Multi-Purpose Cleaning Paste

Baths, basins and ceramic sinks: use a small amount on a damp cloth or sponge, scrub gently, then rinse well. It's useful when soap scum or body oils need more than a spray.

Tiles and grout: apply 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's grime or residue. For mineral scale, rust marks or hard water staining, an acidic cleaner is usually the better choice.

Sinks and splashbacks: 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.

Despite the name laundry butter, this paste isn't only for laundry. Here, it's best used as a targeted stain pre-treatment for robust fabrics.

1. Dampen the stained area.
2. Apply a small amount of paste.
3. Rub gently with your fingers or a soft brush.
4. 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.

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, that's where sodium percarbonate can help, see below.

Avoid use on:

• Aluminium
• Painted or varnished surfaces
• Marble, unsealed stone and delicate finishes

Use care on coated appliances, induction cooktops and glossy surfaces and always test a small hidden area first if unsure.

Store in a clearly labelled, sealed container once cool. Keep away from children and pets.

The paste stores well when kept sealed and dry between uses. If it changes smell, grows visible mould, separates unusually, or looks contaminated, discard it. If it dries out, add a little boiling water and remix.

Essential oils are optional and only needed if you want scent. They're not needed for cleaning performance. Avoid adding them if you're using the paste for oven cleaning or areas where strong scent isn't suitable.

Coconut soap flakes
The main surfactant. Dissolves in the hot water and, as it cools, sets the mixture into a thick, spreadable paste while trapping and lifting oils and dirt.

Washing soda (sodium carbonate)
Main alkalinity agent. Breaks down grease and boosts the cleaning power of the soap.

Borax
Boosts cleaning performance and deodorises, adding extra scrubbing power for tougher build-up.