Move over, bleach and ammonia – a new cleaning superhero is in town! May I introduce essential oils, nature’s affordable, eco-friendly, and just as effective (if not more) alternative to store bought cleaners. Perfect for spring cleaning, these heavenly smelling, germ-fighting powerhouses will leave your house spic and span, without any chemical residue.
This year, we’ve been featuring a free dishcloth pattern every week, so I thought it would be fun to explore natural cleaners to use with your dishcloths. Not only are conventional cleaners expensive, they can also be hazardous to your health and the environment. Using essential oils to create your own cleaning spray is safe for your family’s health and phenomenal at eradicating salmonella, e.coli, MRSA, pneumonia and a slew of other insidious little nasties (source). This spray is perfect for cleaning hard surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom, etc.
Let’s get started!
All-Purpose Disinfecting Spray & Window Cleaner:
What You Need:
16 oz. Spray Bottle (Make sure you use glass, as essential oils will cause plastic to leach. Purchase one here.)
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 3/4 cups water
30 drops essential oil (use any of the suggestions below)
Directions:
Add all ingredients to spray bottle. Shake thoroughly.
Some stellar oil combinations:
(I use the doTERRA brand)
15 drops each of Lavender and Lemon
10 drops each of Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Orange
30 drops doTERRA’s On Guard blend (or you can make your own by combining orange, clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary)
15 drops each of Grapefruit and doTERRA’s On Guard blend
Other essential oil ideas:
- For a body mist, add 20 drops of an essential oil you like to 40z water spray bottle
- To prevent wool moths, add a few drops of lavender to the softener compartment of your washing machine or the final rinse of a hand wash. This will impregnate the fiber of your clothing with the scent of lavender, which the moths loathe. This is the single best way to prevent moths taking up residence in your wardrobe.
- Sprinkle your Fair Isle Lavender Sachets with a few drops of lavender to keep your knits fresh and moth-free
- Add a few drops of peppermint on a headband or scarf for a fresh, minty smell that will keep you awake and invigorated
- For an even extra burst of essential oils in your clothing, place a wash cloth with a few drops of essential oil into your dryer. It comes out smelling beautiful!
- Add a few drops of Lemon essential oil to your wash cycle to help remove grease and oil from fabrics.
