Go Back
+ servings
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Cleaning Scrub

This Homemade Cleaning Scrub is a non-toxic dupe for The Pink Stuff. Safe, powerful, budget-friendly, and made in under 5 minutes with simple ingredients.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: DIY Home & Body
Cuisine: DIY Home & Body
ingredient tag: soy-free
Servings: 1 cup ~
Author: Sam Turnbull

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Make the scrub: In a medium bowl, mix together the baking soda, water, soap, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oil (if using), and stir to make a smooth paste.
    Tip: Citrus essential oils like lemon or orange may cause the scrub to expand slightly over time. For a more stable texture, use them sparingly or opt for gentler oils like lavender, cedarwood, or frankincense, or skip the oils altogether.
  • Storage: Store in a jar with extra room at the top. If the scrub becomes fluffy or foamy (totally normal!), just give it a stir. Leave the lid slightly ajar for the first 12–24 hours to release any pressure, then seal as usual.
  • How to Use: Scoop with a cloth or sponge and scrub the surface. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and rinse.
    Safe for: Stainless steel sinks, porcelain tubs, showers, stovetops, tiles, and grout
    Avoid using on: Natural stone (like granite or marble), wood, non-stick cookware, aluminum, and soft metals (may dull or scratch the surface)

Notes

Essential Oil Scent Combos

  • 🍋 Lemon + Tea Tree: Fresh, powerful, and perfect for disinfecting.
  • 🌿 Peppermint + Lemon: Crisp, energizing, and clean.
  • 🛁 Eucalyptus + Lavender: Spa-like and calming.
  • 🍊 Orange + Clove: Warm, cozy, and great for kitchen grime.

Pet Safety

Some essential oils (like tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, and citrus) can be harmful to pets, especially cats. If you have pets at home, use in well-ventilated areas, rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning, store the scrub safely out of reach, or skip essential oils altogether if you’re unsure or want to err on the side of caution.