Cleaning paste, often called Laundry Butter, is one of the most useful recipes in a simple DIY cleaning toolkit.
- It is thick, so it clings where sprays run off.
- It contains soap, so it helps lift grease and grime.
- It has gentle grit and alkalinity, so it gives you the extra scrubbing power needed for tougher jobs around the home.
Think of it as your DIY alternative to a cream cleanser or scrub paste. It is not a disinfectant, and it is not the right cleaner for every surface. It is for the jobs where you need a bit of contact time, a bit of friction and a proper rinse afterwards.
What cleaning paste is best for
Use cleaning paste when a spray is not enough and a soak is not practical.
- Soap scum and bathroom build-up
- Greasy sinks, splashbacks and stovetops
- Cookware, baking trays and burnt-on food
- Grout, tiles and shower floors
- Robust laundry stain pre-treatment
- Outdoor scrubbing jobs such as BBQ parts, pavers and outdoor furniture
It works best on washable, durable surfaces that can handle light abrasion and a good rinse.
Why it works
This recipe works because each ingredient has a clear job.
- Coconut soap flakes act as the surfactant, helping loosen oily grime so it can be rinsed away.
- Washing soda adds alkalinity, which helps cut through grease and heavy build-up.
- Borax supports cleaning performance and helps the paste hold its useful, butter-like texture.
The result is a thick cleaner that stays where you put it, giving the ingredients time to work while you scrub.
Before you use it
Because this is a scrub paste, surface testing matters.
- Avoid aluminium, marble, unsealed stone, painted surfaces, varnished timber and delicate finishes.
- Use care on coated appliances, induction cooktops and glossy surfaces.
- Always test a small hidden area first if you are unsure.
- Use a non-scratch cloth, sponge or brush suited to the surface.
- Rinse well after cleaning so soap or powder residue is not left behind.
More is not always better. Start with a small amount, then add more only if the job needs it.
How to use it
- Apply a small amount of paste to a damp cloth, sponge or non-scratch scourer.
- Rub gently over the surface in a circular motion.
- For heavier grime, leave it to sit for a few minutes.
- Scrub, wipe away and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry the surface if water marks are likely.
Do not put this paste in a spray bottle. It is too thick and can clog the trigger.
Bathroom uses
Baths, basins and ceramic sinks
Use a small amount on a damp cloth or sponge, scrub gently, then rinse well. It is useful when soap scum or body oils need more than a spray.
Tiles and grout
Apply paste directly to problem areas or dilute a spoonful in hot water for a bucket clean. Scrub with a suitable brush, then rinse thoroughly.
Toilets
Use for scrubbing the bowl when there is grime or residue. For mineral scale, rust marks or hard water staining, an acidic cleaner is usually the better choice.
Kitchen uses
Sinks and splashbacks
Cleaning paste is excellent for stainless steel sinks, greasy splashbacks and general kitchen build-up. Rinse well to avoid residue.
Pots, pans and baking trays
Apply with hot water, leave briefly, then scrub. Avoid aluminium cookware, as alkaline cleaners can cause discolouration and pitting.
Stovetops and rangehoods
Use carefully with a soft cloth or non-scratch pad. Always test first on coated or glossy finishes.
Laundry uses
Despite the name Laundry Butter, this paste is not only for laundry. In laundry, it is best used as a targeted stain pre-treatment for robust fabrics.
- Dampen the stained area.
- Apply a small amount of paste.
- Rub gently with your fingers or a soft brush.
- Wash as normal.
Avoid using it on wool, silk, delicate fabrics or anything that may not tolerate alkalinity or rubbing. For coloured fabrics, test first.
Outdoor and heavy-duty uses
For BBQ parts, outdoor furniture, pavers and other washable outdoor surfaces, dilute a spoonful of paste in hot water, scrub, then rinse well.
For very heavy build-up, this is where sodium percarbonate can help.
How to boost it with sodium percarbonate
Do this only at the time of use.
- Scoop the amount of paste you need into a separate bowl.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of sodium percarbonate.
- Add a small amount of hot water slowly and allow it to activate.
- Apply, scrub and rinse well.
Do not store cleaning paste once sodium percarbonate has been added. Make it fresh, use it, then discard any leftover activated mixture.
Storage and texture tips
- Store the paste in a clearly labelled, sealed container.
- Keep it away from children and pets. It can look a lot like icing once blended.
- If it dries out, add a little boiling water and remix.
- Essential oils are optional for scent only. They are not needed for cleaning performance.
Where this fits in the system
This guide explains when and how to use cleaning paste around the home.
If you want the recipe, go to the Multi-Purpose Cleaning Paste Recipe.
If you want to understand the ingredients behind it, start with Washing Soda, Borax and Coconut Soap Flakes.
