Make Your Own
Cleaning Supplies
One of the potential pitfalls of spring-cleaning is the harsh fumes left behind by some cleaning products. Before beginning your annual spring-cleaning adventure, take some time to make your own! The fresh scents are perfect for spring, and the natural ingredients are great for your health and your bottom line!
What is an essential oil? Essential oils are a common ingredient in the homemade cleaning products below. They're naturally occurring chemicals found in various parts of plants; they protect plants and make them aromatic, and they're used in other items like perfumes, cosmetics, and flavorings.
All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner
- Citrus peels (mostly lemon)
- 1–2 cups white vinegar
- 15–20 drops of essential oils
Fill a jar of your choice with the citrus peels, and then top off with white vinegar. Seal tightly with a lid, and allow it to sit for a week. Strain the solution into a spray bottle, add your favorite essential oils, and use as a multipurpose spray.
Floor and Glass Cleaner
- 1 cup isopropyl alcohol
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 15–20 drops of essential oils
Combine alcohol, vinegar, and water in a spray bottle with the essential oils of your choice. To use on windows and mirrors, spray it directly onto paper towels, or pour it into a bucket to mop the floor.
Furniture Polish
- ¾ cup olive oil
- Juice of ¼ lemon
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 3-4 drops lemon essential oil
Combine all ingredients in the jar of your choice. To use, first choose a small area to test, then wet a cloth and squeeze out the extra water. Dip the cloth into the polish, and wipe onto furniture. Buff with a dry cloth to finish.
Disinfecting Wipes
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup rubbing alcohol
- 2 tablespoons dish soap
- 2 tablespoons ammonia
- ½ roll of paper towels
Mix all of the ingredients in a bowl or jar. Then cut a paper towel roll in half, pour the liquid over the roll, and store in an airtight container. Use as you would disposable disinfecting wipes to clean countertops, spills, and other messes.
Fabric Sanitizer/Air Refresher
- 1½ cups warm water
- ½ cup witch hazel
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 10-30 drops of antibacterial essential oils (e.g., lemongrass, cinnamon bark, lemon, lavender)
Combine ingredients in a in a spray bottle, and mix well. Spray onto fabrics for a quick refresh.
You'll be amazed at just how easy and cost-effective it is to make these natural cleaning supplies. When you're done, be sure to download and print your own labels for your new cleaners!
Download Download the labels you see here to make finding your homemade cleaning products super easy!
For more DIY tips, visit americanlifestylemag.com/spring.
Posted in How-To, Issue 82 Vol 2 on Feb 15, 2017