Since sharing this round-up back in 2009 and this update from 2012, we’ve had lots of requests for a refreshed list of the household cleaners and personal care items we use now. People also frequently ask about my skin routine. We aim to keep soaps, cleaners and cosmetics simple and streamlined — less clutter saves money, time and space. If you’re trying to pare down or simplify, this post should give you practical ideas. And yes, my face routine is included. Let’s dive in.
Household Cleaners
These are the cleaners we use around the whole house. A lemon dish soap sits by the sink for dishes and an accompanying grapefruit hand soap lives by the bathroom sinks. Our dishwasher detergent is simple and effective.
For nearly every surface we use a concentrated multi-surface cleaner so we don’t need separate products for toilets, tiles and wood floors. We water the concentrate down (roughly 50%) and use a damp microfiber cloth for counters, tabletops, windowsills and floors. Our favorite scent is lemon verbena — fresh and not overpowering.
A solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle is our go-to for windows, mirrors and stainless steel (buff with the grain). We mix roughly three parts water to one part vinegar. It’s inexpensive, effective and keeps the cabinet under the sink from filling up with half a dozen specialty cleaners.
Magic Erasers are great for scuffed banisters and marker marks; cut them in half to extend their life. For baked-on pots and pans we like resilient sponges designed to handle heavy grease without destroying cookware.
Laundry Stuff
Our everyday laundry detergent is a free-and-clear concentrated formula we use for every load. Because it’s concentrated it doesn’t take up much shelf space. We haven’t used fabric softener or spray starch for years and don’t miss them.
For stubborn stains we use an oxygen-based soak or a pretreat spray. A portable stain pen is handy to keep in the kitchen drawer, the car, or a purse for quick touch-ups on the go.
Freshening The Air
Some household members are sensitive to strong fragrances, so we avoid plug-in fresheners and heavily perfumed sprays. We prefer soy candles scented with essential oils for a subtle, non-irritating fragrance. Candles are also handy outside to deter mosquitoes.
Plants help purify the air and add greenery to each room. For musty smells we use a light, plant-based spray that freshens upholstery and rugs. We also use small charcoal bags to naturally absorb moisture and odors — they’re reusable and effective when recharged in sunlight once a month. We place charcoal bags in rooms, closets and shoe bins to keep things fresh.
Shower Stuff
We keep shower products minimal. We each use a shampoo and conditioner we both tolerate so the shower doesn’t accumulate multiple bottles. A curl cream applied to wet hair helps control frizz and define waves. For body wash we use a large pump bottle that lasts months, and conditioner doubles as shave gel.
For facial exfoliation in the shower I use a gentle scrub once or twice a week to slough off dead skin. Occasionally I use pure coconut oil as a deep hair mask — it softens and detangles but must be rinsed out thoroughly to avoid grease.
So We Don’t Smell
We’re not big on perfumes, but we use natural deodorants that actually work — finding one you like can depend on body chemistry, so sampling a few is often necessary. For oral care we use electric toothbrushes and a natural whitening toothpaste. Floss is part of the routine; we don’t use mouthwash daily.
The Kids’ Stuff
Kiddie products are kept very simple. Their bathroom counter has a children’s toothpaste and a foaming hand soap. In the tub we keep a combined shampoo and body wash and a matching conditioner to limit bottles.
We also use a peppermint hair mist while brushing before school to deter lice. It’s part of our out-the-door routine and has helped keep lice at bay. We learned the hard way that consistent use matters.
My Makeup
My entire makeup collection fits in a small pouch. My routine is quick: bronzer with a big brush, a light concealer when needed, a flattering powder under the cheekbones, a highlighter stick on the high points, neutral brown eyeshadow for lids and brows, eyelash curler, eyeliner and mascara. I finish with a brow grooming product that creates a natural yet defined look. Lip balm is always Burt’s Bees. A pair of tweezers and nail clippers live in the pouch for quick touch-ups.
Nail Polish
I keep a small basket of nail polishes for at-home manicures and pedicures. My favorites are eco-friendly brands with durable finishes and easy-to-use brushes. A topcoat helps nails last longer between applications.
The colors I use most include a few shades from both Butter London and Zoya, along with a reliable topcoat for shine and durability.
Face Care — Simple Anti-Aging Routine
I keep face care intentionally minimal and use a few natural staples that work for my sensitive skin. My evening routine is a light application of organic coconut oil. It doubles as a makeup remover and night moisturizer — a small dab is all you need. Apply it, wipe off makeup with a warm damp cloth if necessary, and reapply a tiny amount if skin feels dry.
In the morning I cleanse/toner with a diluted apple cider vinegar solution (about 50% water, 50% ACV) applied lightly with a cotton ball. Let it dry and then mist a gentle witch hazel facial spray for hydration and clarity. The ACV helps reduce breakouts and blackheads when used sparingly; the facial mist soothes and tones afterward.
Occasionally I use a jade roller for a cooling, depuffing massage and microneedle once a week for skin texture and firmness, following hygiene instructions carefully. After microneedling I keep post-care simple — usually a gentle oil or moisturizer. I also use a clay-based face mask weekly for exfoliation and clarity.
This pared-down, natural approach keeps my skin hydrated, balanced and less irritated than more complex regimens.
More House Cleaning Advice
If you want additional cleaning tips, consider guides on cleaning stainless steel sinks, making a two-ingredient window cleaner, evaluating robot vacuums, dealing with fruit flies, pressure-washing basics, and choosing a home air purifier. These topics offer practical, budget-friendly ways to maintain a clean, comfortable home.
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