When you walk through the aisles of any store, it’s hard to ignore the long list of questionable ingredients and unnecessary plastic packaging on everyday products.
With health concerns on the rise and the planet’s resources stretched thin, more people are turning to DIY solutions to take control of what goes into their homes. From skincare to cleaning products, making your own essentials isn’t just healthier—it’s easier than you might think.
Here’s 15 simple, homemade alternatives that will save you money, reduce waste, and give you peace of mind about what you’re really using every day.
1. Facial Toner
Store-bought toners often contain harsh alcohols and artificial preservatives that can strip your skin. This gentle, natural version balances and nourishes:
- 1/4 cup witch hazel
- 1/4 cup distilled water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (with mother)
- 10 drops lavender or tea tree essential oil
Perfect for all skin types, this toner helps balance pH levels while providing natural antibacterial properties. The apple cider vinegar helps fight acne while witch hazel reduces inflammation. Store in a dark glass bottle for maximum shelf life.
2. Soap
Commercial soaps strip your skin’s natural oils and often contain synthetic fragrances. Create your own nourishing alternative:
- 1 lb sulfate-free soap base
- 2 tsp carrier oil (grapeseed, coconut, avocado, olive, or almond)
- 1 tsp shea butter
- Essential oils of choice
- Soap molds
- Optional natural colorants
This base recipe allows endless customization. Add oatmeal for exfoliation, activated charcoal for detoxifying properties, or dried herbs for natural color and texture.
Melt the soap base using the microwave or stovetop, then mix in the remaining ingredients and pour the blend into your molds.
3. Bug Spray
Skip the DEET and other harsh chemicals with this effective natural repellent:
- Equal parts witch hazel and distilled water
- 20-30 drops tea tree essential oil
- 20-30 drops preferred scented essential oil
The combination of tea tree oil and witch hazel naturally repels insects while being gentle on skin. Add citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender oils for enhanced protection.
4. Mouthwash
Traditional mouthwashes contain alcohol and artificial colors that disrupt oral microbiome:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
This natural formula maintains healthy oral pH while fighting bacteria. The baking soda helps neutralize acids while tea tree provides antimicrobial benefits.
5. Bubble Bath
Commercial bubble baths often contain sodium lauryl sulfate and artificial fragrances:
- 1 cup unscented castile soap
- 1/2 cup vegetable glycerin
- 2 tbsp distilled water
- 15+ drops essential oil
The glycerin creates lasting bubbles while moisturizing skin. Customize with lavender for relaxation or eucalyptus for respiratory benefits.
6. Weedkiller
Chemical herbicides can harm pets, wildlife, and groundwater. This natural solution is both effective and safe:
- 1 gallon vinegar
- 2 cups Epsom salt
- 1/4 cup biodegradable castile soap
The high acidity combined with salt dehydrates weeds naturally. Apply on sunny days for best results.
7. Produce Wash
Conventional produce often carries pesticide residues and wax coatings:
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
- Optional: 2 tsp baking soda
The acidic combination breaks down wax coatings while killing harmful bacteria. Let produce soak for 5-10 minutes for best results.
8. Deodorant
Traditional antiperspirants contain aluminum compounds linked to health concerns:
- 1/4 cup witch hazel
- 20 drops frankincense essential oil
- 20 drops lavender essential oil
- 20 drops lemon essential oil
Use a 2oz spray bottle and spray as needed.
Witch hazel acts as an astringent while essential oils provide antibacterial properties and lasting fragrance.
9. Dry Shampoo
Avoid aerosol sprays and harsh chemicals with these custom blends:
- For Brunettes:
- 4 tbsp arrowroot powder
- 4 tbsp cocoa powder
For Blondes: - 4 tbsp arrowroot powder
- 3/4 tsp turmeric
For Redheads: - 4 tbsp arrowroot powder
- 2 1/4 tsp paprika
Natural powders absorb excess oil while adding subtle color. The arrowroot provides lightweight absorption without residue.
10. Body Lotion
Skip the parabens and artificial fragrances:
- 2 tbsp beeswax
- 1/2 cup almond oil
- 2 tbsp shea butter
- 5 drops essential oil
- 3/4 cup distilled water
- 2 tbsp olive or coconut oil
Perfect for dry skin and eczema, this rich formula provides deep hydration while allowing skin to breathe.
Place the beeswax and oils in a double boiler, stirring until fully melted. Next, mix in the essential oils. Transfer the mixture to the fridge for 5-10 minutes, just until it takes on a creamy texture.
Once ready, whip the mixture while gradually adding the water until fully combined.
11. Sunblock
Chemical sunscreens can disrupt hormones and harm marine life:
- 1/2 cup almond oil
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup beeswax
- 2 tbsp zinc oxide
- 1 tsp carrot seed oil
- 1 tbsp shea butter
Provides natural SPF protection while nourishing skin. The zinc oxide offers broad-spectrum protection.
A few things to keep in mind:
- This sunscreen isn’t waterproof, so you’ll need to reapply after swimming or sweating.
- Be careful not to breathe in the zinc oxide—using a mask can help with that.
- Want a thicker sunscreen? Add more beeswax. For a smoother texture, use less.
- Store it in a cool, dry spot or pop it in the fridge. I like to keep mine in a small canning jar and apply it like body butter.
- Skip the zinc oxide, and you’ve got yourself a great lotion recipe
12. Toilet Bowl Cleaner Tabs
Replace harsh chemical cleaners with these natural fizzing tablets:
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup citric acid
- 10+ drops tea tree essential oil
The fizzing action helps clean while tea tree oil provides natural disinfectant properties.
Mix the dry ingredients and essential oils in a bowl, then slowly spritz in the water until the mixture has a crumbly texture. It should hold together when pressed firmly.
13. Lip Balm
Skip petroleum-based products for this nourishing alternative:
- 1/4 cup beeswax
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp almond oil
- 5 drops essential oil
Creates a protective barrier while actually healing lips. The beeswax provides lasting protection.
Melt all the ingredients together in a double boiler, then pour the mixture into containers to cool. Super simple!
14. Reusable Dryer Sheets
Eliminate single-use sheets and artificial fragrances:
- Cut fabric squares from old towels or t-shirts
- 1 cup vinegar
- 30+ drops essential oil
- Pour mix onto the fabric
Reduces waste while naturally softening laundry. The vinegar helps remove static cling naturally.
15. All-Purpose Cleaner
Replace toxic cleaners with this citrus-powered solution:
- Fill jar with orange peels
- Cover with white vinegar
- Steep for two weeks
The citrus oils naturally cut through grease while providing antimicrobial benefits. Safe for most surfaces including granite and marble.
There are no specific measurements since it really depends on the size of your jar and the type of orange peels you have (whether it’s navel or mandarin). Just fill the jar with your orange peels, then pour in enough vinegar to fully cover them.
Let it sit for about two weeks, then strain the liquid into a spray bottle. It’s perfect for cleaning almost any surface.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.