The 4 Best Essential Oils for Cleaning

Why do we keep buying the same household cleaning products?

Is it habit? The lure of the ‘fragrance’ now included in many products? Or the simple convenience of being able to grab a bottle of whatever you need during your weekly grocery shop?

If you’re looking for ways to use less chemicals in your cleaning routine, essential oils may be the answer. Here are the best oils for cleaning.

Why are essential oils used for cleaning?

Many pure essential oils have powerful antiseptic and antiviral properties that make them well suited to many chores around the home.

Combined with just one or two other ingredients, you can create a potent and fresh smelling cleaner for a number of household tasks.

Other Things You'll Need in Your Natural Cleaning Kit

You only need a few extra items in your cleaning arsenal to make your own cleaning products; some you may already have in your kitchen pantry.

• glass spray bottle (Target or Amazon are your best options)
• whit vinegar
• isocol (rubbing alcohol)
• baking soda
• castile soap (liquid)

The 4 Best Essential Oils to Clean With

While you may love the aroma of certain essential oils, not all of them have the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties needed to be an effective cleaner as well.

We’ve done the research for you and included some handy ways to use your essential oil cleaning combinations below.

1. Lemon

Most citrus-based oils will work here but lemon is my personal favourite. Lemons themselves are useful natural cleaners, so it makes sense this oil, which is usually made by cold-pressing lemons, makes this list.

Lemon has antibacterial properties combined with that fresh and energising scent that just makes your home smell clean.

How to use lemon essential oil for cleaning

• Clean the microwave - In a microwave-safe bowl, add water and 5 drops of lemon oil. Microwave for a few minutes, carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior.

• Fridge refresher - Put a few drops of oil onto a cotton ball and put it on the top shelf of the fridge to nix nasty smells.

• Freshen up the dishwasher - Sprinkle some baking soda on the base along with 7 drops of lemon oil. Make sure you run the machine empty on a hot cycle.

2. Tea tree

Most citrus-based oils will work here but lemon is my personal favourite. Lemons themselves are useful natural cleaners, so it makes sense this oil, which is usually made by cold-pressing lemons, makes this list.

Lemon has antibacterial properties combined with that fresh and energising scent that just makes your home smell clean.

How to use tea tree oil for cleaning

• Clean the microwave - In a microwave-safe bowl, add water and 5 drops of lemon oil. Microwave for a few minutes, carefully remove the bowl and wipe down the interior.

• Fridge refresher - Put a few drops of oil onto a cotton ball and put it on the top shelf of the fridge to nix nasty smells.

• Freshen up the dishwasher - Sprinkle some baking soda on the base along with 7 drops of lemon oil. Make sure you run the machine empty on a hot cycle.

3. Lavender

Lavender is fantastic at deodorising but it also possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties. It’s also known as one of the more relaxing scents and effectively promotes more restful sleep.

How to use lavender oil for cleaning

• Carpet refresher - Add 10 drops of oil to baking soda and sprinkle on your carpet. Leave for 30 minutes before vacuuming – both baking soda and the oil have deodorising properties and the lavender will make your carpet smell phenomenal.

• Sticker remover - Add a few drops to get rid of any residual adhesive from labels.

• Scented clothes - Use a face washer or small piece of cloth and put about 10 drops on it. Place the cloth or washer into your drawers to freshen up your clothes.

• Relaxing sheets - You just need to add four drops to the machine when you’re next washing your linen to create calming and lovely smelling sheets.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties so it’s a fantastic addition to any homemade cleaner.

As an extra, peppermint oil’s refreshing scent will invigorate your home, while it can also prevent pests and rodents.

How to use peppermint essential oil at home

• Window/mirror cleaner - You’ll find a great peppermint shower spray recipe here, which you can also use on your windows. You can replace the vodka with rubbing alcohol and make sure you always use a microfibre cloth to avoid streaking.

• Pest repellent - Add a few drops to cotton balls and place them in areas with pest problems. You’ll need to add additional drops every few days.

Bonus Recipe - How to Make an All-purpose Essential Oil Spray

All you need is 100mls of rubbing alcohol, 30 drops of essential oil (a mix of lavender, tea tree and lemon will work well) and water. Remember to shake before using.

Some Important Things to Remember

• Use glass spray bottles instead of plastic as essential oils can wear plastic down over time.

• You should always test your mixture on an inconspicuous section first, just to make sure it won’t cause any damage.

• There are some warnings about using certain essential oils if you are pregnant or have certain health conditions. Consult with your doctor or do your own research before using.