Eco-friendly/simple cleaning recommendations?

[roamingcat]

Hi all,

I would like to move away from the traditional brands which are stocked in the supermarket and was wondering whether anyone had any suggestions for brands that are actually eco-friendly and/or super simple? e.g. something I can use for loads of tasks. I've seen people suggesting cleaning using essential oils or citric acid etc but I'm not sure what you can actually use these for - bonus points for any book/website/youtube recommendations that easily break it all down! I'm in a hard water area so need something that'll tackle limescale but no pets or children.

Basic cleaning solution - white vinegar, good squirt of washing up liquid, optionally a cap of zoflora or similar, topped up with water. I think I originally started with a recipe online, now I just do it by eye.

I use only 3 products white I buy in bulk.
White vinegar put in a spray bottle half diluted with water for any spray cleaning in the kitchen and bathroom. I don't mind the smell and it doesn't last long.
Citric acid for cleaning the loo and shower/bath.
Soda crystals have had me on a manic cleaning spree this week as everything they're used on comes up so clean.
Nancy Birtwhistle on IG has good tips.

*which

All I seem to ever need is:
sodium bicarbonate
white vinegar
essential oil spray from puressentials
method surface spray (99% natural)

I still resort to washing up liquid for grease and bleach or harpic for toilet though.

I really like a brand called Lavender & Lemon. I've tried making my own cleaning stuff and also a lot of different eco friendly products and this brand is really nice and the spray smells amazing. It's all natural. A little expensive but the spray can be used on everything and cleans really well so it can replace a lot of different cleaners so actually if you add it all up it probably works out the same as if you had to buy multiple cleaners. You can follow the brand on Instagram too and see how the lady who runs it makes everything. I think she's in Wales. There's a powder too which is amazing for cleaning the oven. I really rate the products.

What's your priority for 'eco'- low artificial chemicals, low carbon, low waste, ethical company etc as the answer is probably different...

I make my own cleaning products using varying mixes but do include eg zoflora / washing up liquid so these are low waste / low carbon but not low chemicals....

Apparently you can use some essential oils in cleaning. Different essential oils have different cleaning benefits. For example some like peppermint and oregano have antifungal properties so they would be useful in protecting against mould and mildew in the home. Tea tree and thyme have antibacterial qualities so might be used in the kitchen. If you're interested in using chemical alternatives essential oils for cleaning can be an option.