Gone are the days of harsh chemicals that put your and your loved ones’ well-being at risk. When using cleaning products containing essential oils, you won’t only be doing better for overall health, allergens, and indoor air quality, but also for the cleanliness of your home. Plus, there’s a variety to choose from, giving you the power to create the perfumed smell you like most. Ready to learn more about the cleaning power and effectiveness of essential oils?
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of these natural cleaning agents and look at ways that you can create your own products with the oils you choose. Get ready to enjoy the beauty of a naturally scented home.
The Benefits of Essential Oil Cleaning
If you’re new to the idea of using essential oils in your cleaning routine, the best place to start is the benefits. Let’s look at these below.
1. Natural Cleaning Agents
Essential oils, derived from plants, are natural cleaning solutions that possess powerful natural cleaning properties. They contain antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial compounds that can help eliminate germs, bacteria, and unpleasant odours without the use of unnatural chemicals that could harm the environment and affect your health.
2. Aromatherapy Benefits
In addition to their cleaning properties, essential oils offer aromatherapy benefits that can enhance your mood, reduce stress, and create a calming atmosphere in your home. Depending on the oil you use, the natural scents can uplift, invigorate, or promote relaxation.
3. Non-Toxic and Environmentally Friendly
Using essential oils for cleaning means avoiding the harmful chemicals found in many conventional cleaning products. They are non-toxic, eco-friendly alternatives that are safe for you, your family, and the environment.
Essential Oils You Can Use for Cleaning
Every essential oil possesses a unique set of properties and ‘superpowers,’ if you will. If you know which oils to use and how to use them, you’ll never have to turn to commercial cleaning products again. Listed below are the oils to add to your green cleaning arsenal, and how you can use them to achieve that spotless look you dream of.
1. Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil is a versatile and refreshing oil that can cut through grease, remove stains, and deodorise surfaces. It is particularly effective for cleaning kitchen countertops, cutting boards, and stainless steel appliances.
2. Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential oil is known for its powerful antimicrobial properties. It can be used to disinfect surfaces, clean bathroom fixtures, and freshen up carpets and upholstery.
3. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil not only has a soothing aroma but also possesses antimicrobial properties. It is excellent for cleaning and freshening linens, mattresses, and upholstery. Lavender can also be used to create a relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom.
4. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil has a refreshing scent and is effective at repelling insects. Use it to naturally deter ants, spiders, and other pests from entering your home. Peppermint oil can also be added to your homemade all-purpose cleaner for a minty fresh scent.
5. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is an excellent choice for cleaning and disinfecting bathrooms. Its invigorating aroma can help eliminate odours and leave your bathroom smelling fresh. Add a few drops to your toilet bowl cleaner, or create a homemade shower spray with eucalyptus oil.
How to Use Essential Oils for Cleaning
Now that you’re clued up on the various oils available to you, let’s look at the other ingredients you can combine them with to create different cleaning products. Follow the cleaning tips and instructions below.
1. All-Purpose Cleaner
Create a simple and effective all-purpose cleaner by following the simple instructions below:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil (such as lemon, tea tree, lavender, or a combination)
Instructions:
- In a clean spray bottle, combine the water and white vinegar. The vinegar helps to disinfect surfaces and remove stains.
- Add 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil or a combination of oils. Adjust the number of drops based on your preference for scent strength.
- Secure the spray bottle cap tightly and give it a gentle shake to mix the ingredients.
Usage:
- Shake the bottle before each use to ensure the essential oils are evenly distributed.
- Spray the all-purpose cleaner onto the desired surface.
- Wipe the surface with a clean cloth or sponge.
- For tougher stains or grime, let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before wiping.
2. Linen Freshener
Looking to add a fresh, natural scent to your linen? Follow the steps below.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel or vodka (acts as a dispersing agent)
- 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil (such as lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus)
Instructions:
- In a small spray bottle, combine the distilled water and witch hazel or vodka. The witch hazel or vodka helps the essential oils disperse evenly in the mixture.
- Add 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil or a combination of oils. Adjust the number of drops based on your preference for scent strength. Lavender and chamomile offer relaxing scents, while eucalyptus provides a refreshing aroma.
- Secure the spray bottle cap tightly and give it a gentle shake to mix the ingredients.
Usage:
- Shake the bottle before each use to ensure the essential oils are evenly distributed.
- Hold the spray bottle a few inches away from your linens.
- Lightly mist the linens, keeping a moderate distance to avoid saturating them.
- Allow the linens to air dry, or you can gently pat them with a clean cloth.
3. DIY Air Freshener
Similar to the linen freshener above, you can also create a refreshing and aromatic air freshener with the essential oil of your choice. Follow the instructions below to get started.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel or vodka (acts as a dispersing agent)
- 15-20 drops of your chosen essential oil or a combination of oils
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, combine the water and witch hazel or vodka. The witch hazel or vodka helps the essential oils mix well with the water and disperse evenly.
- Add 15-20 drops of your preferred essential oil or a combination of oils. You can choose scents like lavender, citrus, peppermint, or eucalyptus, depending on your preference.
- Secure the spray bottle cap tightly and give it a gentle shake to mix the ingredients.
Usage:
- Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the essential oils are evenly distributed.
- Hold the spray bottle upright and spray into the air, aiming for open spaces in your home.
- You can also spray the air freshener onto curtains, furniture, or other fabrics in your home to impart a pleasant scent.
- Avoid spraying directly onto delicate surfaces or electronics.
Conclusion
Essential oil cleaning offers a natural and effective way to clean your home while adding beautiful scents to your living space. With their antimicrobial properties and aromatherapy benefits, you can wipe away all of your cleaning worries with a few quick sprays of nature’s cleaning agents.
If you have the products in hand but no time to get to the cleaning part, get a SweepStar in to work their magic. With just a few simple clicks, you can get a trusted and vetted cleaning professional into your home to transform it into a spotless sanctuary. Plus, with every SweepSouth cleaning service, there are discounts and rewards to look forward to. Book today and discover just how convenient it can be.
