If you’re looking for a simple, effective, and eco-friendly way to clean your home, a homemade all-purpose cleaner made with vinegar and lemon is one of the best natural solutions available.
This DIY cleaner is safe, budget-friendly, and works on a wide variety of surfaces—from kitchen counters and bathroom sinks to glass and tile.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make and use a powerful vinegar-and-lemon cleaner that’s perfect for daily cleaning.
We’ll explain why it works, how to customize it, and what to avoid so you can confidently clean your home with ingredients you probably already have.
Why Use Vinegar and Lemon as a Cleaner?
Both vinegar and lemon are natural cleaning powerhouses.
White vinegar contains acetic acid, which:
- Breaks down grease and grime
- Neutralizes odors
- Inhibits bacteria and mold growth
- Cuts through mineral deposits and soap scum
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which:
- Acts as a mild natural bleach
- Cuts grease
- Offers antibacterial properties
- Leaves a fresh, clean scent
When combined, they form a non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning solution that’s safe for the whole family and ideal for everyday messes.
What You’ll Need
To make your own all-purpose cleaner with vinegar and lemon, gather the following:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white distilled vinegar
- 1 cup water (preferably distilled)
- Peels from 2–3 lemons (organic if possible)
- 10–15 drops of lemon essential oil (optional, for added scent and cleaning power)
Tools and Supplies:
- A clean glass jar with lid (mason jars work well)
- A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- A funnel
- A spray bottle (preferably glass)
- A sharp knife or vegetable peeler
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Peel the Lemons
Use a vegetable peeler to remove the peels from your lemons. Try to get as little of the white pith as possible—this part doesn’t have cleaning benefits and can cloud the mixture.
You can use lemons you’ve already juiced—no waste!
Step 2: Infuse the Vinegar
Place the lemon peels into a clean jar and pour the white vinegar over them until the peels are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
Let this mixture sit in a cool, dark place for at least 7 to 14 days. The longer it steeps, the stronger the lemon scent and cleaning power.
Step 3: Strain and Mix
After your infusion period, strain out the lemon peels using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
In a spray bottle, combine:
- 1 part lemon-infused vinegar
- 1 part water
Optional: Add 10–15 drops of lemon essential oil for extra grease-cutting ability and a bright scent.
Step 4: Shake and Use
Shake the bottle before each use to remix the ingredients. Your cleaner is now ready to tackle most surfaces in your home.
Best Uses for Your Homemade Cleaner
This all-purpose spray is great for:
- Kitchen counters (except granite or marble)
- Backsplashes and tile
- Inside the refrigerator
- Bathroom surfaces (toilets, sinks, bathtubs)
- Door handles and light switches
- Floors (when diluted further in mop water)
- Windows and mirrors (add a little rubbing alcohol for a streak-free finish)
Spray directly on the surface and wipe with a microfiber cloth or paper towel. For tougher stains, let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Surfaces to Avoid
While this cleaner is incredibly versatile, avoid using it on:
- Natural stone countertops (marble, granite, quartz): The acid in vinegar and lemon can etch the surface.
- Unsealed wood: Can cause discoloration or damage over time.
- Electronics or screens: Avoid moisture around wires and circuits.
- Cast iron or aluminum pans: Acid can react with the metal.
Always spot test on an inconspicuous area before using on a new surface.
How to Store It
Keep your cleaner in a glass spray bottle, especially if you’re using essential oils. Plastic can degrade over time and absorb oils. Store in a cool, dark cabinet to maintain its freshness.
Shelf life: Up to 2–3 months, though it’s best used within the first month for maximum potency and scent.
Bonus Variations
1. Orange-Vinegar Cleaner:
Substitute lemon peels for orange or grapefruit peels for a sweeter scent.
2. Antibacterial Boost:
Add a few drops of tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil to enhance germ-fighting properties.
3. Degreasing Formula:
For greasy stovetops or range hoods, mix vinegar with a small squirt of castile soap. Do not combine castile soap and vinegar in one bottle—they cancel each other out. Use separately.
Cost Comparison
Homemade Cleaner:
- Lemons (from your kitchen): Free
- Vinegar: $1–2 per gallon
- Water: Free
- Essential oils (optional): Few cents per use
- Total cost per bottle: Under $0.50
Store-bought cleaner:
- $3 to $7 per bottle
- Often includes synthetic chemicals and disposable packaging
Making your own saves money, reduces plastic waste, and eliminates exposure to unnecessary toxins.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Safe, and Effective
A homemade vinegar-and-lemon all-purpose cleaner proves that cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated or chemical-laden. With just a few natural ingredients and a little patience, you can create a powerful, safe cleaner that handles everyday messes while supporting your health and the planet.
Start your first batch today using lemon peels from your next cooking session, and enjoy a cleaner home the natural way.
Márcio Luzardo is the creator of Dromiya, a site dedicated to practical home care and everyday living tips. Passionate about simplicity, organization, and smart routines, he shares clear, useful content to help people take better care of their homes with less stress and more confidence.
His goal is to make your daily life easier—one clean room, one helpful tip at a time.