Store-bought “multi-surface” cleaners are expensive, clutter your cabinets, and often contain ingredients you don’t need. The good news? You can make a simple, effective cleaner at home in just a few minutes — using items you probably already have.

This DIY multi-surface cleaner is affordable, easy to mix, and works on most everyday household surfaces.

Why Make Your Own Multi-Surface Cleaner?

Most commercial cleaners are:

• Overpriced for what they are
• Filled with unnecessary dyes and fragrances
• Marketed as “all-purpose” but limited in real use

A homemade cleaner gives you:

• Full control over ingredients
• Less plastic waste
• A solution that actually cleans without residue

And best of all — it takes about 2 minutes to make.

What You’ll Need

You don’t need specialty products or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 cup white vinegar (or rubbing alcohol as an alternative)
• 1 teaspoon dish soap
• Optional: a few drops of essential oil (for scent only)

Supplies:

• Empty spray bottle
• Funnel (optional, but helpful)

How to Make the Cleaner

1. Add 1 cup of water to your spray bottle
2. Add 1 cup of white vinegar
3. Add 1 teaspoon of dish soap
4. If desired, add a few drops of essential oil
5. Shake gently to combine

Avoid shaking too hard — aggressive shaking can create excess foam from the soap.

That’s it. Your cleaner is ready to use.

Where This Cleaner Works Best

This homemade cleaner is safe and effective on many common household surfaces, including:

• Kitchen and bathroom counters
• Sinks
• Appliances (exteriors)
• Cabinets

It cleans without leaving residue and doesn’t rely on harsh chemicals.

Surfaces You Should NOT Use This On

This step is important.

Do not use vinegar-based cleaners on:

• Marble
• Granite
• Natural stone

Vinegar is acidic and can etch or damage natural stone surfaces over time. Always check manufacturer recommendations if you’re unsure.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a shelf full of cleaners to keep your home clean. This simple DIY multi-surface spray proves that effective cleaning can be inexpensive, easy, and clutter-free.

If you try this recipe, save it, share it, and adjust the scent to your liking — just remember to keep it off natural stone.

For more practical, no-fluff home tips, follow @savagehomeskillz on instagram and keep building real home skills.