DIY Magic Spray Cleaner: A Natural Solution for a Cleaner Home
Why I Started Making My Own Counter Spray
I was inspired to start making my own counter spray after learning about the potential hazards of some store-bought cleaners. Many commercial counter sprays contain ingredients that can be harmful to health, including toxic chemicals and synthetic fragrances. Some of these products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can irritate the eyes and throat, cause headaches, and contribute to chronic respiratory problems. Additionally, even products labeled as "green" or "natural" may contain harmful chemicals. The American Lung Association and various health-focused websites highlight the risks associated with these ingredients and the importance of minimizing exposure to them.
This concern led me to the CDC's recommendation that soapy water is sufficient for regular cleaning in the kitchen, except when disinfecting areas that have come into contact with raw meat.
The Ingredients for My Magic Spray Cleaner
My homemade counter spray is simple and effective, using just three ingredients:
Filtered water: Used as a base, diluting the other ingredients and making the spray easy to apply.
Castile soap (I prefer Dr. Bronner's): According to Dr. Bronner's and other reliable sources, Castile soap is effective in breaking down dirt, grease, and grime due to its natural oils. It's a proven ingredient in many DIY cleaning recipes (American Lung Association) (Nature's Nurture).
Essential oils (usually orange or eucalyptus): Essential oils like orange and eucalyptus are not only used for their fragrance but also for their natural disinfectant properties. Studies have shown that essential oils can have antimicrobial effects, making them a beneficial addition to your cleaning spray (Don't Mess with Mama).
This combination ensures a natural, non-toxic cleaner that is both safe and pleasant-smelling.
How to Make the Magic Spray Cleaner
Making your own counter spray is quick and easy. Here’s how I do it:
Fill a reusable glass spray bottle about 90% full with filtered water.
Add about 2 tablespoons of Castile soap.
Add 10-15 drops of essential oil – I usually go for orange or eucalyptus for their refreshing scents.
Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients, and you're done!
The whole process takes just a minute or two, and you'll have a natural, non-toxic cleaner ready to use.
Why I Love My Homemade Spray
My homemade spray is not only effective but also cost-efficient. Let’s break down the cost:
Filtered Water: Minimal cost.
Castile Soap: A 32-ounce bottle of Dr. Bronner's Castile soap costs around $15 and provides about 64 tablespoons. This means each batch of cleaner costs about $0.47 in soap.
Essential Oils: A 15ml bottle of essential oil (about 250 drops) costs around $10. With 10-15 drops per batch, the cost is approximately $0.40-$0.60 per batch.
Overall, each batch of cleaner costs well under a dollar, making it significantly cheaper than most store-bought options. Plus, it smells fantastic and I love knowing that the ingredients won’t harm us.
Tips and Adjustments
While making my own cleaner, I discovered that lavender isn't my favorite scent for the kitchen. I prefer the fresh and invigorating scents of orange and eucalyptus. Additionally, if I've handled raw meat on the counters, I clean the area with my homemade spray and then follow up with all-natural disinfectant wipes to ensure proper disinfection.
Benefits of Switching to Homemade Cleaner
Switching to homemade cleaner has made my cleaning routine much easier and cheaper. A bottle of Castile soap lasts a very long time, so I always have the ingredients on hand to whip up a new batch. The impact on my household environment has been positive, with fewer chemicals and a fresh, natural scent.
Expanding My DIY Cleaning Arsenal
Inspired by the success of my counter spray, I’ve started making other DIY cleaning products. Today, I’m making my own laundry soap for the first time. I also make my own carpet deodorizer for vacuuming and have recently started making my own bug spray. Each new product adds to the natural and non-toxic environment I’m creating in my home.
A Personal Touch
I even made my own label for my cleaning spray bottle, calling it "Magic Spray Cleaner." It's pink and I printed it with a small die-cutting machine. It’s a small touch, but it makes me smile every time I use it.
This is my DIY "Magic Spray Cleaner," made with simple and natural ingredients. It's a safe and effective cleaner that smells wonderful and keeps my kitchen fresh. Making your own cleaning products is super easy, way cheaper, and non-toxic.
By making small changes like these, you can create a healthier, more environmentally friendly home. Plus, it's rewarding to know exactly what goes into the products you use every day. Give it a try and see the difference it can make!