There’s something dangerously charming about tiny paper crafts.

You sit down thinking you’ll make one little bookmark, and suddenly there are fourteen scattered around the house in different colors because apparently every book now deserves accessories.

That’s exactly what happens with this origami heart bookmark.

It’s easy, low stress, ridiculously cute, and one of those projects that makes people immediately say, “WAIT. Show me how you made that.”

Which honestly is my favorite kind of craft.

I also love that these heart bookmarks are useful instead of just sitting around collecting dust. They slide right over the corner of a page with a little pocket in the back, so they actually stay put while looking adorable at the same time.

And yes, they’re perfect for Valentine’s Day.

You can tuck them into library books, add them to cards, surprise your mom with one inside a favorite novel, or make a pile for friends, teachers, and fellow book lovers. They’re especially fun for kids because decorating them is honestly half the fun.

The best part? You only need paper and a few minutes.

No hot glue gun.
No glitter explosion.
No crafting meltdown.

Just a simple fold-by-fold project that somehow turns a square piece of paper into a sweet little heart shape bookmark.

Honestly, origami feels a little magical every single time.

Choosing Paper for Heart Bookmarks

You can absolutely use regular origami paper for this project, but slightly thicker paper tends to hold up better if the bookmark gets moved in and out of books often.

The basic idea is simple: start with a square piece of paper and cut it in half to create a rectangle.

That rectangle shape matters because the ratio helps create the final design correctly. A 2:1 ratio works especially well for these bookmarks and keeps the finished project sturdy without feeling bulky.

My favorite size is 15 cm (6″ square) paper because it creates heart bookmarks that fit nicely over book corners without sliding around constantly.

And if you want to make them extra cute? Decorate them afterward. Add:

• stickers
• doodles
• funny faces
• Valentine’s Day sayings
• tiny messages
• markers
• conversation heart phrases

You can even personalize them with names or little notes before gifting them.

Honestly, once people realize how easy these are, they start making them constantly.

Why People Love This Bookmark

One of my favorite things about this origami heart bookmark is that it looks impressive without actually being difficult.

This isn’t one of those paper crafts requiring twelve hundred confusing diagrams and emotional resilience.

It’s beginner friendly.
It’s relaxing.
And the folding process is surprisingly satisfying.

You basically watch a flat rectangle slowly become a heart shape right in your hands.

Also, unlike some paper crafts, these actually get used.

They slip neatly over book corners, stay secure while reading, and make every book feel a little happier. They’re especially cute tucked inside romance novels, journals, planners, cookbooks, or favorite childhood stories.

And during Valentine’s Day? They’re honestly perfect.

You can pair them with candy, books, or handwritten notes for a sweet inexpensive gift that still feels thoughtful and personal.

Tips Before You Start

A few quick things help this project turn out cleaner:

• Make each fold carefully so the edges line up evenly.
• Press firmly or use a bone folder to create a sharp crease.
• Don’t use paper that’s overly thick or stiff.
• A square piece of paper creates the cleanest final result.
• Add stickers after finishing instead of during the folding process.

You can also experiment with patterned paper, metallic paper, or soft pastel shades depending on the occasion.

Personally, I love the classic red and pink versions for Valentine’s Day, but bright colors and playful patterns look adorable year-round too. Get started below!

Print

Origami Heart Bookmark

Learn how to make an origami heart bookmark in a matter of minutes! This is so easy, you'll want to make hundreds of them.

Course Crafts

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 1 heart

Cost $.25

Equipment

• Scissors

Ingredients

• Origami paper
• Clear tape
• Sharpie(s) optional

Instructions

• Fold the paper in half and then cut it along the fold. You will have two smaller, rectangular sheets of paper.
  
• Fold one of the rectangular piece of paper in half lengthwise (the top portion of the paper is open).
  
• Now fold the paper in half again.
  
• Open up the paper; you should see a fold in the middle.
  
• Fold up one side of the paper against the folded line.
  
• Repeat step 5 with the other side.
  
• Flip the paper over. Use a small piece of tape to hold both halves together.
  
