Eco-Friendly DIY Cleaners for a Fresh Spring Clean

Spring cleaning: a time to throw open the windows, let in the fresh air and wonder how everything got so messy and dirty during those dreary days of winter. The sunshine seems to illuminate every dust bunny, window smudge and forgotten corner of our living spaces.

With warmer days ahead, it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button on both our living spaces and our mindsets. However, the sight of mops, buckets, vacuums, and a mountain of cleaning supplies can be daunting during the spring cleaning frenzy. Hidden among these supplies are often harsh chemicals that could pose risks to our health and take a toll on the environment. Some chemical cleaners can pollute water systems, cause eye and skin irritation and breathing difficulties and are often difficult to dispose of properly.

Homemade cleaners offer an alternative to storebought chemical products. They’re gentler, less likely to cause irritation, eco-friendly, surprisingly easy to make and a bit easier on the wallet long term. Plus, you have full control over the ingredients, so you know exactly what’s in them and can adjust their strength to suit your needs. Pair these do-ityourself cleaning supplies with reusable cloths and mops and your home will be sparkling clean and smelling fresh in no time.

The City of Westerville offers a free household hazardous waste dropoff twice a year. Visit www.Westerville.org/HHW for the next event.

DIY All-Purpose Cleaner

• 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Borax

• 1 teaspoon castile soap

• 10 drops essential oil (a lavender and lemon blend works well)

• 4 cups hot water

Pour all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake to combine. This all-purpose cleaner can be stored for one month.

Natural Furniture Polish

• 1 cup walnut, flax seed, olive or hemp oil

• ¼ cup distilled white vinegar

• 5 drops of essential oil, lemon or orange

Pour all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake to combine. This all-purpose cleaner can be stored for one month.

Tub and Tile Cleaner

• 1 cup baking soda

• ¼ cup castile soap

• 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide

• 8 drops essential oil (lavender and rosemary blend works well)

Pour all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake to combine. This all-purpose cleaner can be stored for one month.

Streak Free Glass Cleaner

• 1 cup distilled white vinegar

• 1 cup warm water

• 1 drop dishwashing detergent

Pour all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake to combine. This all-purpose cleaner can be stored for one month.