Cleaning Recipes for the Kitchen
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home. Whether you're cooking meals for your family, having late night talks with your children or hosting a dinner party, you want your kitchen to be clean. To help make that process easier, try one of our cleaning recipes with essential oils! From wiping down counters to ridding your sink of soap scum and leftover food, RMO has you and your kitchen covered.
Ready-to-Use Kitchen Wipes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Water
- 1 ounce Liquid Castile Soap
- 6 - 8 drops Tangerine
Directions: In a sealable container, add formula and store multiple squares of soft cotton cloth or cellulose sponges. After use, they can be washed and returned to the container. Keep it tightly sealed in between uses.
Fruity Dishwashing Blend
Ingredients:
- 15 drops Citrus Blend
- 6 drops Lavender
- 5 drops Bergamot
- Liquid Castile soap
Directions: Fill a clean 22 ounce plastic squirt bottle with castile soap (diluted according to directions if using a concentrate). Add the essential oils. Shake the bottle before each use. Add 1-2 tablespoons of the liquid to the dishwasher and wash as usual.
Sink Scrubber for Stains
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOdrYM08Jnc]Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup Borax
- 1/4 cup Baking Soda
- 8 drops Rosemary, Eucalyptus Globulus or Tea Tree
- 3/4 cup Vinegar (for rinsing)
Directions: Combine the Borax, baking soda, and essential oil in an airtight container and shake well to blend. Keep closed and allow to sit for 24 hours. Sprinkle a small amount of the powder into the sink and scrub with a damp sponge. Rinse sink with vinegar, then run hot water for 5 minutes. Disclaimer: Rocky Mountain Oils is not liable for any damage caused by use of these recipes. Each recipe was tested by RMO employees and did not cause damage to home or person, but we still implore our customers to use caution before using a recipe in their home. Test recipes on small areas before applying them to the entire surface and do not apply recipes to areas that are potentially sensitive (i.e. priceless Victorian tubs, Baby Grand pianos, etc.).
12 Best Cleaning Recipes for the Kitchen You Must Try
We've all been there—standing in the kitchen, looking at a mess that seems impossible to clean. But fear not! With suitable cleaning recipes, your kitchen can shine brightly once again. Let's dive deep into nature's best solutions and see how to make our kitchen gleam without harsh chemicals.
Cleaning Recipes for the Kitchen
From greasy stovetops to stained countertops, the kitchen can be a challenging space to keep clean. But with a few natural ingredients, you can whip up robust cleaning solutions that'll leave your kitchen looking brand new.
Natural Cleaning Agents
Baking Soda Wonders
Often found in many kitchens, baking soda is a versatile cleaner. It is a mild abrasive, perfect for tackling tough stains on countertops and ovens. Just create a paste with water, and you're good to go!
The Magic of White Vinegar
White vinegar, apart from being an essential kitchen ingredient, serves as an effective cleaner. Its acidity can dissolve mineral deposits and cut through grease. Mix it with water, and you've got a natural all-purpose cleaner.
Lemon: Nature's Disinfectant
Lemons aren't just for lemonade! Their citric acid can break down stains and add a fresh scent to your cleaning routine. Combine lemon juice with white vinegar for an even more potent solution.
Benefits of Homemade Cleaning Recipes
Environment-friendly
Homemade cleaners often lack the harmful chemicals in store-bought solutions, making them safe for the planet.
Cost-effective
Save money by utilizing ingredients already present in your kitchen.
Safe for Families
Natural cleaning recipes ensure your loved ones aren't exposed to toxic chemicals.
Kitchen Surfaces Cleaning
Countertops and Tables
A mixture of white vinegar and water can keep your surfaces shining.
Kitchen Appliances
A paste made of baking soda and water can remove those pesky stains and splatters for appliances.
Sinks and Faucets
Rub a slice of lemon over your sink and faucets for that extra shine.
Floors and Tiles
Fighting Stubborn Stains
A mixture of baking soda, lemon juice, and water can work wonders for tough stains on the floor.
Regular Maintenance Techniques
Sweep daily and mop with a vinegar solution weekly to keep floors pristine.
Effective Cleaning Tools
Scrubbing Brushes
Essential for scrubbing away stubborn stains.
Cloth and Sponges
It is ideal for wiping surfaces and absorbing spills.
Natural Scrub Alternatives
Grains of rice can clean vases and bottles, while coarse salt can scrub cast iron pans.
Storage Tips for Homemade Solutions
Proper Containers
Store in glass containers to maintain the solution's potency.
Labeling Essentials
Always label your solutions to avoid confusion.
Shelf-life and Usage
Natural solutions tend to have a shorter shelf life. Use within a week, and always check for any signs of spoilage.
Common Kitchen Cleaning Mistakes
Overusing Products
Less is often more! Overusing even natural products can leave residues. So, remember—use just enough to get the job done.
Ignoring Small Spaces and Crevices
Ever notice that gunk buildup in the corner of your countertop? Those little spaces need love, too. Always pay attention to the nooks and crannies.
Forgetting About Appliance Interiors
Microwaves, ovens, and fridges have feelings too! Well, not really, but they need a regular inside clean. A simple swipe with a vinegar solution can keep them fresh.
Cleaning Schedule for Optimal Results
Daily Routines
A quick wipe-down of countertops and a floor sweep can save you from hours of cleaning later in the week.
Weekly Cleaning Sessions
Deep clean one particular section of the kitchen every week. This week could be the oven; next week, the fridge!
Monthly Deep Cleans
Once a month, roll up those sleeves and thoroughly scrub down the entire kitchen. Trust me, it'll make you feel like a brand-new person.
FAQ
What's the best natural disinfectant for the kitchen?
The lemon and white vinegar combo is a powerful, natural disinfectant. It not only cleans but also leaves a pleasant scent.
How often should I deep clean my kitchen?
A monthly deep clean coupled with daily maintenance should keep your kitchen spotless.
Can I clean wooden surfaces with vinegar?
Yes, but in diluted form. Too much vinegar can damage the wood. Always do a patch test first!
Is baking soda safe for all kitchen surfaces?
While baking soda is mild, it's still abrasive. Use caution on delicate surfaces, and always test a small area first.
How do I store homemade cleaning solutions?
Glass containers are ideal. Remember to label them and check regularly for any signs of spoilage.
What can I do about persistent kitchen odors?
Place a bowl of baking soda or white vinegar in the corner. These natural solutions absorb odors, leaving your kitchen smelling fresh.
Conclusion
A clean kitchen is a happy kitchen. And, with these natural cleaning recipes, your kitchen will sparkle, and you'll also be doing your bit for the planet, your wallet, and your family's health. So, head to your pantry instead of the store the next time you spot a stain or a spill. After all, nature's got your back!