Homemade or store-bought Cleaners?

What’s Worth the Hype: Homemade vs. Store-Bought Cleaners?

Let’s talk about one of the most common questions we get asked at Squeaky Clean Services: Is it better to use homemade cleaners or store-bought products? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but we’ll break down what we use, why we use it, and what might work best for you based on your needs, preferences, and sensitivities.

Our Go-To Homemade Spray (You’ll Want to Bottle This Scent)

Growing up, my grandma swore by peppermint when it came to cleaning. She believed in its power to freshen up a room, clear the air, and leave behind a scent that somehow felt both clean and comforting. To this day, the smell of peppermint instantly takes me back to being a kid—running around barefoot, the house spotless, and everything smelling crisp, cool, and calm.

So, when I started Squeaky Clean Services, I knew I wanted to bring that same feeling into the work we do. That’s why our signature main spray features peppermint oil. Not only does it smell amazing, but it also honors those memories—and gives our clients that same sense of freshness and nostalgia. Water, Dawn dish soap, and peppermint essential oil. It’s simple, natural, and smells amazing. Think fresh, clean, and minty—not chemical-heavy or overpowering. One of the best parts about making your own cleaner is that it lasts longer than most store-bought all-purpose sprays. Plus, you can completely customize the scent and ingredients based on your mood or the season.

Want something more calming? Try lavender oil. Something floral? Go for lilac or honeysuckle. A great tip: check out Mrs. Meyer's dish soaps—they have a beautiful variety of scents like basil, lemon verbena, and, yes, even peppermint. You can match your dish soap to your essential oils for a boosted fragrance that’s still gentle and natural.

And here’s the bonus: this spray isn’t just for counters. Pour a bit into a bucket, and it works wonders on floors too. It’s safe, non-toxic, and super versatile.

When Store-Bought Makes Sense

While we love a good DIY, store-bought products have their place too—especially if you're dealing with tough messes or need something with a stronger scent. If you don’t have any allergies or sensitivities and love that just-cleaned, fresh fragrance, Pinallen is a fantastic option. It’s affordable, concentrated, and smells super clean. You can dilute it into a spray bottle or a mop bucket the same way you’d use your homemade mix.

We also have to shout out Clorox wipes—some of their newer scents like coconut or tropical sunshine actually smell incredible and feel less harsh than the classic bleachy versions. And while we wouldn’t recommend trying to make your own bleach (seriously, save yourself the headache), it’s one of the few store-bought products we regularly purchase for those deep-clean or high-sanitation jobs.

Final Thoughts: It’s All About Balance

At Squeaky Clean Services, we strike a balance between both. We use our homemade spray daily because it’s natural, cost-effective, and customizable. But we also lean on store-bought staples for specific tasks or when clients request certain scents or strengths.

If you’re sensitive to strong cleaners or just want to take more control over what you’re breathing in and putting on your surfaces, start experimenting with your own blends. A little Dawn, a few drops of essential oil, and a spray bottle can go a long way.

In the end, the best cleaner is the one that works for you—whether it’s mixed in your kitchen or bought from the shelf.