• Fold down the top portions to start forming the top of the heart.
  
• Fold down the corners on either side of the top of the heart.
  
• Flip the paper over and the heart is complete. You can place over the corner of the page.
  

Video

You’ll find out that we love bookmarks around here! When you’re done trying this, check out our paint chip, cat, or confetti bookmarks. We’ve also got the following origami projects you should check out:

Bird • Boat • Butterfly • Cat • Crane • Cube • Frog • Lotus Flower • Star • Tulip

The post Origami Heart Bookmarks That Are Almost Too Cute to Use appeared first on DIY Candy.

Flipping through home magazines or scrolling endlessly through Pinterest can make you yearn for a whole house redesign. Who has the time (or money) for that?

Not many people. I don’t!

But still, I like to do a little renovating now and then. Most of us need to take it one room at a time and one project at a time. Today I’m going to talk about how you can inject a bit of your personality into your space with some budget-friendly kitchen craft ideas.

Kitchens can be one of the most expensive rooms to remodel. The most obvious ways to make an update and spend less are by painting walls, the cabinets, or light fixtures. But even that costs money, and lots of time.

If your budget is relatively small, there are still a lot of ways to update your kitchen. If you put a little time and effort into some DIY decor and organization crafts, you can get a new look without having to ask your parents for your inheritance.

I’ve come up with a list of thrifty DIY kitchen crafts – some big (like a range hood update) and some small (like new refrigerator magnets). Scroll down to check them out and then get started on your new kitchen!

Let me know which ones you try in the comments.

1

Plaid Crafts

Resin Cutting Board

This colorful resin cutting board looks beautiful displayed beside cookbooks while protecting surfaces during casual entertaining nights at home.

Get the Tutorial

2

Courtney Sanchez

Coffee Bar Sign

A cozy coffee sign instantly makes your morning setup feel warmer, friendlier, and honestly much more welcoming for sleepy humans. Inspired by Rae Dunn.

Get the Tutorial

3

DIY Clothespin Trivet

Wood clothespins become surprisingly cute trivets that are heat resistant and protect surfaces from hot pans while adding playful farmhouse-inspired texture throughout kitchens.

We also have some cool cork trivets if you'd like to check those out.

Get the Tutorial

4

DIY Wood Coffee Mug Rack

This beginner-friendly project displays favorite mugs beautifully while freeing cabinet storage and adding cozy coffeehouse-inspired personality to kitchens.

Here's another even more basic idea using metal IKEA parts.

Get the Tutorial

5

Distressed Mason Jar Storage

Distressed jars organize utensils, utensils, salt packets, and miscellaneous supplies while adding rustic charm beside your everyday bake essentials.

Get the Tutorial

6

DIY Tiered Tray

This simple stacked tray project creates vertical storage for mugs, snacks, fruit, or decorative accessories without crowding smaller kitchen spaces visually.

Get the Tutorial

7

Wall Hanging Produce Baskets

Looking for a creative and functional way to store your produce and free up kitchen counter space!? Try making your own hanging wall baskets! This DIY project is easy and will add a unique touch to your space. Uses wood planks and woven baskets.

Get the Tutorial

8

DIY Clay Fruit Bowls

Bright fruit-inspired details make this bowl feel cheerful and playful sitting directly in the middle of a kitchen table or on the kitchen counter.

Get the Tutorial

9

sincerelysarad.com

DIY Wood Look Painted Hood

This paint technique uses layered stain effects to create a warm rustic focal point without replacing expensive kitchen fixtures entirely.

Get the Tutorial

10

h2obungalow.com

Wood Spice Rack

This basic woodworking project creates a practical shelf keeping spices organized, visible, and always within easy reach while cooking.

Get the Tutorial

11

Painted Terra Cotta Herb Pots

Funny pun herb sayings make these painted pots feel playful displayed beside windows, shelves, or sunny corners where herbs naturally thrive.

We also have cute mini pots wrapped in twine here on the blog.

Get the Tutorial

12

Mason Jar Salt and Pepper Shakers

DIY mason jar salt and pepper shakers are cute, practical, and perfect for adding farmhouse charm to everyday meals.

