Cleaning your home Aromatically

I never thought I would say this, but since I began studying and using essential oils, I started to notice that I look forward to cleaning! At first, I thought why not use essential oils to clean with as they contain antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties which makes them ideal for cleaning. As I began using the essential oils for cleaning, I realized how pleasant the rooms smelled, quite different from the strong chemicals which always made me feel sick.

When using essential oils to clean you can always customize the aroma based on your mood, season, etc., and you will not only end up with clean house and beautiful aroma but also benefit from the aromatherapy at the same time. I also realized that the more I use essential oils the more I could no longer tolerate strong chemicals used in any products. Walking down the isle with cleaning products at the grocery store became a very unpleasant experience. There is a product for everything with a variety of synthetic scents harmful to the environment. The simple, natural method involving essential oils, distilled vinegar, and baking soda to clean is more affordable than buying synthetic cleaning products and the aroma is wonderful! It is better for the home and external environment and produces less waste.

Allergies and Asthma

It was after World War 2 that the production of petrochemicals and synthetics increased. By 1980 production numbers skyrocketed to over four million chemicals compounds per year. As the production of chemicals was accelerating an increase in health problems was observed. Some of the conditions are: asthma, allergies, headaches, insomnia, reproductive issues, mild depression. It is impossible to avoid every harmful exposure in the world we live in today but it is important to make your home a safe place and take control on what you can.

Did you know?

Fragrance “oils” can be a mixture of several hundred different highly toxic ingredients that can be lung and skin irritants! They may also have negative effect on the nervous system.

Safe Ingredients for Home Cleaning

• Castile Soap – one of the versatile soap bases that can be used in cleaning, from hand soaps to multi-purposes cleaners. Purchase an unscented clean soap base and play with different essential oils and aromas!

• Borax – safe alternative to bleach in the wash to whiten the clothes.

• Distilled water – water which does not contain any contaminates that may be in tap water. It can be mixed with vinegar for a cleaning spray and excellent for room sprays and water diffusers.

• Baking Soda – great for scrubbing, will not damage most surfaces, especially pots and pans.
• White distilled vinegar – great disinfectant, removes stains and makes a good base for an all-purpose cleaner.

All Purpose Spray Cleaner Recipe

3 oz distilled water

3 oz white distilled vinegar

0.5 oz Castile Soap or Honest & Pure Germ Free Household Cleaner concentrate (It comes with essential oils so you do not need to add any)

60 drops Honest & Pure Lemon essential oil

15 drops Honest & Pure Thyme essential oil

OR

75 drops Honest & Pure Germ-Free synergy blend

Add essential oils first, then water, vinegar, and soap base at the end. Mix well and put in a spray bottle.

Carpet Refreshner

1 cup baking soda

1 cup corn starch

15 drops Honest & Pure Bergamot essential oil

10 drops Honest & Pure Lavender essential oil

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Add and mix in essential oils. Sprinkle onto the carpet. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then vacuum as usual.

Most commonly used essential oils for cleaning

Antibacterial: Bay Laurel, Cinnamon, Clove,  Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemongrass, Palmarosa, Tea Tree, Thyme.

Antimicrobial: Bay Laurel, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Wild Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Thyme.

Antiviral: Bergamot, Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Tea Tree, Thyme.

Antifungal: Juniper, Lavender, Lemongrass, Patchouli, Tea Tree, Thyme.

According to research studies essential oils do, in fact, contain germ killing properties. Our bodies process and filter everything that touches our skin and everything we inhale into our respiratory system. Over time some chemicals are not completely processed and accumulation builds up which leads to health issues. By using natural ingredients and essential oils you choose healthier lifestyle.

Written by Lena Isayev, B.A., C.A.