Bleach has long been the go-to for keeping our homes clean. But let’s face it: With its harsh chemicals and nose-wrinkling odor, bleach can sometimes feel like it does more harm than good. So, if you’re ready to break up with bleach and find some kinder, gentler alternatives, you’re in luck. Here are a few alternatives to bleach that will keep your home clean and fresh without toxicity.

1. Vinegar

This kitchen staple is a versatile ingredient for making natural cleaners. It’s non-toxic, inexpensive, and can tackle many cleaning tasks. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and you’ve got a powerful solution for disinfecting surfaces, cutting through grime, and even eliminating odors. Use it on countertops, bathroom tiles, and floors. The best part? You can still use it in your salad dressing!

When dealing with stubborn stains, apply undiluted vinegar directly to the spot, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub away. This works great on everything from coffee stains on countertops to hard water deposits on showerheads.

2. Baking Soda

If vinegar is the multitasking marvel, baking soda is its trusty sidekick. This natural abrasive is perfect for tackling tough cleaning jobs without scratching surfaces. Sprinkle it on a damp sponge to scrub sinks, bathtubs, and ovens. Combine it with a bit of water to create a paste for grout cleaning. Pair it with vinegar for an extra cleaning boost.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a fantastic alternative to bleach, especially for those who want a disinfectant without the harsh fumes. It’s great for sanitizing cutting boards, toothbrushes, and even your kitchen sponges. Just pour a little hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle, spray it on the surface you want to clean, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away.

Add a cup of hydrogen peroxide to your laundry to brighten whites and remove stains. It’s a safer alternative to bleach and won’t leave your clothes smelling like a chemistry lab.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice isn’t just for making lemonade. Its natural acidity makes it a powerful cleaner that’s perfect for tackling grease, soap scum, and hard water stains. Plus, it leaves a fresh, citrusy scent that’s infinitely more pleasant than bleach.

You can even polish metal surfaces with lemon juice. Cut a lemon in half, dip it in salt, and use it to scrub tarnished copper, brass, and chrome. The acid in the lemon juice combined with the abrasive salt will leave your metal surfaces gleaming.

5. Castile Soap

Castile soap is a biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaner made from vegetable oils. It’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin and incredibly versatile. Mix it with water for a multipurpose cleaner safe for all surfaces, from floors to countertops to dishes.

To create your own foaming hand soap, combine one part castile soap with four parts water in a foaming soap dispenser. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a custom scent, and you’ve got a gentle, moisturizing hand soap.

6. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a potent essential oil known for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It’s a great addition to your natural cleaning arsenal. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle for a natural disinfectant, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.

Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your laundry to kill bacteria and leave your clothes smelling fresh. It’s especially useful for towels and workout gear that tend to harbor odors.

7. Vodka

Believe it or not, vodka isn’t just for cocktails. This clear spirit is a fantastic cleaner and disinfectant. Use it to shine chrome fixtures, remove mold and mildew, and even eliminate odors. Just make sure you use the cheap stuff—save the good vodka for your martinis.

To remove odors from your space, fill a spray bottle with vodka and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Use it as a fabric freshener for upholstery, curtains, and even shoes. It’s a great way to keep your home smelling fresh without harsh chemicals.

8. Olive Oil

Olive oil isn’t just a kitchen staple—it’s also a fantastic natural cleaner. Use it to polish wood furniture and stainless steel appliances. Mix it with some lemon juice for a natural furniture polish that leaves your wood surfaces looking shiny and new.

Condition your wooden cutting board and butcher blocks by rubbing a small amount of olive oil into it to keep the wood moisturized and prevent drying out. It’s a natural way to keep your kitchen tools in top shape.