DIY Cleaners From the Amish
Are you tired of harsh chemicals in your cleaning routine? What if you could get things sparkling clean with simple, natural ingredients? DIY cleaners from the Amish prove it’s possible. For generations, they’ve relied on these tried-and-true remedies that are both effective and chemical-free.
Your guide to simple living includes chemical-free, easy-to-make options for cleaning your home that work!
I love telling the story of how I first started using natural cleaners. It all began in our bathroom. I was scrubbing the sink when I noticed the drain was starting to clog. I grabbed this little handy tool to clear it out, but there was still some debris slowing things down. Frustrated, I pulled out my phone to search for a solution. That’s when I stumbled upon a simple DIY drain cleaner made from a few basic supplies sitting right there in my kitchen pantry.
I figured, why not give it a shot? And let me tell you, I was more than surprised—I was shocked at how well it worked! To this day, I still use that same natural solution regularly in every sink and drain in our house.
If you’re looking to simplify your lifestyle, switching to natural cleaning products might be a great place to start. Why rely on store-bought chemicals when you can whip up your own cleaners with everyday items you probably already have at home? By keeping a few key ingredients on hand, you can easily mix up whatever cleaner you need, right when you need it—no trips to the store required.
Best Homemade Amish Cleaners
One of the best tips from the Amish is to use natural, non-toxic cleaning products. This includes vinegar, soap, water, and baking soda. These ingredients can be used alone or combined, creating multi-purpose cleaners that will help you keep your home sparkling without all the harsh chemicals. If you want to add a bit of scent to your cleaners, essential oils can also be used, as they have natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
#1. DIY Everyday Cleaner
This all-purpose cleaner is perfect for daily use on most surfaces in your home. It’s versatile, easy to make, and customizable with your favorite essential oils.
What You Need:
- 1/8 cup vinegar
- 8-12 drops essential oil (like lavender or tea tree)
- 1/2 teaspoon castile soap or phosphate-free dish soap
- 1 cup distilled water
How to Make It:
Pour the distilled water into a glass spray bottle, then add the other ingredients. Gently mix them together.
Tip: Use this cleaner for quick cleanups on countertops, tables, and even cabinet doors. Just spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.
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#2. DIY Scrubbing Paste
Got tough stains on counters or sinks? This scrubbing paste is your go-to. It’s gentle yet effective!
What You Need:
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
How to Make It:
Mix the baking soda and lemon juice to form a paste. Adjust the amounts as needed. Use a sponge or brush to apply the paste, scrubbing in circles. Finish by rinsing thoroughly with water.
Tip: This paste works wonders on coffee or tea stains in mugs too! Apply, scrub lightly, and rinse clean.
#3. DIY Dusting Polish
Want to make your furniture shine? This Amish-inspired dusting polish is as simple as it gets.
What You Need:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A few drops of lemon essential oil (optional)
How to Make It:
Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle. Shake well before every use.
Tip: Spray a small amount onto a soft cloth and wipe wooden furniture in the direction of the grain for a natural shine.
#4. DIY Floor Cleaner
Cleaning floors doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals. This cleaner works great for removing dirt and grime while being gentle on surfaces.
What You Need:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
- 1/8 teaspoon dish soap
- 8-10 drops lemon essential oil (optional)
How to Make It:
Combine the ingredients in a bucket or spray bottle. Mix gently.
Tip: Use this cleaner with a mop for tile, linoleum, or even sealed wood floors. Remember to wring out the mop well to avoid over-wetting wood surfaces.
#5. DIY Laundry Detergent
Why buy laundry detergent when you can make your own? This recipe is effective, natural, and incredibly budget-friendly.
What You Need:
- 2 cups baking soda
- 1 cup washing soda
- 1 bar of grated natural soap (4-5 ounces)
How to Make It:
Stir the baking soda and washing soda in a large bowl. Add the grated soap and mix until evenly blended. Store in an airtight container. Use about 1/2 cup per load.
Tip: This detergent works especially well in warm or hot water. If you’re washing in cold water, dissolve it in a bit of warm water before adding it to the machine.
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#6. Natural Stain Remover
Tough fabric stains have met their match with this simple, effective stain remover.
What You Need:
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
How to Make It:
Mix the baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap to form a paste. Apply it to the stain using a damp cloth and rub gently. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes, then scrub with a brush or sponge. Rinse and wash as usual.