Get the Tutorial

13

Stenciled Coffee Themed Tray

This coffee-inspired tray feels perfect for serving breakfast pastries, fruit, or cheese during relaxed weekends spent lingering around the kitchen together.

Get the Tutorial

14

David Cheaney

Rolling Pin Bookends

Vintage rolling pins become adorable bookends that keep favorite cookbooks upright beside every treasured family recipe collection beautifully.

Get the Tutorial

15

Clothespin Napkin Holder

This clothespin napkin holder is simple beginner project that keeps napkins organized while adding farmhouse charm beside your everyday dish towels and serving pieces. We've also got a clothespin clock you might like!

Get the Tutorial

16

Mini Wood Crate Centerpiece

Mini crates finished with dark stain create charming centerpieces filled with greenery, utensils, flowers, or seasonal decorative accents beautifully. Get supplies from the dollar store!

Get the Tutorial

17

DIY Cutting Board Wall Sconce

A rustic cutting board paired with hanging mason jars and a candle creates cozy farmhouse-inspired lighting with lots of vintage charm.

Get the Tutorial

18

Pizza Pan Lemon Decor

A painted pizza pan becomes bright citrus wall decor bringing cheerful summer energy into kitchens needing extra color immediately. This is a super easy Dollar Tree DIY and you won't believe what one of the supplies is.

Get the Tutorial

19

DIY Pallet Shelf

This DIY rustic shelf looks beautiful holding jars, plants, mugs, or candles while adding warmth above sinks or coffee stations.

Get the Tutorial

20

Marble Mugs

These swirled mugs (made with nail polish!) are easy enough for beginners but still look stylish displayed near coffee stations or open shelving arrangements.

Get the Tutorial

21

DIY Coffee Candles

Coffee-scented candle projects make kitchens smell warm and cozy without actually needing to bake anything delicious that particular afternoon.

Get the Tutorial

22

Faux Antique Serving Tray

An antiqued thrift store tray adds vintage charm while displaying candles, pitchers, utensils, or decorative accessories throughout the entire year.

Get the Tutorial

23

Recipe Box Makeover

This thrift store makeover turns a worn recipe box into meaningful storage preserving favorite family cards and handwritten memories beautifully.

Get the Tutorial

24

Floral Fridge Magnets

If you love the look of hand embroidery, these pretty floral magnets brighten the fridge while holding grocery lists, photos, recipes, and important reminders everyone immediately forgets otherwise.

Get the Tutorial

25

DIY Poster Hanger

This beginner-friendly wood tutorial creates simple hanging art that adds warmth without overpowering smaller kitchens or apartment spaces visually.

Get the Tutorial

26

Spray Paint Faux Flowers

Colorful painted flowers instantly brighten a kitchen counter or breakfast nook while requiring zero watering or sunlight whatsoever afterward.

Get the Tutorial

27

Wine Cork Wreath

Wine cork wreaths make charming decorations near entertaining spaces and look especially cozy throughout the holiday season months.

You can also make a ribbon wreath or coffee filter wreath to decorate your eating space.

Get the Tutorial

28

Quilted Pot Holder

These handmade holders are practical kitchen crafts that add color beside dish towels while protecting surfaces from hot bake dishes.

Get the Tutorial

29

Coloring Tea Towel

Use fabric markers to make unique dish towels with color to match your kitchen! This is adult coloring with a twist, and so easy. We also have some fun fruit stamped towels you should check out as well.

Get the Tutorial

30

Free Printable Kitchen Pantry Labels

Printable pantry labels organize ingredients beautifully while helping cereal, flour, pasta, salt, and baking supplies stay visually tidy inside jars. You can edit them, and they come in a beautiful farmhouse style.

Get the Tutorial

31

birdzofafeather.ca

Toaster Upcycle

A thrift store toaster becomes hilarious decor displaying succulents, herbs, or flowers while adding quirky vintage personality to kitchens.

Get the Tutorial

32

Courtney Sanchez

Wooden Spoon Makeover

Painted wooden spoon projects add color and personality while making ordinary utensils feel surprisingly decorative sitting inside crocks or jars. Seal with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge.

