Keep Your Home Fresh Using Essential Oils
A clean home is more than just a place to relax - it’s a sanctuary away from the chaos of everyday life. However, the products we use to get that clean feeling could be doing more harm than good. Many store bought cleaning products contain chemicals that can pose health risks to your family and even your pets. Let’s take a look at using essential oils in the home for a healthier, fresher home.
All-Purpose Cleaner
This recipe works well for general cleaning.
Ingredients
- Water
- Witch hazel or vinegar
- Essential oils
Instructions
Mix 1 cup distilled water, 1 cup witch hazel or vinegar, 10 drops each of tea tree and lemon essential oils. Other essential oils that can be used are: lavender, orange, peppermint, eucalyptus – or your favorite essential oils. For 16 ounces of liquid you can add up to 90 + drops essential oils.
Avoid using vinegar on natural stone (like granite or marble), as its acidity can cause etching or dull the surface. Witch hazel is a safer option for sensitive surfaces.
Freshen Up Laundry Using Essential Oils
Adding oils like tea tree or lavender to the wash can be a good idea - however:
- Direct Use: Essential oils should never be applied directly to clothes as they can cause stains. Always mix them with unscented detergent or dilute them first.
- Dryer Sheet Alternative: Using essential oils on dryer balls is effective, but over-saturating them with oil can be a fire hazard. Stick to a few drops per ball and allow them to dry before use.
Using Essential Oils to Remove Carpet Odors
This is a classic DIY carpet deodorizer. Baking soda absorbs odors effectively, and the essential oils can enhance the mix.
- Recipe: 1 cup baking soda, 10 drops each of lavender and lemon essential oils or your favorite oils.
Ensure the oils used are safe for pets if they frequent the carpet. Chamomile essential oil and rosemary essential oil can be safer options.
Natural Pest Control
Essential oils like peppermint, lemon, tea tree, and clove effectively repel spiders and ants.
- Dilution: Ensure proper dilution (10 to 15 drops per cup of water) to avoid overly strong scents that might irritate sensitive individuals.
These oils won’t harm most surfaces but should be tested before widespread use.
Using Essential Oils to Deodorize Your Home Naturally
This is an effective and safe recipe for a natural air freshener room spray.
Homemade Room Spray Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cups of water
- 1/2 cup witch hazel
- 20 to 25 drops of essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint)
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda (helps neutralize odors)
Instructions
1 cup distilled water, 1/2 cup witch hazel, 10 drops each of lavender and eucalyptus oils, 5 drops peppermint oil.
How to Use the Room Spray
- Stand in the center of a room and spray upward 2 to 3 times, adjusting the angle with each spritz to distribute the scent.
- Lightly spray soft surfaces like curtains, pillows, or couch cushions for a lingering aroma. (Avoid spraying fabrics prone to staining.)
- Safety Tip: Do not spray on wood or tile floors, as the oils can make them slippery.
- Shake before each use.
Key Points About Using Baking Soda in a Room Spray
Odor Neutralization
Baking soda effectively absorbs and neutralizes acidic odors, making it a great addition to a room spray, especially in areas prone to strong smells.
Mixing Method
Dissolve a small amount of baking soda in water before adding your essential oils to ensure it mixes well.
Essential Oil Synergy
The baking soda can help the essential oils disperse evenly in the spray, enhancing the fragrance.
Neutralizing Trash and Shoe Odors
- Method: Using cotton balls with lavender or peppermint essential oil for odor control is simple and effective.
Essential Oil Safety Tips
Essential oils are highly concentrated and can irritate skin or damage surfaces if used undiluted.
Conclusion
These recipes are practical and effective. The result will be a home that is not only clean and fresh but also healthier for everyone.
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