DIY Bathroom Cleaner Recipe for a Fresh & Sparkling Space

Description

Reviewed by: Kacie La

Jul 2nd, 2026 | 5 minute read

Ever walked into your bathroom, ready for a quick clean, only to be hit with that sharp chemical smell that makes you want to leave the room instead? For years, that was my cleaning routine of harsh sprays, watery eyes, and a lingering scent that felt anything but “fresh”. Then I tried making my own DIY Bathroom Cleaner, and suddenly cleaning didn’t feel like a chore anymore. It felt lighter, calmer, and more mindful like I was caring for my home instead of just scrubbing it down.

What makes this cleaner amazing is its simplicity. It’s gentle on skin, kind to the environment, and easy on the budget no fancy ingredients or complicated steps needed. Baking soda lifts grime, castile liquid soap washes away residue, and a blend of lemon and peppermint essential oils leaves everything smelling bright and clean. Together, they transform an ordinary task into something that actually feels good to do.

If you’ve ever wished cleaning could feel a little more natural and less stressful, this DIY Bathroom Cleaner is worth trying. It’s practical, effective, and made with everyday ingredients you can trust and proof that a cleaner home doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health or peace of mind.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Recipe

Prep Summary
What you will need
Method

Benefits of DIY Bathroom Cleaner

Safe Use and Warnings

FAQ's

RECIPE

PREP SUMMARY

LEVEL

Beginner

TIME

10 minutes

YIELD

1 spray bottle (300ml)

What you will need

• 1 cup distilled or demineralised water: This forms the base of the cleaner and helps the ingredients mix smoothly. I prefer using distilled water because it prevents mineral buildup on bathroom walls and tiles.

• 2 tablespoons baking soda: Acts as a gentle abrasive that helps loosen soap scum and grime. I like using it because it cleans well and it’s usually safe on most surfaces, but make sure to use it only where suitable. I once tried it on stainless steel and polished stone, and it left faint marks, so be careful.

• 4 tablespoons castile liquid soap: A mild, plant-based soap that lifts away dirt and grease with ease. I like using it because it cleans thoroughly yet stays gentle on my hands. Just be mindful not to mix it with vinegar or anything acidic. I once made that mistake, and it turned into a clumpy mixture that did not clean well at all.

• 10 drops lemon essential oil: Adds a light, citrus scent that brightens the room. I like using lemon oil because it keeps the air smelling clean and fresh.

• 10 drops peppermint essential oil: Brings a cool, refreshing aroma that makes the bathroom feel energised. I enjoy using peppermint oil because its scent helps the space feel new again.

Method

Fill a clean spray bottle with 1 cup distilled or demineralised water. Any type of spray bottle will do, and its even better if you can repurpose an old one to reduce waste.

Add 2 tablespoons of sodium bicarbonate and 4 tablespoons of organic castile liquid soap. Stir or swirl the bottle gently to make sure the mixture turns smooth and even. This helps prevent the baking soda from clogging the spray bottle.

Next, add 10 drops of lemon essential oil and 10 drops of peppermint essential oil. The refreshing mix releases a bright, clean scent that makes the room feel fresh and inviting each time you clean.

Shake the bottle gently before each use to keep the ingredients well mixed. Spray onto bathroom surfaces, leave for a few moments, then wipe clean with a damp cloth or sponge.

Personal tip: Sometimes when I leave the cleaner unused for a few days, the spray nozzle clogs from dried baking soda or soap. When that happens, I soak the spray head in warm water for a few minutes, rinse it well, and test it with clean water. A quick rinse after each use also helps stop it from clogging again.

NOTE: This cleaner contains distilled or demineralised water and no preservatives, discard any leftover mixture after one week to keep it fresh and safe for use.

Benefits of DIY Bathroom Cleaner

I really like to create my own DIY bathroom cleaner. It makes cleaning feel simpler and more pleasing. It is comforting to know what is in it and to use things that are soft but work well.

✔ Free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances – No overwhelming smells or strong sprays that make you hesitant to clean.
✔ Gentle and natural – Safe for regular use on bathroom surfaces and kinder on your hands than many commercial cleaners.
✔ Reusable and sustainable – You can mix it in any spray bottle, even recycled ones, reducing single-use plastic.
✔ Leaves no unwanted residues – The combination of baking soda and castile soap lifts dirt effectively without leaving streaks or sticky layers.
✔ Cost-effective and simple – Uses a few basic, multipurpose ingredients you likely already have at home.
✔ Easily refreshed – Make a fresh batch each week without needing multiple commercial products cluttering your cupboard.
✔ Customisable scent – I like the bright, fresh mix of lemon and peppermint essential oils, but you can try lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus for a refreshing change.
✔ Fresh, uplifting aroma – This DIY bathroom cleaner leaves your surfaces sparkling and your bathroom filled with a clean, inviting scent that makes cleaning feel more pleasant.

Safe Use and Warnings

When making and using this DIY bathroom cleaner, it is important to handle the ingredients properly to ensure safety:

• Baking Soda: Should be reserved for household cleaning. Avoid prolonged contact with your eyes and skin, as it may cause dryness or irritation. If you plan to use it frequently, wearing gloves is recommended. Store it in a sealed container in a cool, dry location, and use it solely for cleaning purposes.

• Castile Liquid Soap: This cleaning product is commonly used and biodegrades easily. To maintain its effectiveness and prevent separation, don't combine it with vinegar or other acidic substances. Ensure the bottle is sealed tightly and store it in a cool, dry area. Only use it for cleaning surfaces or for external use.

• Lemon Essential Oil: When handling this essential oil, wear gloves to prevent skin contact, as it can irritate some individuals. Avoid contact with your eyes and do not ingest it. Store the oil in a cool, dark, and dry area, shielded from both heat and direct sun exposure.

• Peppermint Essential Oil: Using this essential oil directly on your skin may cause irritation. If skin contact occurs, rinse the affected area well with water. Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive regions. It is not meant for consumption. Keep this oil stored in a cool, dry location, shielded from heat and light.

IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS: Be sure to mark your homemade items well and keep them in closed containers out of the sun. Store all items away from kids and animals. Stop using the product right away if it comes into contact with your skin and your skin gets irritated.

DISCLAIMER: This information is intended for teaching purposes only and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. This recipe is not meant to be used to treat conditions or be ingested. Be sure to test a small area of skin before using, and seek medical advice if you experience an allergic reaction or have health issues. Use these recipes at your own discretion.