DIY Cleaning Tablets: Easy, Eco-Friendly & Powerful Homemade Solution

By Lilo Last updated May 14, 2025

DIY Cleaning Tablets: The Easy Homemade Hack That Saves Money & Keeps Your Home Sparkling

Cleaning tablets have become a household favorite thanks to their ease of use and mess-free application. But did you know you can make your own at home—using safe, natural ingredients already in your pantry? These DIY tablets are affordable, eco-conscious, and surprisingly effective at tackling everyday messes in your bathroom, kitchen, and beyond.

If you’re looking for a way to clean smarter while saving money and reducing chemical exposure, this simple recipe may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Why Make DIY Cleaning Tablets?

Homemade cleaning tablets offer several key advantages:

Budget-Friendly: A single batch costs just a fraction of what you’d spend on store-bought cleaners.
Non-Toxic: No harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or mystery additives.
Eco-Friendly: No plastic bottles or single-use packaging.
Customizable: Adjust scent, strength, or ingredients to suit your needs.

Key Ingredients and Their Functions

Here’s what you’ll need—and why it works:

Baking Soda (5 tbsp): Deodorizes, breaks down grime, and gently scrubs surfaces.
Flour (5 tbsp): Acts as a binder, helping the tablets hold their shape.
White Vinegar: Dissolves mineral buildup and kills bacteria.
Dish Soap (a few drops, optional): Boosts cleaning power, especially for greasy areas.
Essential Oils (optional): Add fragrance and antibacterial properties.
Food Coloring or Citrus Zest (optional): For a colorful or naturally scented twist.

How to Make Homemade Cleaning Tablets

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking soda and flour. Mix thoroughly. If you’re adding food coloring or citrus zest, do so here.

Step 2: Add Dish Soap

Mix in a few drops of dish soap to help break down greasy residue during use.

Step 3: Slowly Add Vinegar

Pour white vinegar in small amounts while stirring. The mixture will fizz—this is normal. Stop adding vinegar once the mixture resembles damp sand.

Step 4: Mold the Tablets

Spoon the mixture into silicone molds, ice cube trays, or other small molds. Press down firmly to compact the mixture.

Step 5: Dry for 24 Hours

Let the molds sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours or until the tablets are completely dry and solid.

Step 6: Store Properly

Once hardened, remove the tablets from the molds and store them in an airtight container to protect them from moisture.

How to Use Homemade Cleaning Tablets

These tablets are incredibly versatile:

Toilet Bowl: Drop one in, let it fizz, then scrub lightly with a toilet brush.
Sink or Drain: Place a tablet in the basin or drain to deodorize and freshen pipes.
Garbage Disposal: Toss one in and run cold water to eliminate odors.
Surface Cleaner: Dissolve a tablet in a bucket of warm water for mopping or general cleaning.

Customization Tips

Want to tailor your cleaning tablets to specific needs? Try these variations:

Lemon or Tea Tree Oil: Add 10–15 drops for natural fragrance and extra antibacterial power.
Citric Acid (1 tbsp): Boosts fizzing and acts as a natural bleaching agent.
Lavender Oil + Chamomile: Ideal for bathrooms or bedrooms, with relaxing scent benefits.
Citrus Zest: Adds both scent and grease-fighting power.

Why the Baking Soda and Vinegar Combo Works

This classic pairing is more than just a satisfying fizz:

Baking Soda loosens grime and neutralizes odors.
Vinegar’s acidity breaks down soap scum, limescale, and germs.
The reaction lifts dirt and leaves surfaces sparkling.

Together, they make a simple but powerful team for everyday cleaning.

Safe and Sustainable

These homemade tablets are:

Septic-safe
Non-toxic for pets and kids (though keep them stored safely)
Plastic-free and biodegradable
Free from artificial perfumes and dyes

Final Thoughts

Creating your own cleaning tablets is not just about saving money—it’s a small but impactful step toward a cleaner, more sustainable home. With a few pantry staples and a bit of creativity, you’ll have a reliable, natural cleaning solution that’s ready whenever you need it.

Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and wasteful packaging—and hello to fresher, cleaner spaces the DIY way.