Natural Kitchen Scrub

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

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

This 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 effective
½ cup baking soda
→ Lifts grime, neutralises odours
¼ cup white vinegar
→ Cuts grease, removes stains, disinfects
2 tbsp Castile soap
→ Plant-based and gentle; breaks down grease
2 tbsp lemon juice
→ Natural degreaser, adds a fresh scent
10 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!

My Regenerative Wellness

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