Making the change to use natural products may seem like a daunting task for many people. When you begin buying eco-friendly items, you tend to focus more on reading the labels and ingredients. However, when you are familiar with the essential oils used to craft holistic products, it becomes easier to make natural choices. If you have ever looked into trying essential oils, here are a few reasons why and how to take the leap to start eco-friendly cleaning!
But First, What are Essential Oils?
The first question people ask - what are essential oils and what do they do? Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants. Often they are called the "essence" of the plant. Distilling them and prepping them for use captures the scent, properties, and/or flavor. Most of the time, each oil is crafted separately to keep the restorative properties each plant possesses.
Most Common Essential Oils
There are dozens of essential oils to choose from when you take the leap into natural healthcare. However, there are a few to start with that are versatile and will help you jump into eco-friendly methods like essential oils. The most common essential oil is Peppermint Essential Oil. This one is the most versatile with its care - ranging from treating allergy symptoms to sunburn relief.
For relaxation and a calming effect, Lavender Essential Oil is therapeutic with its properties. Additionally, it can pose as a mood booster for some people due to the aromatic scent. Tea Tree Oil is another common essential oil that treats infections and other issues directly on your skin. It can also be used as a wound antiseptic if you scratch or cut yourself.
Now for Cleaning!
All-Purpose Cleaner
One of the first things you'll need is a general, all-purpose cleaner for your home. This is one of the easiest items to make. You'll need:
Mix the vinegar, essential oils, and some water in a clean spray bottle. Then, add the baking soda and fill the entire bottle with water. Shake gently to mix the ingredients. This can be used on a variety of surfaces and won't damage sensitive materials!
Sanitizing Your Kitchen!
Lemon, lime, and other strong fruits can easily sanitize the surfaces in your kitchen. When you regularly maintain the cleanliness of your home, it is easy to mix some lemon oil with water and spraying this on your counters, appliances, and other items in your kitchen. Allow it to sit for several minutes before wiping away with a microfiber cloth. The citrus oils break down bacteria and other harmful contaminants to sanitize the areas. This helps to maintain the freshness of your home between deep cleanings.
Eliminating Bacteria & Tough Grease
One of the great things a citrus-based cleaner can do is act as an antiseptic. That means it will get rid of fungus and bacteria! Oranges are one of the best natural antiseptics that occur naturally. You can use the oil and combine it with other essential oils to also get rid of tough grease! It breaks down grease naturally and leaves behind a fresh smell, rather than the usual chemical smell of other degreasers.
Cleaning Your Carpets
Most people don't realize you can also use these citrus-based oils on your carpet! Mix the oil of your choice, normally lemon or orange with baking soda and let it absorb for several hours. Sprinkle this on your carpet and allow it to sit on it overnight. Vacuum it the next day and this helps to refresh your carpet. The citrus penetrates the fibers in your carpet to sanitize the area and also leaves it smelling fresh!
Where Can I Buy Essential Oils?
Generally, you will want to locate an eco-friendly company that handcrafts their essential oils. This means you receive the purest form of the oils when you are buying through local companies. Large companies tend to find the cheapest way to craft their products, while a smaller one handmakes them regularly. When you invest in essential oils, you want to know all the natural ingredients in the product, not fear there are unknown chemicals inside. Buying local helps support your community, and you know you are purchasing the best.
Our partner company, Timshel Apothecary, handcrafts small batches of simple, aromatherapeutic, and rejuvenating products to use in your home and on your body. Our products are guaranteed to protect you, your family, and your home from harmful toxins providing peace of mind through a holistic and natural alternative. Timshel Apothecary's top priority is the overall well-being of our customers and the environment. We aim to create a harmonious relationship between the two through education and sustainable practices.