Cleaning stubborn stains from pots, pans, and kitchen surfaces doesn’t have to involve harsh, chemical-based cleaners. This natural kitchen scrub offers a gentle, effective solution using eco-friendly ingredients that are kind to your skin and the environment. With ground eggshells as a natural abrasive and the power of lemon juice and vinegar, this recipe gives you a powerful clean—without the toxic side effects.
Why Choose a Natural Kitchen Scrub?
Most supermarket cleaning products contain chemical ingredients that can irritate your skin, affect indoor air quality, and contribute to environmental damage. Common culprits include:
- Phthalates – Found in synthetic fragrances; linked to hormone disruption
- Ammonia – Causes respiratory irritation and long-term exposure risks
- Sodium Hydroxide – Common in oven cleaners; can cause severe burns
- Triclosan – An antibacterial agent contributing to antibiotic resistance
By making your own DIY cleaning products, you have full control over what goes into your home—and your lungs. Plus, it’s a simple way to cut down on plastic waste and packaging.
Natural Kitchen Scrub
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesThis gentle yet effective scrub can be used on stainless steel, ceramic, tile, and glass surfaces. It’s not recommended for soft plastics or non-stick cookware, as the eggshells may scratch.
Ingredients
½ cup ground eggshells
→ Natural calcium-rich abrasive, biodegradable and effective½ cup baking soda
→ Lifts grime, neutralises odours¼ cup white vinegar
→ Cuts grease, removes stains, disinfects2 tbsp Castile soap
→ Plant-based and gentle; breaks down grease2 tbsp lemon juice
→ Natural degreaser, adds a fresh scent10 drops essential oil (optional)
→ Try lemon, eucalyptus or tea tree for added antibacterial power
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Eggshells
Rinse eggshells thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
For best results, place them in a 90°C (194°F) oven for 1–2 hours.
Once dried, grind into a fine powder using a blender, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle. - Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine ground eggshells and baking soda. - Step 3: Add Liquids
Slowly pour in the vinegar, Castile soap, and lemon juice.
Stir gently until a paste forms. - Step 4: Add Essential Oils (Optional)
Add 10 drops of your chosen essential oil and mix through. - Step 5: Store
Transfer your scrub to a glass jar or reusable container.
Label it with the contents and date.
Notes
- How to Use the Scrub
Scoop a small amount onto a damp cloth or sponge.
Gently scrub the surface using circular motions.
Rinse with warm water and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Works well on stainless steel sinks, stovetops, tiled splashbacks, glass surfaces, and ovens. - Shelf Life & Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Keeps well for up to 3 months if kept dry.
If it hardens over time, add a splash of warm water and mix to loosen before use.
Ditch Disposable Sponges
Instead of using plastic-based commercial sponges (which are breeding grounds for bacteria), try cutting up old tea towels or cotton T-shirts into reusable cleaning cloths. They are:
- Washable and long-lasting
- Free from synthetic microplastics
- A great way to repurpose old textiles and reduce landfill waste
What’s in a Typical Kitchen Sponge?
Most kitchen sponges are made from petroleum-derived polyurethane or polyester. These:
- Release microplastics into waterways
- Absorb bacteria and mould quickly
- Break down slowly, contributing to landfill over time
Switching to natural cloths or biodegradable loofahs is a small change with a big environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
Making your own DIY natural kitchen scrub is an easy, budget-friendly way to keep your kitchen clean while protecting your health and the planet. Eggshells provide a gentle but effective abrasive, while baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice deliver powerful cleaning without harsh toxins. Pair it with reusable cloths, and you’ve got a complete low-tox kitchen solution.
Give it a try—and feel good about what you clean with!