Tip: For really stubborn stains, repeat the process or pre-soak the fabric before laundering.
#7. Natural Air Freshener
Say goodbye to synthetic air fresheners and hello to natural freshness. Whether you prefer a simmer pot or a spray, this DIY solution smells amazing and works double-duty.
What You Need:
For a simmer pot:
- Slices of citrus fruits (like oranges or lemons)
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary) or cinnamon sticks
For a spray:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 25 drops of essential oil
How to Make It:
Simmer pot: Fill a pot with water, add citrus slices and herbs, and simmer on low heat to release refreshing scents.
Spray option: Mix baking soda and essential oil. Store it in a container, and keep it in any area that needs freshening up.
Tip: Use the simmer pot method in the kitchen while cooking to neutralize food odors.
#8. DIY Glass Cleaner
Say goodbye to streaks on windows and mirrors with this streak-free glass cleaner.
What You Need:
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid dish soap
How to Make It:
Combine the ingredients in a glass spray bottle and shake well. Spray on glass and wipe with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
Tip: Use newspaper instead of paper towels for an even better shine with no lint residue.
#9. DIY Tile and Grout Cleaner
Tile and grout cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With this simple recipe, it’s easier than you think!
What You Need:
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
- 2 tablespoons liquid dish soap
How to Make It:
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Apply the mixture to tile or grout stains and leave it for about 10 minutes. Scrub with a brush, rinse, and dry.
Tip: Use an old toothbrush for detailed grout work and to reach those hard-to-clean corners.
FAQ for DIY Amish Cleaners
How do I stock a cleaning ingredient pantry?
If you want to start making DIY Amish cleaners, having a well-stocked cleaning ingredient pantry is key. This will allow you to try out new recipes using what you already have on hand. Here are the basics you’ll want to keep on hand:
- Vinegar (white vinegar is ideal for most recipes)
- Baking soda (a powerhouse for scrubbing and deodorizing)
- Castile soap or a phosphate-free dish soap
- Essential oils (like lemon, lavender, or tea tree for added scent and antibacterial properties)
- Washing soda (great for laundry and heavy-duty cleaning)
- Hydrogen peroxide (for removing tough stains and disinfecting)
- Olive oil or coconut oil (used in dusting polishes and some wood treatments)
- Lemon juice (a natural degreaser and stain remover)
Pro tip: Store these ingredients in airtight containers or their original bottles in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh and ready whenever you need them!
What are the best old-fashioned cleaning tools?
Who says you need a fancy gadget to clean? The Amish still rely on old-fashioned tools simply because they work. Here are a few to consider for your cleaning kit:
- Brooms with natural bristles for sweeping floors without scratching surfaces.
- Wooden scrub brushes for tackling tough grime on tiles, sinks, and grout.
- Dusting cloths (preferably made from soft, reusable fabrics like cotton or microfiber).
- Buckets for mixing and carrying cleaning solutions.
- Steel wool pads for scrubbing away rust or challenging stains on metal surfaces.
- Clotheslines and pins for air-drying laundry naturally and effectively.
- Old toothbrushes for detailed scrubbing in small, hard-to-reach areas.
By focusing on durable, reusable tools, you’ll save money and extend the life of your cleaning supplies.
Are these cleaners safe for all surfaces?
Most DIY Amish cleaners are gentle and safe, especially since they’re made with natural ingredients. However, it’s always a good idea to test any cleaner on a small, hidden area before using it on the entire surface. Here are a few specific tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid vinegar on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as it can cause etching.
- Be cautious with abrasive recipes (like baking soda scrubs) on delicate or highly polished surfaces.
- Dilute ingredients as needed for surfaces like wood to avoid buildup or damage.
- Always rinse thoroughly after using scrubs or pastes to avoid residue.
By testing and tailoring these recipes to your home, you’ll get the best results while keeping your surfaces safe.
Switching to DIY Amish cleaners is a great homesteading tip that can transform the way you approach cleaning. These natural, chemical-free solutions are not only effective but also healthier for your home, the environment, and you.
Imagine tackling stains, dust, and grime with simple ingredients you already have in your pantry. It’s a money-saving, easy way to take control of what’s in your cleaning products.
Why not give it a try? Start with one recipe, like a dusting polish or everyday cleaner, and see how it fits into your routine. You might find that this simpler, more natural approach feels just right for your home.
