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This guide to DIY non-toxic bathroom scrub cleaners is perfect for anyone looking to create a safer, healthier home while effectively tackling soap scum, grime, and mildew without harsh chemicals.

Do you dread cleaning your bathroom, only to find that your current cleaners leave you with raw, red fingers and feeling light-headed?I’ve been there too.
Like most, I once believed that the harsher the chemicals, the cleaner my bathroom would be. I had a collection of half-used sprays, scrubs, and soaps under my sink, thinking they were keeping my home cleaner and healthier.
But then I made a troubling discovery– many popular bathroom cleaning products, like Soft Scrub and Scrubbing Bubbles, contain chemicals that were seriously harming my health and the environment.
The very products I relied on to clean my home were actually polluting the air I breathed and leaving behind toxic residues on surfaces my family touched every day.
As I dug deeper, I realized I needed to completely rethink my cleaning routine. I couldn’t continue exposing myself and my family to these dangerous chemicals, but I still wanted a spotless bathroom.That’s when I started exploring how I could make my own DIY non-toxic bathroom scrub cleaners.
In this article, I’ll share my most effective, affordable, and eco-friendly bathroom cleaning scrubs that can tackle everything from hard water to soap scum, mold, and mildew. You won’t need anything else to get your bathroom sparkling clean.
Once you learn about the shocking truth about the toxic ingredients in conventional bathroom scrubs you’ll be ready to toss them all out.
And when you learn how easy (and cheap!) it is to make these natural alternatives with baking soda, castile soap, and essential oils it will be a no-brainer.If you’re ready to ditch the harsh chemicals and create a safer, greener home, keep reading!
The Troubling Truth About Most Bathroom Scrub Products
- Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach) is far more dangerous than most people realize. This harsh disinfectant can damage DNA at the cellular level, potentially leading to mutations and increased cancer risk. Beyond its long-term effects, it’s an immediate threat as a severe respiratory irritant that can burn skin and eyes on contact.
- Benzisothiazolinone (BIT), a common preservative, doesn’t just cause skin irritation and allergic reactions – it may disrupt your endocrine system, affecting hormone balance throughout your body. When it washes down our drains, it continues its damage by poisoning aquatic ecosystems.
- Diethylene Glycol Propyl Ether sounds as dangerous as it is. This solvent irritates the respiratory system and can cause neurological symptoms. Animal studies suggest it may harm reproductive health, and its environmental impact when improperly disposed of is significant.
- Phthalates often hide in plain sight under the innocent-looking term “fragrance.” These endocrine disruptors can interfere with your body’s hormone system, potentially leading to developmental issues, hormonal imbalances, and other health problems. They persist in the environment where they accumulate, continuing to pollute ecosystems.
More Than The Obvious Risks
These chemicals don’t just pose a risk during cleaning. They leave behind residues on bathroom surfaces that continue to release toxic vapors, especially in the warm, humid environment of a shower. Every time you touch a faucet or flush the toilet, you may be exposing yourself to harmful substances.
The environmental cost is equally concerning. These chemicals contaminate water supplies, harm aquatic life, and contribute to air pollution. The ingredient manufacturing processes also leave a huge ecological footprint.

The Best Part Of Making My Own Bathroom Scrub Cleaner
- Health & Peace of Mind: Eliminate exposure to harmful chemicals that can cause respiratory issues, skin reactions, and hormone disruption. Create a safer environment for your loved ones, especially children and pets.
- Cost Savings: Homemade cleaners often cost pennies per ounce compared to commercial products. Buying ingredients in bulk leads to even greater savings over time.
- Less Environmental Impact: Reuse containers to reduce plastic waste. Natural ingredients break down safely in the environment without polluting ecosystems.
- Ingredient Control: Customize your cleaners with the ingredients that work best for your needs. Easily avoid allergens or irritants by hand-selecting each component.
Recipe 1: All-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner with Baking Soda and Castile Soap
This all-purpose bathroom cleaner is perfect for tackling soap scum and grime in your bathtub or shower. The combination of lemon, baking soda, and castile soap creates a powerful, yet non-toxic cleaning solution.
Ingredients:
- 1 lemon, cut in half
- ¾ cup baking soda
- ¼ cup castile soap
- 1 tablespoon distilled water
Instructions:
- Cut the lemon in half.
- Using the pulp side of the lemon, rub all over the tub using circular motions.
- Let the lemon juice sit while making the paste.
- In a separate bowl, combine the baking soda, castile soap, and distilled water.
- Mix well until the paste is spreadable but not too runny.
- Using a damp cloth, apply the paste to the tub in circular motions, concentrating on areas with soap scum buildup.
- Let the paste sit for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Recipe 2: Powerful Grout Cleaner
A lot of commercially made grout and tile cleaners contain chlorine bleach, so I try to avoid them at all costs. And when it’s so easy to make at home, I’d rather make it myself than make an unnecessary run to the store.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- ½ cup hydrogen peroxide
- 1 tablespoon non-toxic liquid dish soap or liquid castile soap
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and liquid soap.
- Mix well until the mixture forms a paste-like consistency, slightly more liquid than toothpaste.
To Use:
- Apply the paste along grout lines.
- Let sit for at least 30 minutes (the longer, the better), but do not let it dry.
- Scrub with a grout brush.
- Rinse away the solution using warm water.