Get the Tutorial

33

modpodgerocksblog.com

Ransom Note Magnets

These funny magnets make the fridge feel playful while transforming random notes and reminders into miniature pieces of unexpected art.

Get the Tutorial

34

Chair Cushions

Fresh chair cushions instantly make a kitchen table feel softer, cozier, and dramatically more inviting during long conversations or meals.

Get the Tutorial

35

David Cheaney

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

Revamped hardware completely changes kitchen decor surprisingly fast without requiring expensive renovations or intimidating construction experience from beginners.

Get the Tutorial

36

KitchenAid Mixer Bowl Cover

This sewing tutorial keeps dust away while helping colorful mixers look polished sitting proudly out on display every single day.

Get the Tutorial

37

Farmhouse Sink Caddy

This practical organizer keeps soap, sponges, and dish towels contained neatly beside sinks without making countertops feel cluttered or chaotic.

Get the Tutorial

38

DIY Cutting Board Drink Coasters

Do you love a good wood scrap project? Tiny cutting board coasters are not only fun, but protect surfaces while adding playful farmhouse character to everyday entertaining spaces.

Get the Tutorial

39

Felt Ball Garland

Use felt balls and embroidery floss to add colorful and fun DIY garland that brightens a sideboard, cabinets, or window without overwhelming your existing kitchen decor style. We've also got a Christmas version for the holiday season.

Get the Tutorial

40

Lemon Kitchen Printables

Bright lemon printables add cheerful kitchen decor fast, especially when you want color without paint, tools, or commitment.

Get the Tutorial

Whether you love farmhouse style, colorful vintage decor, or practical storage ideas, these kitchen crafts make spaces feel warmer and more personal. Plus, many of these projects make great gifts for housewarmings, birthdays, holidays, or anyone obsessed with cozy kitchens.

Also please check out these other (related) popular posts:

Best IKEA Hacks • Bookends • Concrete Projects • DIY Table Decor • Globe Projects • How to Make Rugs • Photo Frames • Pillows • Plant Stands • Pool Noodle Wreaths • Wall Hangings • Wood Wall Art • Wood Lamps • Wooden Crate Decor

The post Unique Kitchen Crafts That Add Personality on a Budget appeared first on DIY Candy.

I never used to notice old wood.

Then one day I started spotting pallets behind stores, weathered boards near dumpsters, rough beams at salvage yards, and random scraps sitting on curbs during cleanup week. Suddenly I realized reclaimed wood projects are basically everywhere once your brain starts looking for them.

And honestly? It becomes a problem.

Because now every old project, broken fence, or stack of lumber starts looking like “potential.”

The best part about salvaged wood is the character. New boards are nice, sure, but old wood has personality already built in. Nail holes, worn edges, rough grain, splits, faded paint, old stains . . . all of those imperfections make projects feel warm and lived-in instead of factory fresh.

Plus wood is expensive now. Reusing old lumber just makes sense.

A lot of people start with pallets because they’re easy to find, but there are so many other sources too:

• barn wood
• fence boards
• deck scraps
• old cabinets
• demolished furniture
• salvaged beams
• leftover construction lumber

That history is what gives reclaimed wood projects their charm.

Now, before you start dragging home every sketchy board you see behind a grocery store, there are a few things to know. Old wood can hide nails, staples, and damaged spots, so de-nailing and trimming rough edges is important before starting any DIY build.

You’ll also want to check for cracks, rot, or major splits before cutting.

But honestly? Once you start working with upcycled wood, it’s hard to stop. There’s something ridiculously satisfying about giving old materials new life instead of throwing them away.

And the projects themselves range from beginner-friendly shelves all the way up to giant dining tables and barn doors that completely transform a room.

Personally, I’m obsessed with the coffee table and hose holder/planter. But the candle holder is dangerously tempting too.

Okay fine. I basically want to make all of these.

Where to Get Reclaimed Wood

Let me share some pro tips. You could buy it, but why spend when you can get it for free?

