You want to use fewer synthetic cleaning agents from the drugstore and are looking for a natural all-purpose cleaner that really works in everyday life? Then this vinegar cleaner recipe is just right.
With a DIY all-purpose cleaner based on white vinegar, you can clean many smooth surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom, polish mirrors and glass, and have an uncomplicated household remedy that is quickly mixed.
In short: Ideal for anyone who wants to make their own all-purpose cleaner – no frills, but effective.
What you need
- white vinegar (clear, without dyes)
- Water
- Lemon peel (cut into coarse pieces)
- essential oil (lemon or lavender)
- Spray bottle
Vinegar cleaner recipe: Mixing ratio & instructions
1 part white vinegar : 4 parts water
Example: 100 ml vinegar + 400 ml water
Step-by-step
- Pour water and white vinegar into a container in a 1:4 ratio.
- Add lemon peel and add approx. 10 drops of essential oil.
- Let the mixture steep for 24 hours (for a milder scent).
- Remove the lemon peel and fill the cleaner into a spray bottle.
✅ Your DIY all-purpose cleaner is ready.
Quick version (no steeping time)
If you're in a hurry:
Add vinegar + water directly to the spray bottle, add oil, shake briefly – and off you go.
The steeping time is mainly for a pleasant scent, not strictly necessary for cleaning performance.
Why these ingredients go so well together
Lemon peel
- helps to soften the typical vinegar smell
- provides a fresher note
- fresh "clean" scent
- perfect as a natural kitchen cleaner
Available in the shop:
- pleasantly calming (yes, even when cleaning)
- ideal for the bathroom / as a gentle bathroom cleaner
Available in the shop:
White vinegar is clear, versatile, and popular. A true classic. Many choose it deliberately instead of regular vinegar because it contains no dyes and is practical for DIY recipes in the household.
Available in the shop:
What is the all-purpose cleaner suitable for?
This natural cleaner is great for:
- Kitchen fronts & smooth surfaces (laminated/sealed)
- Bathroom: tiles, sinks, fittings (everyday care)
- Mirrors & glass (polish with a dry cloth)
- Door handles, light switches, trash cans (exterior)
Tip for streak-free mirrors:
Spray on → let it sit for a short time → wipe off with a dry microfiber cloth.
Important: Where vinegar does not belong
Vinegar is acidic – some materials can be damaged by it.
❌ Natural stone (marble, travertine, limestone)
❌ sensitive stone slabs without suitable sealing
❌ Aluminum (be careful, test first)
⚠️ Wood: only very carefully, always test in an inconspicuous area first
🚫 Never mix: never combine vinegar with chlorine-based cleaners.
Application: How to use it correctly
- Spray on
- 20–60 seconds let it soak in
- Wipe off
- Polish dry for glass/mirrors
Mini FAQ
White vinegar or vinegar essence?
For everyday use, white vinegar is easier to dose. Vinegar essence is significantly stronger and must be diluted more.
Does white vinegar help against limescale?
Vinegar can help with minor deposits. For stubborn limescale marks, it depends on the material – always test carefully and avoid natural stone.
This DIY all-purpose cleaner is a simple entry into natural cleaning: quickly mixed, versatile, and you decide for yourself what is in it.
If you would like more recipes and cleaning hacks, check the blog or Instagram regularly, where you will find more videos and tips.
