Sydney’s very own queen of home cleaning, Krissy Marsh, a familiar face from The Real Housewives, has revealed her secret weapon for a sparkling home, and it’s surprisingly simple and incredibly cost-effective. Forget expensive, chemical-laden products; Krissy swears by a homemade cleaning solution that you can whip up yourself in minutes.
Krissy, who prefers to maintain a chemical-free environment in her own home, has perfected an all-purpose spray recipe that she claims is a game-changer. She shared her insights on The Edit podcast, highlighting how much we overpay for everyday cleaning supplies. “If you look at most of the cleaning products you use at home, the majority ingredient is water,” she explained. “So, you’re basically paying for water you get out of your own tap. People don’t realise how easy all this is. And it’s so cost effective!”
For those seeking a natural, non-toxic alternative to conventional cleaners, Krissy’s recipe is a must-try. It’s a straightforward blend of common household ingredients, proving that effective cleaning doesn’t require a hefty price tag or a cabinet full of specialised bottles.
Krissy Marsh’s All-Purpose Cleaning Spray Recipe
This recipe is designed to make approximately one litre of powerful, yet gentle, cleaning spray.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of mild liquid dish soap (Castile soap is an excellent choice)
- 1 litre of hot water
- ¼ cup of white distilled vinegar
- The juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil (optional, but recommended for a pleasant aroma)
Instructions:
- Begin by combining all the ingredients directly into a clean, large spray bottle (at least 1-litre capacity).
- Secure the lid and shake the bottle gently to ensure all the components are thoroughly mixed.
- Your all-purpose spray is now ready to use! Simply spray it onto surfaces and wipe clean with a cloth.
Tips for Use and Customisation:
- Smaller Batches: If you have smaller spray bottles, you can mix the ingredients in a large bowl or pot first, and then carefully distribute the solution among your individual bottles. This is a great way to have smaller, more manageable bottles around the house.
- Fragrance-Free Option: For individuals with sensitivities to fragrances, including essential oils, this recipe can be easily adapted. Simply omit the essential oils altogether and opt for an unscented dish soap. This will result in a highly effective, fragrance-free, and non-toxic cleaning solution.
- Alternative Essential Oils: If lavender isn’t your preference, feel free to experiment with other essential oils. Eucalyptus oil is another fantastic option, known for its cleansing properties and refreshing scent. You can also blend different oils for a custom aroma.
Where to Use Your Homemade All-Purpose Spray
The beauty of Krissy’s all-purpose spray lies in its versatility. It’s formulated to tackle a wide range of cleaning tasks throughout your home.
- Kitchen Surfaces: Countertops, stovetops, sinks, and cabinet fronts will all benefit from a spray and wipe.
- Bathroom Areas: Use it on sinks, vanities, tiles, and even the outside of your toilet.
- Living Room and General Areas: Wipe down tables, shelves, and other surfaces to keep them dust-free and clean.
- Laundry Room: Ideal for cleaning laundry room surfaces and appliances.
- Toilet and Shower Cleaning: For tougher jobs like cleaning your toilet bowl or shower, Krissy suggests a two-step approach. First, sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) onto the surface. Then, spray with your homemade solution and scrub. The combination of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar creates a more abrasive action, effectively lifting dirt, cutting through grease and grime, and tackling stubborn stains.
Important Considerations: When to Avoid Vinegar
While white vinegar is a powerful cleaning agent, its acidity means it’s not suitable for all surfaces. It’s crucial to be aware of where not to use your homemade vinegar-based spray to prevent damage.
- Natural Stone Surfaces: Avoid using vinegar-based cleaners on natural stone materials such as marble, granite, and quartz. The acid can etch and dull the finish of these beautiful surfaces over time.
- Hardwood Floors: The acidity can also strip the protective finish from hardwood floors, leading to damage and discolouration.
- Electronic Screens: Never use vinegar-based solutions on screens for televisions, laptops, or other electronic devices. The chemicals can damage the delicate coatings on these screens.
- Grout (Direct Application): While the diluted mixture in this recipe is generally safe for tile grout, it’s best to avoid applying undiluted vinegar directly onto grout lines. In its concentrated form, vinegar can be too corrosive and weaken the grout over time.
By understanding these limitations, you can ensure your homemade cleaner is used effectively and safely, keeping your home sparkling without causing unintended damage. Krissy Marsh’s simple, effective, and budget-friendly approach to cleaning is a testament to the power of natural ingredients and a little bit of DIY ingenuity.