Yes, you heard that right. Free.99! Check Freecycle, community Facebook groups, or even Craigslist. You might be surprised at what people are willing to part with.

And here’s a fun tip: take a stroll behind your local grocery or furniture store. Spot any wood?

Politely ask the manager if you can take it off their hands – remember, sneaking it out is not an option unless you fancy starring in the next viral security camera footage!

Also, don’t forget to give your local contractors a buzz. They often have surplus wood from remodeling projects.

Are you ready to get started? Get over 30 ideas!

Projects Using Reclaimed Wood

1

Coffee Table

This DIY coffee table was inspired by a West Elm find for $999 – except we made our version for less than $50 using pallet wood. It's easy to do!

Get the Tutorial

2

Reclaimed Wood Floating Shelves

These floating shelves made from old fence boards add warmth, storage, and rustic texture without overwhelming the room visually. There are even thin invisible drawers built in!

If you want an even simpler version of shelves, make some with barn wood and black pipe.

Get the Tutorial

3

Barn Door Headboard

Old rescued barn doors create a dramatic farmhouse headboard that instantly becomes the focal point of an entire bedroom.

Get the Tutorial

4

www.ana-white.com

Dining Table

Mixed wood planks and visible grain patterns make this one of the most beautiful dining tables for rustic farmhouse-style homes right now.

Get the Tutorial

5

Hose Holder

A reclaimed wood hose holder with a built-in planter box adds charm while making outdoor storage feel surprisingly stylish and intentional.

Get the Tutorial

6

Kitchen Island from an Old Shed

Salvaged lumber and reclaimed 2 x 8s transform an old shed into a gorgeous rustic kitchen island with incredible warmth and texture.

Get the Tutorial

7

Reclaimed Wood Farmhouse Bench

This rustic bench build upcycles weathered lumber beautifully while adding cozy farmhouse seating to porches, mudrooms, or entryways.

Get the Tutorial

8

Reclaimed Balusters Console Table

Architectural salvage pieces and reclaimed floor boards create a gorgeous console table with major vintage farmhouse personality and tons of texture.

Get the Tutorial

9

Rustic Reclaimed Wood Picture Frame

Weathered boards and aged hardware create picture frames that instantly make family photos feel warmer, cozier, and more meaningful.

Get the Tutorial

10

DIY Blanket Ladder

Reclaimed deck lumber transforms into stylish blanket storage that works beautifully for living rooms, bedrooms, or cozy farmhouse decorating styles.

Get the Tutorial

11

Entry Bench and Cubbies

Reclaimed 100-year old barn wood creates one of those hardworking entry solutions that somehow hides and organizes clutter while still looking stylish and welcoming.

Get the Tutorial

12

Rustic Salvaged Wood Sign

Old boards, nails, wood letters, and distressed paint combine into oversized farmhouse wall decor with lots of rustic wood personality.

Get the Tutorial

13

sustainmycrafthabit.com

Hairpin Leg Sofa Table

Weathered wood pairs with sleek hairpin legs create one of those reclaimed wood projects that somehow feels both rustic and modern.

Get the Tutorial

14

Kitchen Cart from an Old Cabinet

An outdated cabinet gets new life as a rustic rolling kitchen cart complete with shelves, workspace, and reclaimed wood charm.

Get the Tutorial

15

Pallet Shelf

This easy wood shelf is beginner-friendly and adds instant farmhouse charm above desks, couches, or kitchen counters beautifully.

Get the Tutorial

16

Coat Rack from an Old Desk Panel

Hooks, wood ledges, and chalkboard paint transform salvaged furniture into functional farmhouse storage perfect for busy family entryways.

Want another cool idea? This rack was made from a ladder!

Get the Tutorial

17

Patchwork Wood Wall Art

Scrap boards, stain, and layered patterns create oversized wood wall art packed with warmth, texture, and southwestern-inspired reclaimed wood style.

Get the Tutorial

18

www.viewalongtheway.com

Octagon Mirror

Instead of buying expensive decor, use reclaimed boards to frame a dramatic geometric mirror full of rustic texture and personality.