Recipe 3: Gentle Shower Door Scrub
This gentle scrub is perfect for getting hard water spots off of shower doors without scratching the glass.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water
- ½ cup baking soda
- ½ cup non-toxic liquid dish soap (castile soap is not recommended since it may leave the glass streaky)
Instructions:
- Pour the warm water into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the baking soda and mix well.
- Add the dish soap and mix well.
To Use:
- Before scrubbing the shower door, test the mixture on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the baking soda won’t scratch the glass. If the baking soda is too abrasive, try using cornstarch instead.
- Using a damp cloth, apply the mixture to the shower door using circular motions, starting at the top and working your way down.
- Let the mixture sit for up to 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
- This mixture can also be used to clean the rest of your shower for regular maintenance.
- Do not keep/store this mixture. Create fresh each time you clean.

Recipe 4: Non-Toxic Tub and Tile Cleaner Scrub
This non-toxic tub and tile cleaner is perfect for tackling tough soap scum and grime without harsh chemicals. The combination of baking soda, castile soap, and lemon essential oil creates a powerful, yet gentle scrub that leaves your bathroom surfaces sparkling clean.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- ⅓ cup castile soap
- Distilled water
- 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil (or to preference)
Instructions:
- In a glass jar, combine the baking soda and castile soap.
- Gradually add distilled water while stirring until the mixture reaches the consistency of toothpaste.
- Add the lemon essential oil and mix well.
- You can scale this recipe to make more, keeping the ratio of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part castile soap.
To Use:
- Apply the paste to the soiled tile or tub using a damp cloth, similar to waxing a car.
- For extra grimy tubs or tiles, use a heavy-duty scrub brush to help cut through soap scum faster and get between grout lines and into corners.
- Let sit for 15-30 minutes to allow the lemon essential oil to break up oily soap scum.
- Rinse with warm water.
- If you notice remaining streaks of baking soda, spray with vinegar (which will turn the baking soda into salt) and rinse again.

