Swiffer Wet Jets make it so incredibly easy to clean up any kind of mess on the floor—even my preschooler’s sticky grape juice spills. But, what I don’t love is the price tag on the refill solution. The stuff costs about $7 at my local superstore. Fortunately, I learned how to save money making my own Swiffer solution. In fact, I’ve got three tried and true recipes.

What’s great about Swiffer as a popular cleaning tool is that it’s designed to efficiently clean floors and surfaces without leaving any residue or streaks. And all of our DIY solutions include a few simple ingredients—most of which are items you probably already have, like vinegar.

So, if you’re tired of spending a fortune on those Swiffer refills, start reading. And, if you’re into saving money on cleaning supplies (or any household goods), download the Krazy Coupon Lady app.

 

Homemade Swiffer WetJet Solution #1

If you’re a fan of using Murphy’s Oil Soap to clean your floors, you’ll be happy to know that it can also be used in a DIY Swiffer solution. The soap is effective in cleaning and conditioning your floors, leaving a shiny and polished look.

Since it’s made from natural ingredients, it’s safe to use on most types of flooring, including hardwood, tile, and laminate. If you’re unsure about its use on your floor, spot test a small area first.

1. Fill a bucket or large pitcher with 2 quarts of water.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of Murphy Oil Soap to the water and stir to combine.
3. Insert a funnel into an empty Swiffer Solution bottle and pour in your homemade solution. Or, you can dip the Swiffer mop head directly into the solution and mop your floor as normal.

Homemade Swiffer WetJet Solution #2

This homemade Swiffer solution with lemon juice, dish soap, and vinegar isn’t only effective in cleaning your floors, but it also leaves a fresh scent. The lemon juice acts as a natural deodorizer, while the dish soap helps to remove dirt and grime. Vinegar, on the other hand, helps to disinfect and sanitize your floors. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your cleaning routine.

1. Pour 4 cups of hot water in a bucket or pitcher.
2. Add 1 cup of lemon juice.
3. Measure out 3 cups of vinegar and add it to the bucket.
4. Drizzle in 1/4 cup of liquid dish soap.
5. Mix thoroughly and pour mixture into a recycled Swiffer container.

 

 

DIY Homemade Swiffer WetJet Solution #3

This solution disinfects and sanitizes, while the essential oil (if you decide to use it) adds a pleasant fragrance. The scent of the essential oil can be customized to your liking, making this recipe a great alternative to store-bought cleaning solutions.

1. Mix equal parts hot water and vinegar in a bucket or pitcher (a cup or two of each will work.)
2. Dump in a splash of rubbing alcohol to keep anything gross from growing in the Swiffer refill container.
3. As an option, add a couple drops of essential oil. I like to use lemon or orange scents because citrus also works as degreasers.

Note: It’s important to wring out your mop pad or cloth thoroughly to avoid leaving excess liquid on your floors. Also, avoid using vinegar on waxed or oiled floors, as it may damage the finish.

 

How to Get the Cap Off a Swiffer Bottle

It can be tricky to get the cap off the Swiffer refill bottle. But I discovered an easy way to do it!

1. Boil a few inches of water in a pot.
2. Turn off the heat and dip the end of the Swiffer bottle, lid-side down, into the water. Dunk it until the whole cap and just a little bit of the bottle are submerged.
3. Wait 20 – 30 seconds and then remove the bottle from the water.
4. Put a kitchen towel over the lid so you don’t scald yourself and twist the cap. It should come right off!

Related: 25 Homemade Products That Will Save You Money

 

How to Make Homemade Swiffer Pads

Cut a microfiber cloth or bath towel into rectangles, using the Swiffer mop head as a guide to gauge the correct size. Give it about 1 1/2 inches of overlap on the longer sides so you can tuck the ends of the cloth into the Swiffer mop cloth holder. Or, attach Velcro strips to the top of the mop head to help keep the microfiber towel attached. After using the cloth, just throw it in the washing machine with your other rags.