Get the Tutorial

19

www.twoityourself.com

Rustic Wood Clock

Old boards become oversized farmhouse wall decor with tons of texture, character, and cozy reclaimed wood charm throughout the entire piece.

Get the Tutorial

20

Wine Rack from a Pallet

This pallet wood wine rack highlights rough grain and weathered texture while adding rustic storage for bottles and glasses beautifully.

Get the Tutorial

21

Reused Beadboard Tray

This reclaimed tray turns salvaged beadboard into charming breakfast-in-bed decor with tons of vintage farmhouse appeal and personality.

Want another cool idea? Check out this picture frame tray.

Get the Tutorial

22

Barn Wood Candle Holder

A chunky reclaimed beam transforms into a dramatic candle holder that looks straight from an expensive farmhouse decor boutique.

Get the Tutorial

23

uniquecreationsbyanita.com

Round Barn Quilt Table

This colorful table gives an old project new life with geometric wood details that instantly become a conversation starter indoors.

Get the Tutorial

24

Calavera Art

Pallets become colorful statement wall art with this bold skull design that works beautifully for year-round eclectic decorating styles. Perfect for Dia de Los Muertos!

Get the Tutorial

25

craftsbyamanda.com

Distressed Garden Sign

Old lumber and paint combine for charming outdoor decor that adds personality and handmade character to flower beds or gardens.

Get the Tutorial

26

Planter Box Using Fence Posts

Old fence boards become rustic planter boxes perfect for flowers, herbs, vegetables, or cozy cottage-style porch decorating outdoors.

Get the Tutorial

27

www.thehandymansdaughter.com

Potting Bench

Turn salvaged lumber into a hardworking gardening station complete with storage, workspace, and serious cottagecore backyard energy for spring planting.

Get the Tutorial

28

www.funkyjunkinteriors.net

Garden Walking Path

Reclaimed pallet wood creates a charming winding garden path that instantly makes outdoor spaces feel more whimsical and inviting.

Get the Tutorial

29

Reclaimed Wood Fence

Weathered boards and vintage signage combine for a rustic fence project packed with farmhouse charm and tons of outdoor character.

Get the Tutorial

30

www.martysmusings.net

Rustic Wood Chargers

These distressed chargers use reclaimed lumber (fence boards) to create warm farmhouse table decor perfect for entertaining, holidays, or everyday dining tables.

Get the Tutorial

31

ana-white.com

Storage Bed with Drawers

This reclaimed wood bed combines smart storage with rustic style for one of the most practical DIY furniture builds on the list.

Get the Tutorial

If you enjoyed these reclaimed wood projects, I think you’re going to like these other posts:

Bookends • Concrete Projects • Globe Projects • Easy Woodworking Projects • IKEA Coffee Table Hacks • IKEA Hacks • IKEA Lack Hacks • Light Fixtures • Refurbished Dressers • Step Stools • Wood Lamps • Wooden Crate Decor

The post 30+ Reclaimed Wood Projects That Look Surprisingly Expensive appeared first on DIY Candy.

I have a complicated relationship with cleaning products.

On one hand, I love a sparkling clean bathroom. On the other hand, a lot of store-bought cleaner products give me headaches so intense I suddenly need to lie down and rethink my entire life.

So over the years I’ve started making more of my own DIY cleaning recipes using simple ingredients that don’t leave my house smelling like a chemical factory exploded.

And honestly? Some homemade recipes are kind of disappointing.

This one is not.

This DIY soft scrub recipe is one of my favorite homemade cleaner recipes because it actually has extra cleaning power while still being gentle enough for everyday use in the bathroom and kitchen. It works beautifully on dirt, grime, soap scum, kitchen sinks, grout, and all those mysterious gross spots nobody wants to discuss publicly.

Especially around the tub.

You know exactly what I’m talking about.

One thing I really like about this cleaner is that it uses ingredients most people already have sitting around the house. Baking soda gives the scrub its gentle abrasive texture, while castile soap helps break through dirt and oily residue without making the mixture overly harsh.

And unlike some DIY recipes floating around online, this one avoids combinations that can create unnecessary issues.

