Wednesday, March 27, 2013

The Best Essential Oils For Disinfecting Counters

Keep counters and appliances germ free with essential oils.


Many commercial cleaning products contain toxic ingredients that are harmful to humans and family pets. These noxious ingredients can aggravate asthma and allergies and can cause skin irritations and chemical burns. Essential oils contain no synthetic fragrances or artificial ingredients. Pure and natural, essential oils are a safe, environmentally friendly alternative to caustic chemical cleaning products. Essential oils are prized for their anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-infectious properties. When used for disinfecting countertops, essential oils cut through the toughest soil and leave counters sparkling clean and sanitary.


Lemon


Lemon cuts through grease and grime, leaving a fresh, clean scent.


High in citric acid, Citrus limonum "lemon" essential oil can remove stains, brighten and sanitize without the use of harmful chemicals or bleach. Fill an 8-oz. spray bottle with 4 oz. of water. Add 20 to 30 drops of therapeutic grade lemon essential oil and 4 oz. of white vinegar. Spray on countertops, sinks and appliances to remove grease and food residue. Wipe with a clean, damp cloth.


Thyme


Sweet thyme presents a fresh, herbacous scent.


Add 3 drops of thyme essential oil and 3 drops of Citrus sinensis "orange" essential oil to 1 oz. of white vinegar. Use the mixture to scrub wooden cutting boards, countertops and kitchen appliances. Scrub with a soft brush, and wipe with a clean cloth saturated in hot water. The mixture disinfects food preparation surfaces, leaves no residue and is safe to use around small children and family pets.


Eucalyptus


The scent of eucalyptus is sweet, slightly camphorous and pungent.








Toxin free, natural and pure, Eucalyptus radiata "eucalyptus" essential oil has a multitude of application in the home. Eucalyptus freshens the air, deters mites and other troublesome insects and effectively cleans and disinfects. Mix 20 to 30 drops of therapeutic grade eucalyptus essential oil with 1/4 cup of organic dishwashing liquid soap, 1 cup of white rice vinegar and 1 cup of water. Place in a spray bottle. Use the spray to disinfect countertops, appliances, plumbing fixtures and other hard surfaces. Remove built-up grease, fingerprints and soil by washing surfaces with the spray and a clean cloth saturated with hot water. Eucalyptus freshens the air and leaves a pleasant, clean fragrance.


Oregano and Cinnamon


Oregano and cinnamon are two of the most valued essential oils in the home medical chest. Cultivated in Sri Lanka for centuries, Cinnamomum zeylanicum "cinnamon" is among the most antiseptic essential oils with a high antioxidant rating. Combine 10 to 12 drops of cinnamon essential oil with 6 drops of oregano essential oil and 1 cup of white vinegar. Place in a spray bottle, and mist countertops and hard surfaces to kill germs and harmful bacteria.

Tags: essential white, essential white vinegar, spray bottle, white vinegar, clean cloth, clean cloth saturated, cleaning products