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How to make a DIY "Daily Stainless Cleaning Spray" at home

by Corrine Sultana in Resources

Making your own spray is a great move. Commercial stainless steel cleaners often use petroleum-based solvents or silicones that can build up and make the surface "gummy" over time.

The best DIY recipes use rubbing alcohol because it evaporates almost instantly, which is the secret to preventing those annoying streaks.

The "Streak-Free" Daily Spray

This recipe is designed for a 450ml / 16 oz glass spray bottle. It cleans away grease and fingerprints while leaving a high-shine finish.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Distilled Water: (Tap water contains minerals that cause water spots).
  • ½ cup Rubbing Alcohol (70% Isopropyl): The key for a fast-drying, streak-free finish.
  • ½ cup White Distilled Vinegar: Cuts through grease and grime.
  • 10–15 drops Essential Oil: Lemon or Sweet Orange are best for cutting grease; Lavender adds a nice scent.
  • Optional Secret Ingredient: 1 tsp Cornstarch. (Sounds weird, but it acts as a very mild abrasive to break water bonds for a "liquid glass" look).

Instructions

  1. Combine: Use a funnel to pour the alcohol, vinegar, and water into your glass bottle.
  2. Add Scent: Drop in your essential oils.
  3. Shake: Close the bottle and shake well before every use (especially if you added cornstarch, as it will settle at the bottom).
  4. Label: Always label your bottle clearly so you don't confuse it with other cleaners!

How to Use It Like a Pro

  1. Mist Lightly: You don’t need to soak the appliance; a light mist is more effective.
  2. Wipe with the Grain: Using a clean microfiber cloth, wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain.
  3. The Buff Finish: Flip the cloth to a dry side and give it one final buff. This removes any micro-moisture before it can dry into a streak.

A Quick Note on Glass Bottles

Since you are using essential oils, a glass bottle is a smart choice. Citrus oils (like Lemon or Orange) can actually degrade certain types of thin plastics over time, but glass is completely non-reactive and will last forever.

Safety Warning:

Never use this (or any vinegar-based cleaner) on natural stone like granite or marble countertops. The acid in the vinegar will "etch" the stone and cause permanent dull spots.

Tags: Cleaning
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