Learn how to make your own DIY soft scrub cleaning product to restore shine to ceramic and porcelain sinks, tubs, and more.
I never expected to get this excited about a cleaning product, but this simple, natural soft scrub changed how I feel about cleaning. Since I started using this three-ingredient recipe, I’ve been scrubbing my white kitchen sink nearly every day. It brightens the surface gently yet effectively, and it’s a great alternative if you prefer to avoid harsh bleaches and strong chemicals.
Having a clean sink makes the whole kitchen feel fresher and more cared for, even if other areas of the house are a bit neglected. If you’re moving toward fewer chemicals in your home, this cleaner is an easy swap — it’s made from simple, recognizable ingredients and works surprisingly well on common stains and rings.
This soft scrub is safe for most ceramic and porcelain surfaces, including sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. It’s not an abrasive powder, so it’s gentler than many store-bought scrubs while still being effective at lifting stains and removing grime.
Supplies to Make DIY Soft Scrub
- 3 tablespoons castile soap — a mild, plant-based liquid soap that acts as the cleanser and binder for the paste.
- 1 cup baking soda — a gentle abrasive and deodorizer that helps lift stains and remove residue.
- About 15 drops citrus essential oil (lemon, orange, or other citrus) — optional, but useful for scent and breaking down sticky residues. Use high-quality essential oil if you choose to add one.
These three ingredients are easy to find and inexpensive. If you prefer not to use essential oils, the scrub will still work well without them; the oil is mainly for scent and a slight boost in stain-fighting on sticky spots.
How to Make the Soft Scrub Cleaner
Mix the baking soda, castile soap, and essential oil in a medium bowl until you get a paste-like consistency. The mixture should be thick but spreadable. If it feels too dry, add a little more castile soap a teaspoon at a time until it holds together. If it is too runny, add a bit more baking soda.
Transfer the scrub to an airtight glass jar for storage. Glass is preferred because citrus oils can, over time, interact with some plastics. Keep the jar in a cool, dry place; the scrub will last for several weeks to months if kept sealed and dry.
How to Use It
- Dampen the surface or a cloth/soft brush with water.
- Apply a small amount of soft scrub to the area you want to clean.
- Gently scrub in circular motions with a soft cloth, sponge, or nylon brush. Avoid metal scouring pads that could scratch the surface.
- For stubborn stains or rings, let the paste sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Rinse well with warm water and wipe dry to avoid water spots.
This mixture worked on a persistent ring around my sink drain that nothing else removed. With a bit of elbow grease, the area improved dramatically — not always perfect, but much brighter and cleaner than before.
Tips and Precautions
- Test the scrub on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t affect your finish.
- Don’t use highly abrasive tools on delicate or enamel-coated surfaces; a soft nylon brush or cloth is usually enough.
- If you have sensitive skin, wear gloves when using concentrated cleaners or essential oils.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets. Essential oils should be used sparingly around pets and only after confirming the oil is safe for your household.
This soft scrub is an easy, low-toxicity option to help you move away from harsher commercial cleaners. It won’t necessarily erase deep scratches or permanent discoloration, but it brightens and refreshes surfaces without strong bleach fumes.
Have you tried making your own cleaning products? I’ve eliminated several conventional cleaners from my home and enjoy replacing them with simple, effective DIY options. Next on my list is experimenting with homemade laundry detergent to reduce chemical exposure further.
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- Why I Finally Hired a House Cleaner
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