Recipe 5: Tea Tree Mold & Mildew Buster
Don’t you hate it when you just can’t seem to get rid of that sneaky black mold and mildew that sits in the crevices of your shower? This solution is just what you’re looking for.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- 10 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 5 drops of lemon essential oil
- 1 tablespoon liquid Castile soap (optional)
- Spray bottle or small bowl
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle or small bowl, combine the baking soda and vinegar.
- Stir in the tea tree oil and lemon essential oil.
- If using, add the Castile soap and stir well.
To Use:
- Spray or apply the mixture directly to the affected areas (shower walls, grout, etc.).
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the ingredients to work.
- Scrub with a brush or sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
Tips:
- For tougher mold and mildew, increase the amount of tea tree oil.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands while cleaning.
- Before applying to a large area, test the mixture on a small, inconspicuous spot to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface.
- Ensure good ventilation while cleaning.
**Important Safety Tips
Even natural ingredients can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Always do a patch test before using a new cleaner, especially if you have sensitive skin. If you experience any redness, itching, or burning, discontinue use immediately.
When making your DIY cleaning recipes, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any strong fumes or particles. This is especially important when using ingredients like baking soda or borax, which can be irritating to the lungs if inhaled in large quantities.
Never mix vinegar and hydrogen peroxide together, either in the same container or by applying them one after another without thorough rinsing in between.
While both are excellent natural cleaners on their own, combining them creates peracetic acid – a hazardous chemical that can cause severe respiratory issues, chemical burns to skin and eyes, and potentially permanent lung damage.
When using recipes that call for either ingredient, complete that cleaning task and thoroughly rinse the surface before using any products containing the other ingredient.
Wearing Protective Gear
It’s a good idea to wear protective gloves and eyewear when making and using your DIY cleaning products. Rubber gloves will protect your hands from potential skin irritants and help you avoid transferring any bacteria or germs from your hands to the cleaning solution.
Keeping DIY Cleaning Products Out of Reach
Always store your homemade cleaners in clearly labeled containers and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
While the ingredients may be natural, they can still be harmful if ingested in large quantities. Consider using child-resistant bottles or storing your cleaners in a locked cabinet to prevent accidental ingestion.
By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy the benefits of your DIY non-toxic bathroom scrub cleaners with peace of mind, knowing that you’re keeping your family and home safe and healthy.
How Natural Ingredients Work To Effectively Clean Your Bathroom
Natural Abrasives
- Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) serves as a gentle yet effective abrasive that scours away grime while neutralizing odors. Its mild alkalinity helps break down grease and tackle light stains, making it perfect for daily cleaning.
- Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate) takes cleaning power up a notch with stronger alkalinity, making it ideal for tough stains and hard water deposits. Use it cautiously on delicate surfaces like glass shower doors or custom-finished fixtures.
Natural Disinfectants
- White Vinegar proves itself as a versatile cleaner that kills bacteria, dissolves mineral deposits, and cuts through soap scum. Its natural acidity makes it effective against common bathroom germs while remaining biodegradable and economical.
- Tea Tree Oil brings powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties to your cleaning arsenal, making it especially effective against bathroom mold and mildew. Its distinctive scent can be an advantage or disadvantage, depending on your preferences.
- Lemon Juice offers high acidity that naturally disinfects while dissolving hard water stains and leaving surfaces gleaming. Like vinegar, it’s biodegradable and affordable, though its acidity means it should be used carefully on stone surfaces.
Natural Surfactants
- Castile Soap, derived from vegetable oils, creates a rich lather that breaks down grime effectively while remaining gentle and biodegradable. It’s an excellent choice for households with children or pets.
- Non-Toxic Liquid Dish Soap (unscented) works similarly to castile soap in lifting away dirt and grease. Choose non-toxic dish soap without added fragrances or dyes to keep your cleaner as natural as possible.
Tips for Effective Cleaning with DIY Non-Toxic Bathroom Cleaners
Application Techniques: Scrubbing, Spraying, Soaking
- For paste-like cleaners (like the All-Purpose Bathroom Cleaner), apply using a damp cloth or sponge in circular motions.
- Spray cleaners (like the Tea Tree Mold & Mildew Buster) work well for covering larger areas or getting into tight spaces. Spray liberally and let the solution sit before scrubbing.
- For tough stains or mineral buildup, try soaking a cloth in your cleaner and letting it sit on the affected area for several minutes before scrubbing.
Tools Needed
Having the right tools can make cleaning much easier. Keep these on hand:
- Microfiber cloths for lint-free cleaning and polishing
- A soft-bristled brush for gentle scrubbing
- An old toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas and grout lines
- A squeegee for glass surfaces to prevent water spots
- Rubber gloves to protect your hands
Surface-Specific Tips
- Glass & Mirrors: Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface. Opt for a gentle solution like the Shower Door Scrub and use a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
- Ceramic Surfaces: Most homemade cleaners work well on ceramic. For tough stains, try the Powerful Grout Cleaner or Tub and Tile Scrub.
- Natural Stone (granite, marble, etc.): Be cautious with acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar, which can etch some stone surfaces. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners like castile soap and baking soda.
- Metal Fixtures: To clean without scratching, use a soft cloth and gentle cleaners. For tough mineral deposits, soak a cloth in vinegar and wrap it around the fixture for a few minutes before wiping clean.
- Grout Lines: Dip an old toothbrush into your cleaner of choice (the Powerful Grout Cleaner works wonders) and scrub gently. For mold and mildew, try the Tea Tree Mold & Mildew Buster.
Let the Cleaner Work Its Magic
One of the keys to effective cleaning is giving your homemade solutions time to break down dirt and grime. After applying your cleaner, let it sit for at least 5-15 minutes (or as directed in the recipe) before scrubbing. This allows the ingredients to fully penetrate and loosen buildup.
This has been your guide to the best DIY non-toxic bathroom scrub cleaner recipes for every surface in your bathroom.
Alright, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get scrubbing – the non-toxic way!
With these simple, affordable DIY bathroom cleaners, you can say goodbye to those harsh, headache-inducing chemicals and hello to a pristinely clean bathroom. Not only will your bathroom thank you, but so will your wallet and the planet.
So what are you waiting for?! Grab your baking soda, break out the essential oils– it’s time to show that soap scum who’s boss!
Your bathroom will be so fresh and so clean, you might just find yourself spending a little extra time in there. Happy scrubbing!
Explore more of our incredible Non-Toxic Cleaning articles:
- Non-Toxic Laundry Odor Removers
- Homemade Oven Cleaner Recipes
- DIY Non-Toxic Laundry Detergents
- Natural Baby Laundry Detergents
- Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
- Non-Toxic Dishwasher Tablets
- Laundry Detergent Sheets
- Non-Toxic Oven Cleaners
- Non-Toxic Air Fresheners
- Non-Toxic Dryer Sheets

References
- Gorman, A., & Tynan, M. (2002). Persistent endocrine disruptors in hazardous waste and their effects on wildlife. Environmental Health Perspectives, 110(2), 159-164. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11849739/
- Williams, K. M., et al. (2022). Environmental and health impacts of commercial cleaning products: A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(24), 16622. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36516622/
- California Department of Public Health, Hazard Evaluation System and Information Service. (2016). Understanding glycol ethers: A guide for workers [PDF file]. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/OHB/HESIS/CDPH%20Document%20Library/glycols.pdf
- Zhang, Y., et al. (2020). Health effects of household cleaning products: A comprehensive review. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 27(1), 32279-32291. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7559247/
- Johnson, R. (2019). The hidden hazards of cleaning residues. Cleaning & Maintenance Management. https://cmmonline.com/articles/the-hidden-hazards-of-cleaning-residues
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Danielle Alvarado
Danielle is a mother of three, Veteran, eco-living advocate and the founder, face and CEO of Sustainably Kind Living, one of the most loved sustainable living blogs. She is an expert in the field of non-toxic living and eco-friendly swaps for the home, closet, and garden.