For example, you’ll see a lot of people recommending vinegar and baking soda together for cleaning. While that bubbling reaction looks exciting, vinegar basically neutralizes baking soda over time. So unless you’re using the cleaner immediately, you’re mostly creating fizzy disappointment.

Hydrogen peroxide is another ingredient that gets added to a lot of homemade scrub recipes. And yes, hydrogen peroxide can help with stubborn stains. But when peroxide mixes with baking soda inside a sealed jar or airtight container, carbon dioxide can build up over time.

That means pressure.

And honestly I don’t need my bathroom cleaner exploding dramatically under the sink while my kids and pets are nearby.

So this soft scrub recipe keeps things simple, effective, and easy to store at room temperature.

Why This DIY Soft Scrub Works

This cleaner has the thick texture of store-bought soft scrub but without the overwhelming chemical smell.

It’s especially good for:

The baking soda gives just enough scrubbing action to tackle grime without scratching surfaces, while castile soap helps loosen dirt and residue so everything wipes away more easily.

I also love adding an essential oil for scent. Tea tree essential oil is popular because it naturally smells fresh and clean, but lemon essential oil works really well too.

And yes, the mason jar absolutely makes the whole thing feel cuter. That matters to me.

Tips for the Best Results

Use a Damp Sponge

A damp sponge works best for most surfaces because it spreads the cleaner evenly without making the mixture too watery.

Try a Scrub Brush for Grout

For stubborn stains, use a scrub brush instead of a damp cloth. It makes a huge difference in less time.

Store Properly

Keep the scrub inside an airtight container or sealed jar at room temperature so it stays soft and usable longer.

Don’t Add Vinegar to Stored Batches

I know vinegar shows up in basically every cleaning article on the internet, but mixing vinegar directly into stored baking soda mixtures reduces effectiveness.

Be Careful with Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda can create carbon dioxide inside sealed containers over time. If you want to experiment with peroxide, make very small fresh batches only.

Can You Customize the Scent?

Absolutely. You can add almost any essential oil you like depending on the scent you want in the bathroom or kitchen.

Some good options: tea tree, lemon, lavender, grapefruit, or eucalyptus.

I usually add about 10 to 15 drops of essential oil total depending on how strong I want the scent.

Print

Homemade Soft Scrub

Make your own soft scrub using simple ingredients and a few minutes of mixing. This cleaner is budget friendly and works great in the bathroom and kitchen.

Course Cleaning Tips

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 1 jar

Cost $2

Equipment

• Mason jar
• Spoon or popsicle stick
• Measuring cup(s)

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup Pure Castile soap
• 15 drops Essential oil(s) 10 to 15 drops, optional
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

• Combine the baking soda with the Castile soap in a measuring cup, or a big bowl if you're making a batch. Stir, stir, stir to make a thick paste.
  
• Add the water slowly, mixing until the scrub reaches a soft, spreadable consistency.
  
• Add the essential oil if desired and stir the mixture again.
  
• Transfer to a mason jar or airtight container for storage.

Notes

• Store the scrub in a sealed jar or airtight container at room temperature.
• To use, apply with a damp sponge or scrub brush and work into the surface gently.
• Wipe away cleaner residue using a damp cloth and rinse well.
• This DIY soft scrub works especially well in the bathroom on soap scum, dirt, grime, tubs, grout, and kitchen sinks.
• Avoid adding vinegar directly to stored batches because vinegar neutralizes baking soda over time.
• Hydrogen peroxide can create carbon dioxide pressure buildup in sealed containers if mixed and stored together.
• Keep away from kids and pets just like any household cleaner.

I hope you enjoy this soft scrub recipe as much as I do. Once you realize how easy it is to make your own cleaner, it’s honestly hard to stop experimenting. If so, leave me a comment – plus I’d love for you to check out these other posts:

Carpet Deodorizer • Granite Cleaner Recipe • Home Headlight Restoration •
How to Dye a Faded Hat • Silica Gel Uses

The post Easy DIY Soft Scrub with Simple Natural Ingredients appeared first on DIY Candy.