
Scouring powder is a staple in many households, used to tackle tough stains and grime on surfaces. It's often a go-to solution for cleaning ovens, pots, and pans.
The commercial versions can be harsh on surfaces and the environment. But, did you know that you can make your own all-natural scouring powder at home?
Baking soda and water can be mixed together to create a paste that's gentle on surfaces and effective at removing stains. This combination is also non-toxic and biodegradable.
Using natural ingredients like baking soda and water can be a cost-effective alternative to commercial scouring powders.
Recommended read: 1 Tbsp Baking Powder Substitute
What is Scouring Powder?
Scouring powder is a type of cleaning product designed to remove stubborn stains and grime from surfaces.
It's typically made from a combination of abrasives and cleaning agents.
Natural Alternatives
Bon Ami is a natural cleaner that has been around for a while and earns an "A" rating from the Environmental Working Group. It works by scouring away dirt and grime with a physical action, rather than relying on chemical reactions.
This cleaner is a great option for those looking for a natural alternative, but some sources claim it may cause respiratory irritation. If you're concerned about safety, you can consider making your own homemade scouring powder using ingredients like baking soda and essential oils.
One recipe for homemade scouring powder uses a combination of baking soda, ground herbs, and essential oil, and is easy to make and inexpensive. You can also add a bit of borax to the mix if you need a tougher version, but be aware that borax has gotten mixed reviews on safety.
Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
Remember to mix all ingredients well and store in a covered jar or recycled shaker container.
Ingredients
When making natural alternatives, it's essential to start with the right ingredients. Baking soda is a great starting point, and you'll need a full cup of it for many recipes.
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that's perfect for scrubbing away tough stains and grime. I've found it to be especially effective in removing burnt-on food from pots and pans.

For some recipes, you'll also need salt. But make sure to use non-iodized salt, as iodized salt can leave behind a residue that's difficult to clean.
Here's a breakdown of the ingredients you'll need for some common natural alternatives:
- 1 cup baking soda
- ½ cup salt (not iodized)
- ½ cup washing soda
- 5 drops lemon essential oil (optional)
Washing soda is another key ingredient in many natural cleaning recipes. It's a powerful degreaser that's perfect for tackling tough grease and grime.
I've found that using washing soda in combination with baking soda and salt makes for a potent cleaning mixture that's gentle on surfaces yet tough on stains.
A Natural Cleaner?
I've been on the lookout for natural cleaning alternatives that are safe for my family, especially with little ones crawling around. Bon Ami is one cleaner that I still think is a good option, but I'll explain why.
It's a physical action-based cleaner that scrubs away dirt and grime without relying on chemical reactions. This means it's a great choice for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals.
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Unlike most cleaners, Bon Ami doesn't contain chlorine, dyes, or artificial fragrances, earning it an "A" rating from the Environmental Working Group.
However, some sources claim that Bon Ami may cause respiratory irritation, so it's worth considering other options.
Here's a simple three-ingredient recipe for a homemade herbal scouring powder that I've found to be just as effective:
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or lavender)
- 3 to 8 drops essential oil (adjust to your smell preference)
To use, simply sprinkle a small amount in your sink or tub and scrub with a sponge or old rag.
Homemade Bon Ami Substitute
This homemade Bon Ami substitute is a game-changer for natural cleaning.
The recipe has been updated to remove borax, a controversial ingredient that gets mixed reviews on safety.
It's inexpensive to make and cleans better than store brands without the vague smell of chemical warfare.
This natural homemade powder is safe for kids to use, even for scrubbing stuck-on messes and grime in the bathroom.
The recipe is easy to make and takes about a minute to prepare.
You can use this powder to clean everything from stuck-on floor messes to tile goo.
It's especially great for cleaning bathroom surfaces, like the tub, without exposing your skin to harsh chemicals.
This homemade powder has been put to the test, and it worked like a charm even after two weeks of neglect.
The results were impressive, with the powder effectively cleaning away tough grime and soap residue.
Herbal Variations
You can use a variety of herbs in your homemade scouring powder, from calming lavender to invigorating rosemary.
Some suggested herbs include basil, lavender, lemon balm, mint, oregano, sage, and rosemary. You can even use bits of dried flowers like Bachelor Buttons to add beautiful flecks of blue.
If you're looking for a citrusy scent, try using lemon, orange, lime, or grapefruit zest. These will add a bright and uplifting aroma to your scouring powder.
Here are some specific herb combinations you can try:
- Lavender Scouring Powder: 1/2 cup baking soda, 1 tablespoon ground lavender flowers, and a few drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
- Rosemary Scouring Powder: 1/2 cup baking soda, 1 to 2 tablespoons ground rosemary, and a few drops of rosemary essential oil (optional)
Remember, you can always adjust the amount of herbs to your liking, and add a few drops of essential oil for extra scent.
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