Twenty-two products you buy regularly that you can genuinely make at home. Most cost a third of retail; several are healthier. Not a survivalist project — a practical list of where home-made actually wins.
Cleaning (5)
- All-purpose spray: water + white vinegar + essential oil.
- Glass cleaner: water + vinegar + dish soap.
- Scouring paste: baking soda + castile soap.
- Laundry detergent: borax + washing soda + grated castile.
- Toilet bowl cleaner: baking soda + vinegar + essential oil.
Personal care (6)
- Body scrub: coconut oil + sugar + essential oil.
- Lip balm: beeswax + coconut oil + vitamin E.
- Deodorant: arrowroot + baking soda + coconut oil.
- Face mask: clay + honey + aloe vera.
- Hair mask: coconut oil + honey + egg.
- Toothpaste: coconut oil + baking soda + peppermint oil. (Not for everyone — check with your dentist.)
Food staples (6)
- Vinaigrette: olive oil + vinegar + mustard + honey.
- Bread: flour + water + salt + yeast.
- Yogurt: milk + starter culture.
- Pickles: cucumbers + vinegar + salt + spices.
- Granola: oats + honey + nuts + oil.
- Spice blends: taco seasoning, curry powder, Italian mix.
Garden / outdoor (5)
- Bug repellent: witch hazel + essential oils.
- Fertiliser: compost + water + fish emulsion.
- Weed killer: vinegar + salt + dish soap.
- Bird feeder: milk carton or wine bottle + seed.
- Citronella candles: soy wax + citronella oil.
Most of these work as well as the commercial version; some are genuinely better. The savings add up, and the satisfaction of making is real — but the main payoff is knowing exactly what's in the things you use daily.
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