexels

How to Store & Maintain Your Kit

• Keep it simple: Store everything in a caddy or basket under the sink.
• Refill, don’t rebuy: Purchase Castile soap, vinegar, and baking soda in bulk.
• Wash & reuse: Swedish dishcloths and brushes can be washed in the dishwasher.

Final Thoughts: Clean Home, Clean Planet

Switching to a eco-friendly cleaning kit is one of the easiest ways to reduce plastic waste, avoid toxins, and save money. Start with one swap (like ditching paper towels) and gradually build your kit.

Which item will you try first? Share your eco-friendly cleaning journey in the comments!