How to make it
- 1Measure baking soda into a bowl
Start with a completely dry bowl and dry measuring tools. Any moisture at this stage will cause the baking soda and castile soap to react prematurely and lose their cleaning power.
- 2Add castile soap slowly
Pour in the castile soap gradually while stirring. The mixture will thicken quickly. Stop adding soap when you reach a thick, spreadable paste consistency — similar to toothpaste.
- 3Add essential oils
Add tea tree and lemon essential oils and stir well to combine. These provide antimicrobial action and a clean, fresh scent.
- 4Adjust consistency with water
If the paste is too thick to spread, add water half a teaspoon at a time and stir. If too runny, add more baking soda. The paste should hold its shape on a sponge without dripping.
- 5Transfer to a wide-mouth jar
Spoon the paste into a glass jar. Label with the date. To use: apply a small amount to a damp cloth or sponge, scrub the surface in circular motions, and rinse thoroughly.
Castile soap is made purely from plant oils — no synthetic detergents, surfactants, or preservatives. It combines with baking soda without the gummy, sticky residue that conventional dish soap leaves behind. Dr. Bronner's is the most widely available brand, but any pure liquid castile soap works. Sal Suds is an equally good alternative for a more concentrated paste.
Surfaces guide
- Add 1 tbsp white vinegar to the final mix for extra grease-cutting power (stir vigorously as it fizzes)
- Use orange essential oil instead of lemon for a sweeter, warmer scent
- Add 1 tsp borax for extra whitening power on grout and tile
- Mix in 1 tbsp fine salt for a more abrasive paste suited to stubborn stovetop stains
- Add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil for a bathroom-specific version with a spa-like scent