Does the odor of chemical household cleansers singe your nose hairs? Do the harsh chemicals ruin your skin and nails? Do you just want to live a cleaner lifestyle with fewer chemicals? If you like the idea of kinder, gentler cleaners, then consider mixing up your own cleansers using natural products, like herbs and lemons.
Herbs and other foods can be a smart part of healthy living, influencing everything from how well our bodies work (11 Incredibly Powerful Herbs) to, yes, how we smell (Reduce Body Odor with the Foods You Eat). So it’s no surprise that these versatile ingredients can be used to create products that keep the house clean, too.
Check out these easy homemade concoctions. **As with any cleaner, always test it first on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it doesn’t harm the surface. Remember, never use vinegar-based cleaning products on marble—it will damage the surface. **
Herbal Glass Cleaner #1
Mix well and use with spray bottle:
2 cups of lemongrass tea (strained)
½ cup of vinegar
(If the windows are very dirty, add 1 tbsp Cream of Tartar)
Herbal Glass Cleaner #2
Mix well and use with spray bottle:
Juice from 1 lemon
2 cups club soda
½ tsp. peppermint oil
1 tsp. corn starch
All Purpose Surface Cleaner
Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of lemon juice to add fragrance.
Herbal Scouring Powder (for sinks and tubs)
½ cup baking soda
1 tbsp ground herbs (try basil, mint, sage, or rosemary)
Several drops essential oil (a fragrance that can be found in health food stores or online)
Mix ingredients well, pulverizing herbs into very fine pieces. To use, sprinkle a small amount into the tub or sink, and scrub with a rag or sponge. Rinse well to completely remove residue. Store in a covered container.
Herbal Air Freshener
Odor of wrestling gear? Eau de cat? If not-so-pleasant smells have infiltrated your space, try one of these super-simple, all-natural herb fresheners:
- Grind up a lemon slice in the garbage disposal.
- Dry your own herbs (like lavender or rosemary) and set them out in bowls.
- Simmer a blend of water and cinnamon on the stove.
After you’ve worked up an appetite cleaning and freshening, try one of these healthy recipes that use good-for-you herbs:
Skinny Slow Cooker Shredded Rosemary and Onion Pork
Stay Healthy Slow Cooker Brown Rice and Chicken with Herbs
