When I began re-vamping my health a few years ago, I quickly realized that it needed to go beyond just the products I was putting into my mouth. As I became more aware of chemicals and the excess ingredients in most personal and cleaning products I used, I began the hunt for ones I could easily replace. These 7 that I’ve listed are the ones I’ve used the most consistently and for the longest. Other products I have switched to purchasing cleaner versions instead, but these have been great because they not only are better for me but save a ton of money.
Personal Health
DIY Toothpaste – This was one of the very first products I started making when I began my journey into healthier living. I have had several dentist appointments since then and my teeth have never been healthier! There are a few caveats due to the melting point of coconut oil and the temperatures of the current season. I find that in the winter months the toothpaste is very hard and challenging to get an appropriate amount to stay on my toothbrush; and in the summer months it can get soupy and have the same issue. However, those are mainly just irritations and not game changers.
The only adaptations I’ve made is adding two capsules of activated charcoal. Why?? This is 100% my own theory but if it causes toxins to bind to it, I feel like it makes my mouth cleaner. Secondly, the author also mentions using peppermint extract instead of peppermint essential oil. I haven’t had an issue with using the oil, and have experimented with a variety of oils, most often returning to clove oil. Again, it has anti-viral and anti-microbial properties so I feel like my mouth is getting a great cleaning!
Homemade Hand Sanitizer Spray – Needless to say, this is the one I am making most frequently these days! It is quick, simple and I just hang on to small spray bottles from products I’ve purchased in the past and re-purpose and label them. Feel free to change up the essential oils used as long as they are known to be in the anti-bacterial and anti-viral families. My favorite blend is Thieves (Fighting Five from Eden's Garden), Tea Tree and Lemon.
Homemade Insect Repellent – So you probably already know the downside in most of the OTC bug sprays are the numerous chemicals and harmful ingredients in them. The upside is … they work! Mosquitos seem to have a love affair with both my husband and youngest son. And my son is allergic to the bites in that they swell up the size of a silver dollar, are hot to the touch, and itch like crazy. I cannot say the homemade repellent works just as well as the commercial ones; however it does compete with the store-bought clean insect repellents. My boys may end up with 3-4 bites compared to dozens. I’d say it’s worth a try to see if it works well enough for you and your family!
Homemade Foundation Powder – I don’t know about you but I tend to go through foundation powder very quickly. This has been a great alternative for days I need a little something but don’t want anything heavy on my skin. It is very light and can easily be adjusted to your skin tone. Again, I just saved old powder containers and re-purposed them.
Cleaning
Homemade Foaming Soap – I have loved this soap! And if you’re familiar with Castile soap, then you know that one bottle will last you a very long time. So not only does this soap have clean products but it is quite cost-effective as well, especially if you order your oils from Eden's Garden. I searched high and low in stores for foaming soap dispensers that fit my décor, but finally found them on Amazon. Here’s the link in case you and I have the same taste! I’ve been using them for about 6 months now and they still work great.
Heavy Duty Cleaner & Disinfectant – This product is another that has become a staple in our home the past few months. Any guesses as to why?? I feel so much better about spraying this than seeing Lysol aerosol flying all over the house. We use it regularly to clean door knobs, light switches, cell phones, counter-tops, and more recently, the bottoms of our shoes when coming in the door. The author talks about making cleaning cloths with the product—I simply put it into large glass spray bottles and have found it very convenient. Making the cleaning cloths is still on my to-do list.
DIY Dusting Spray – This is such an easy product to make. Only thing to point out is to be sure to shake it well before use, and then just a quick shake each time before you spray it. Don’t let the vinegar smell throw you off—it does not last. If it bothers you too much, just increase your essential oils! Because I like to use the citrus oils in it, I don’t used a plastic bottle but use the same glass ones mentioned above. It’s great they come in a 4-pack!
So these are the 7 DIY clean products I use the most often. Let me know what you try and if you have any questions!
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I've linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.
