All cleaners are not created equal, and if you're the type who has zero qualms with chemicals and harsh fragrances this is not your article. However, if you are interested in a very easy DIY cleaner that has amazing cleaning power without needing a warning label ten miles long and smells like sunshine in the forest, this read is for you. The formula in this post is gentle enough to use on most every surface, around children and pets and considered a safe, non-toxic and eco-friendly replacement for the myriad of harmful cleaners available in stores today. It's versatile and budget friendly (literally made from foraged and scrapped items!).
To start this DIY, you'll want to save your citrus fruit rinds. I prefer a combination of orange, lemon & lime, but this is 100% up to you. Fresh rinds work best for this project, so try to use same day. Optionally you may choose to store used rinds in an air-tight container for a day or two if needed until ready to be used. Next you will require pine needles. We are fortunate enough to have pine trees on our property so foraging was easy, but if you are not this lucky, plan a day hike, or ask friends. The only other ingredient at this point is vinegar. Distilled white vinegar is preferable as it won't stain, and there are natural varieties readily available in grocery stores. Place rinds and pine needles is a jar and top up with the vinegar, muddle with a wooden spoon handle (to help release the plant's natural oils) then seal and allow to "steep" for a few weeks. You are now ready to strain the mixture through cheesecloth and use. I added Lemon & Bergamot essential oils to enhance the citrusy scent, but this is not necessary. Below are several ways the vinegar can be diluted and used for common household cleaning + a video how-to.
Floors - Mix 1/2 cup of vinegar solution with approx. 1 gallon of water *not advised for hardwood or stone flooring as it can damage the finish.
Washing Machine - Run an empty load through the washing machine using 1-2 cups of vinegar solution to eliminate odors
Appliances - equal parts vinegar to water in a spray bottle, spray & wipe with cloth
Bathrooms - add 1 cup to toilet, allow to sit then scrub as usual; grimy tubs can be cleaned by adding vinegar solution to baking soda and making a paste.
General purpose/ Windows - 1 part water to 2 parts vinegar
Health Benefits in our DIY cleaner? Yes! Pine Needle (Oil) not only lends a bold outdoors scent to the cleaner but it also has the ability to fight bacteria, fungi and molds. Citrus fruits are high in acidity, which means they're a great stain-fighter AND also antibacterial & antiseptic.
Regards,
Tina Marie
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