It’s a bold statement, but this DIY natural shower scrub made from a few common household items has changed my life. In addition to effectively battling mildew and grime, this cleaner is non-toxic and free of nasty fumes. Plus, it’s super easy to make. All you need is baking soda, white vinegar, and water. You can also spruce it up with tea tree oil and fresh lemon juice. Both enhance scent and contain antimicrobial properties.

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an exceptionally versatile cleaning agent and deodorizer. Not to mention it’s highly affordable when purchased in bulk. White Vinegar is another amazing, cheap natural cleaning agent that combats mold and can fight germs.

Ok, so how do you turn these basic ingredients into a shower scrub?

1. In a medium spray bottle, mix one-part white vinegar and one-part water. If you have tea tree oil on hand, add 20-30 drops.
2. Pour a cup of baking soda into your tub. Then, mix a little water in with a damp sponge to create a paste. For a little extra abrasive power, use lemon juice instead of or in addition to water. Use a little elbow grease to scrub this mixture over your tiles, grout, and tub.  To tackle more stubborn areas, scrub with an old toothbrush.
3. Next, spray the vinegar-water mixture over the baking soda and wipe down with the damp sponge to rem. If needed, use Q-tips to do some fine-tuning

by Sophie Slater