In the hustle and bustle of homestead life, keeping our spaces clean, fresh, and free of harsh chemicals is a top priority. At The Denman Homestead, we use natural cleaning solutions that are both effective and safe for our family, pets, and the environment. Here are some of our favorite recipes, along with tips on why they work so well!
Why Go Natural?
Homemade cleaning solutions are free from harmful chemicals found in many store-bought products. They’re cost-effective, customizable, and better for the environment. Plus, they harness the natural cleaning power of simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, and citrus.
1. All-Purpose Cleaner with Orange Oil
Our go-to cleaner at The Denman Homestead is an orange oil and water mix. Orange oil is naturally antibacterial and cuts through grease like a charm, while leaving a light, fresh scent that makes the house smell amazing.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups of water
- 10-15 drops of orange essential oil
Instructions:
1. Mix the water and orange oil in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well before each use to ensure the oil disperses.
3. Spray on countertops, sinks, and appliances for a natural, refreshing clean.
This mixture works wonders in the kitchen, especially on greasy surfaces and grimy stove tops. We find that orange oil adds a fresh and energizing scent that’s ideal for busy homestead spaces.
2. Vinegar and Water All-Purpose Cleaner
Another favorite of ours is a simple, diluted vinegar solution. Vinegar is naturally acidic, so it cuts through grime, deodorizes, and helps prevent mold and mildew. While some find the smell strong, it dissipates quickly, leaving everything feeling fresh.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree are great choices)
Instructions:
1. Mix the vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Add a few drops of essential oil if desired.
3. Shake before use, and spray onto hard surfaces like countertops, bathroom sinks, and even glass.
The Denman Homestead tip: Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as the acidity can damage them over time. Stick to sealed countertops and glass, where vinegar really shines!
3. Baking Soda Scrub for Stubborn Stains
Baking soda is our go-to abrasive cleaner for tackling tough stains and baked-on messes in the kitchen. It’s great for sinks, pots and pans, and tile grout.
What You’ll Need:
- ½ cup of baking soda
- Enough water to make a paste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the baking soda and water to form a paste.
2. Apply the paste to the surface you want to clean, and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Scrub gently with a sponge or cloth, and rinse.
Baking soda is particularly good at absorbing odors, so we also keep an open container in the fridge to help keep it smelling fresh!
4. Glass Cleaner with Vinegar and Alcohol
For streak-free windows and mirrors, this DIY glass cleaner is unbeatable.
What You’ll Need:
- ¼ cup of white vinegar
- ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: A few drops of lemon essential oil
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
2. Spray on glass surfaces, and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
This mix is especially useful for those tricky window streaks that never seem to go away!
5. Lemon and Olive Oil Wood Polish
Wood surfaces benefit from a little extra care, and this homemade polish gives them a beautiful shine.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of olive oil
- ½ cup of lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine the olive oil and lemon juice in a spray bottle or bowl.
2. Dab a cloth in the mixture and apply to wood surfaces, wiping in the direction of the grain.
3. Buff with a clean cloth to bring out the natural shine.
This polish not only leaves wood looking great but also nourishes and protects the finish.
Why We Love Natural Cleaning Solutions
Homemade cleaners allow us to clean thoroughly without any mystery ingredients. At The Denman Homestead, these recipes keep our home feeling fresh, and knowing exactly what goes into our cleaning products adds peace of mind.
If you’re new to making your own cleaners, give these recipes a try! Once you experience the effectiveness of these natural solutions, you might just replace those store-bought cleaners for good.
Happy homesteading and happy cleaning from all of us at The Denman Homestead!
Comments