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Homemade Non-Toxic Gentle Surface Scrub

Have you ever stared at stubborn grime on your stovetop or bathroom sink and wished for a powerful cleaner that wouldn’t damage surfaces—or your health? This homemade non-toxic gentle surface scrub is perfect for extra grimy messes and can replace oven cleaners and products like Barkeepers Friend, without the toxic chemicals!

Made with simple, natural ingredients like baking soda and castile soap, it has enough muscle to tackle baked-on messes without relying on harsh chemicals. Better yet, it’s easy to whip up with items you likely already have in your pantry and you can use it right away!

bowl stirring diy gentle surface scrub with baking soda

Designed to be mildly abrasive yet safe for a wide variety of surfaces, this DIY scrub is an excellent choice for eco-conscious households looking to keep things fresh and clean. Whether you’re restoring shine to your kitchen sink or dealing with everyday bathroom buildup, this gentle surface scrub is proof that you don’t need aggressive cleansers to achieve a spotless home.

Why Use a Non-Toxic Gentle Surface Scrub?

  • Great for scrubbing away tough grease and stains without scratching.
  • Safe alternative to harsh store-bought products like commercial oven cleaners or Barkeepers Friend.

What to Clean with a Natural Gentle Surface Scrub

  • Ovens
  • Stainless Steel Sinks
  • Bathroom Fixtures
  • Showers

Homemade Non-Toxic Gentle Surface Scrub Recipe

Ingredients & Supplies

  • ¼ cup baking soda
  • 4 teaspoons liquid castile soap
  • 1 teaspoon hydrogen peroxide
  • Bowl or container
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing
  • 5 drops lemon essential oil (Optional. I prefer to use whole plants instead of essential oils for our home. Plus, there are already some in the castile soap!).

(Note: Adjust quantities as needed for larger jobs.)

gentle surface scrub ingredients laid out on a rustic patterned backdrop

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix Baking Soda & Soap. In a bowl, stir together the baking soda and castile soap until it forms a paste.
  2. Add Hydrogen Peroxide. Slowly add the hydrogen peroxide while stirring. If the paste is too thick, add a bit more peroxide or a small amount of water.
  3. Optional Essential Oil. Add a few drops of lemon (or other preferred) essential oil for a fresh scent.
  4. Use Immediately or Store. For best results, use right away. You can store any leftover scrub in an airtight container for a few weeks (though it may dry out a bit).

How to Use Your Homemade Gentle Surface Scrub

  1. Apply Paste. Spread onto the grimy surface—oven door, stovetop, sink, etc.
  2. Let It Sit. Allow the paste to sit for 5–10 minutes for tough stains.
  3. Scrub & Rinse. Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or cloth to work away the grime.. Rinse with warm water or wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Tips & Considerations

  • Do not use on porous surfaces like marble or natural stone—baking soda can damage or dull them.
  • If the stored paste dries out, add a splash of water or peroxide to rehydrate.

FAQs about Natural Surface Scrubs

While “gentle” scrubs are designed to minimize scratching, there’s still some abrasive action from ingredients like baking soda. The risk of damage is low on sturdy materials (e.g., stainless steel, porcelain), but you should use light pressure and avoid scrubbing vigorously on softer or more delicate finishes. Always use a soft sponge or cloth rather than steel wool or harsh scrubbers.

Yes! This will leave a residue and you don’t want it to sit for too long. Simply wipe away with a wet washcloth.

It’s common for homemade scrubs to thicken, dry out, or separate over time. To fix this, add a small amount of water (or additional castile soap) and stir well until you reach your desired consistency. You can also store the scrub in an airtight container to slow down drying; give it a quick mix each time before use.

Harness The Power of Homemade Cleaners

Household staples like hydrogen peroxide can be excellent choices for DIY cleaner options.

Hydrogen Peroxide cleaning powers:

  • Gentle Bleaching Agent: Brightens surfaces and can help lighten stubborn stains.
  • Antimicrobial: Kills bacteria on contact, boosting disinfecting power.
  • Fizzes on Contact (in some recipes): Can help lift grime when combined with baking soda.
three natural cleaning supplies on a wood table

Non-Toxic Cleaning 101: Ditching Harsh Chemicals Step-by-Step

A guide to begin your toxic-free journey with my best tips and all of the best DIY cleaning solutions for your whole house!

By choosing this gentle surface scrub, you’re embracing a healthier, more sustainable cleaning routine—one that’s kind to both your home and the environment. Its natural ingredients offer plenty of scrubbing power for everyday messes, while steering clear of the harsh chemicals found in many commercial products.

With just a few minutes of prep and a short list of budget-friendly staples, you can keep your sinks, counters, and more looking brand-new. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what’s in your cleaning products and experience the satisfying sparkle of a scrub that truly lives up to its name!

Did you make this recipe?

Mention @brittanylgibson on Instagram so I can see your creations! You can also leave a comment below!

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A bowl of homemade cleaning solution sits on a stained surface next to a decorative crocheted flower, promoting a non-toxic surface scrub recipe

About the Author:

I’m Brittany, totally modern and mainstream turned crunchy mama!

Read more here about how I went from a totally incompetent cook and hyper-consumer to striving to live a more meaningful life from scratch.

I can’t wait to share my modern homesteading journey with you and I hope I inspire you to join along!

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Non-Toxic Gentle Surface Scrub Recipe

Non-Toxic Gentle Surface Scrub Recipe

Made with simple, natural ingredients like baking soda and castile soap, this surface scrub has enough muscle to tackle baked-on messes without relying on harsh chemicals.

Materials

  • ¼ cup baking soda
  • 4 teaspoons liquid castile soap
  • 1 teaspoon hydrogen peroxide

Tools

  • Bowl or container
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing

Instructions

  1. Mix Baking Soda & Soap. In a bowl, stir together the baking soda and castile soap until it forms a paste.
  2. Add Hydrogen Peroxide. Slowly add the hydrogen peroxide while stirring. If the paste is too thick, add a bit more peroxide or a small amount of water.
  3. Optional Essential Oil. Add a few drops of lemon (or other preferred) essential oil for a fresh scent.
  4. Use Immediately or Store. For best results, use right away. You can store any leftover scrub in an airtight container for a few weeks (though it may dry out a bit).
  5. Apply Paste. Spread onto the grimy surface—oven door, stovetop, sink, etc.
  6. Let It Sit. Allow the paste to sit for 5–10 minutes for tough stains.
  7. Scrub & Rinse. Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or cloth to work away the grime.. Rinse with warm water or wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Notes

Do not use on porous surfaces like marble or natural stone—baking soda can damage or dull them.

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