The Truth About Cleaning Products (+ A Natural DIY Recipe That Works!)

Have you ever opened a cleaning product and been hit with a chemical smell so strong you had to open a window? You're not alone. For decades, conventional cleaners have been sold to us as the only way to get a “truly clean” home. But here's the truth: many of those bottles under your sink may be doing more harm than good, not just to your health, but also to the planet.

As a Lifestyle Medicine nurse and advocate for clean living, I believe what you breathe and touch every day matters. And when it comes to your home, small changes can make a big difference.

What’s Really in Most Cleaning Products?

Typical store-bought cleaners often contain:

• Synthetic fragrances – linked to respiratory issues and hormone disruption

• Phthalates and parabens – endocrine-disrupting chemicals

• Ammonia and chlorine bleach – irritating to lungs, eyes, and skin

• Quaternary ammonium compounds (“quats”) – associated with asthma and antibiotic resistance

And yet… we’re spraying them on our countertops, using them around our pets and kids, and releasing them into our air and waterways.

Why Natural Cleaning Works

Natural cleaning ingredients—like vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, and plant-based surfactants They:

• Can be just as effective without the toxic load.
• Break down grease and grime
• Disinfect surfaces (naturally, with things like tea tree oil or hydrogen peroxide)
• Leave your home smelling fresh, not chemical-laden
• Are safer for sensitive skin, pets, and young children
• Reduce indoor air pollution

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner Recipe

This simple recipe is my go-to. It’s safe, powerful, and smells amazing!

Plant-Powered All-Purpose Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups distilled water
• ½ cup white vinegar (skip vinegar for stone surfaces – see note below)
• 1 tbsp castile soap (like Dr. Bronner’s)
• 10 drops tea tree essential oil (antibacterial)
• 10 drops lemon or lavender essential oil (fresh scent + grease-cutting)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a 16 oz glass spray bottle.
2. Shake gently before each use.
3. Spray on surfaces and wipe clean with a reusable cloth.

Tip: For granite, marble, or natural stone, omit vinegar and use more castile soap with a few drops of rubbing alcohol instead.

Small Swaps, Big Change

Switching to non-toxic cleaners is one of the easiest, most impactful things you can do for your health and home. You’ll breathe easier (literally), reduce your toxic burden, and clean just as effectively—without the harsh side effects.

So next time you reach under the sink, take a look at your labels. Then give this DIY recipe a try and see how simple, safe, and satisfying clean can really be.

Stay healthy sweet friends,