HOME-MADE CLEANING PRODUCT IDEAS

KITCHEN

1. Natural All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Add 10-15 drops of essential oil (like lemon, lavender, or tea tree) for a pleasant scent and additional antibacterial properties. This works great on countertops, stovetops, and appliances.

2. Baking Soda Scrub: Use baking soda and water to create a paste for scrubbing sinks, stovetops, and greasy pots and pans. Add a few drops of lemon or tea tree essential oil for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.

3. Lemon Freshener: Use lemon peels to freshen up your garbage disposal. Run a few peels through with cold water to eliminate odors, or add a few drops of lemon essential oil for a more intense fresh scent.

BATHROOM

1. Vinegar and Baking Soda for the Toilet: Pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Add 10 drops of tea tree essential oil for its antibacterial properties. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and flush.

2. Showerhead Descaler: Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, add 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil, secure it around the showerhead, and let it sit overnight. In the morning, rinse it off to remove limescale buildup.

3. Mirror Cleaner: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Add 10 drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil. Spray on mirrors and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.

LIVING AREAS

1. Dusting: Use a microfiber cloth or a damp cloth with a few drops of lemon or eucalyptus essential oil to dust surfaces. Avoid using disposable dusting wipes to reduce waste.

2. Furniture Polish: Mix 1 cup of olive oil with 1/4 cup of lemon juice and add 10-15 drops of lemon or lavender essential oil. Apply a small amount to a cloth and rub onto wooden furniture to clean and shine.

3. Carpet Deodorizer: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil (like lavender, lemongrass or eucalyptus). Let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming to help neutralize odors and leave a fresh scent.

LAUNDRY

1. Eco-Friendly Detergent: Use plant-based laundry detergents without phosphates, chlorine, or artificial fragrances. Add a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil for a natural fragrance and added antibacterial benefits.

2. Cold Water Wash: Wash clothes in cold water to save energy and prevent color fading. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the rinse cycle for a fresh scent.

3. Dryer Balls: Use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets. Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus) to the dryer balls to reduce drying time and static while leaving your laundry smelling great.

GENERAL TIPS

1. Reuse and Repurpose: Repurpose old t-shirts as cleaning rags. Add a few drops of essential oil to the rags for a fresh scent and additional cleaning properties.

2. Indoor Plants: Place indoor plants around your home to improve air quality and add a touch of nature. Occasionally mist the leaves with water and a few drops of essential oil to keep them looking and smelling fresh.

3. Reduce Plastic: Opt for glass, stainless steel, or bamboo cleaning tools and storage containers instead of plastic ones. Add a few drops of essential oil to your cleaning solutions for added benefits.

4. Composting: Compost food scraps to reduce landfill waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Add citrus peels or a few drops of citrus essential oil to your compost bin to help control odors.

Incorporating essential oils into your cleaning routine not only enhances the effectiveness of your cleaning but also leaves your home smelling fresh and inviting while promoting a healthier environment.