In recent times we are becoming more aware of the effect that the chemicals in cleaning products have on our health along with the environment. Lots of traditional cleaning products contain dangerous chemicals that lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation and also other health hazards. These chemicals may also pollute waterways, harm wildlife and cause air pollution. More and more people are reaching for natural alternatives to clean and freshen their house.
The best natural solutions are essential oils. These are essentially just potent plant extracts that give a nice smell as well as various cleaning and disinfecting abilities. From antifungal and antibacterial effects to deodorizing and degreasing properties, essential oils can be used to make a fresh & chemical free home.
Learn about the best essential oils for cleaning & freshening your home in this guide. How they work, how to use them, & specific recipes for making your own natural cleaners. Whether to replace old cleaning products or simply add a touch of natural to your routine, these essential oils will give you an (almost) squeaky clean, healthy and welcoming home. Let’s dive in!
1. Essential Oils for Cleaning
For cleaning and freshening your home, there are essential oils. The natural antimicrobial activity is probably the most important added value aspect. Numerous essential oils for instance tea tree oil and lavender oil kill bacteria, viruses and fungi and so are viable alternatives to chemical disinfectants.
The other benefit is that they counteract odors. Some essential oils such as lemon, peppermint and eucalytus have pleasant scents that mask and remove unpleasant odors. Unlike with synthetic air fresheners (many of which contain toxic chemicals), using essential oils ensures your home smells fresh and that no one’s breathing in potentially dangerous fumes.
Essential oils are also versatile. They are used for cleaning everything from surfaces to laundry. You can combine different oils to make custom cleaning solutions.
And third, essential oils are green. They are of plant origin and biodegradable (they break down without causing environmental damage). Using essential oils for cleaning helps reduce chemical products and creates a more sustainable future.
2. The Top Essential Oils for Cleaning & Freshening
Some of the essential oils are best for cleansing and refreshing your house. What oils to buy:
Tea tree oil has a broad antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses and fungi. It works best on disinfecting surfaces and treating mold and mildew.
Lemon oil may be used as a degreaser and deodorizer. Its citrusy scent cleans kitchen surfaces, removes sticky residues and refreshes air.
Lavender oil-its properties are relaxing and soothing but it can also have antibacterial and antifungal action. Use it to freshen linens, sweep floors or just relax.
Peppermint oil is strongly aromatic and antimicrobial. Good for: Repelling pests; for spicing up a tired-looking carpet; for cleaning bathrooms.
The oil of eucalyptus is a disinfectant/deodorizer. Its camphoraceous scent is ideal for cleaning windows, air conditioning and repelling insects.
Add these essential oils to your cleaning routine and it’ll be one chemical-free house party.
3. How to Clean with Essential Oils
Use essential oils for cleaning. How you can Get Started With them Here are some ideas on how to integrate them in to your routine:
First, dilute essential oils in water or carrier oil (like coconut oil or olive oil). This distributes the oils evenly and avoids them from scratching surfaces. A little of the essential oil goes a long way when mixed with water or vinegar for most cleaning applications.
Spray essential oil solutions onto surfaces in a bottle. This enables even coverage and facilitates cleaning of large areas. Always shake the bottle well before mixing the oils and water.
Pour a few drops of essential oil into baking soda or castile soap for scrubbing tasks. This makes a soft scrub that removes tough stains and grime.
A few drops in a diffuser or bowl of hot water will refresh the air. This will release the oils’ nice smells as well as make them receptive.
With these considerations you can use essential oils for cleaning or freshening your home.
4. Essential Oil Cleaning Recipes
Make your own essential oil cleaners. Try these recipes:
For all-purpose cleaner: blend one cup water, one cup white vinegar and 10 to 15 drops lemon or tea tree oil together in a squirt bottle. Shake well before use and spray on areas such as counter tops; sinks; appliances; and in areas where mice have gathered.
For a floor cleaner mix a gallon of warm water with 1 cup white vinegar and 10 to 15 drops lavender or eugenia oil. For hard floors, use a mop but avoid getting the floor overly wet.
For a bathroom cleaner combine 1 cup of baking soda, 1 cup water and 10-15 drops of tea tree or peppermint oil. For sinks, tubs, and tiles: Slather on the paste; scrub with a brush; rinse with water.
To make a carpet freshener: Combine 1 cup of baking soda and 10-15 drops of either lavender or lemon oil. Sprinkle the mix over the carpet; leave it for 15 minutes; vacuum.
Use these recipes to make potent, natural cleaning solutions for any room of your home.
5. Safety Tips When Using Essential Oils
Although essential oils are natural, they are very concentrated and require caution when using. Safety tips:
Use essential oils in a dropper – size amount before use. Undiluted oils can irritate or damage surfaces/skin.
Test essential oil solutions in a small, unobtrusive area first before using on a larger surface. This helps them not to cause discoloration or alteration.
Children and pets should not be near essential oils. Some oils are poisonous when ingested or irritating when applied to skin.
Use essential oils in well ventilated areas. Their strong scents could be cloying indoors.
Following these safety tips will allow you to use essential oils without putting yourself, your family or your home at risk of harm.
6. Keeping Your Home Fresh and Chemical Free
Once you bring essential oils into your cleaning you can easily keep your home fresh and chemical free! Tips for a clean, welcoming house:
Clean regularly so dirt and grime will not accumulate. A little effort daily, and you’ll save time & energy later.
Freshen the air and banish odors with essential oils. Use a couple of drops in a diffuser, pot of warm water or homemade air freshener.
Rotate your essential oils for a clean smelling home. There are different oils for different scents and benefits – try them all!
Follow these tips for a clean, inviting home without chemicals.
Conclusion
Essential oils are a potent & useful product for your fresh & chemical free home. With their antimicrobial properties and nice smells these natural extracts do double duty for cleaning and freshening your home.
Using essential oils for cleaning means you use lesser chemical products, safeguard your health and help the environment. For disinfecting surfaces, making the air smell better, or removing stains, essential oils afford a natural and practical solution.
So next time you grab a cleaning product, reach for essential oils instead. Using the tips and recipes contained in this guide to make your house cleaner, healthier and more welcoming.
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