Spring Cleaning Naturally with Plant Therapy Essential Oils

I understand that some parts of the country are still having snow right now, but here in Tennessee my thermometer has topped 80 degrees for the past 2 days! I'm ready to get some fresh air going in here and get my spring cleaning going. 

In the past spring cleaning has meant the smell of Pine Sol and/or bleach but I'm going all natural this year courtesy of Plant Therapy's Essential Oils. 

I received some great oils to get me going on some homemade cleaners.

Tea Tree

Tea Tree Essential Oil is best known for its antimicrobial activities. It contains the compound Terpinen-4-ol which is thought to be the responsible for fighting all three categories of infectious organisms (bacteria, fungi, and viruses)

Peppermint

Peppermint Japanese Essential Oil has long been credited as being useful in combating stomach ailments. It is also viewed as an antispasmodic and antimicrobial agent.

Lemon

Lemon Essential Oil has been historically recognized as a cleanser. It is reputed as being antiseptic, and as having refreshing and cooling properties. 

Eucalyptus

Diffuse Eucalyptus Globulus essential oil into the air to help with frequent sneezing, flu, respiratory problems, headaches and improving concentration. Also can be used as an insect repellant.

The antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil make it great for an all-purpose cleaner:

• 1 Cup White Vinegar
• 1 Cup Water
• 5 Drops of Tea Tree Oil

Shake gently into a small spray bottle and use to wipe sinks, counters, faucets and doorknobs. Store the unused portion in a cabinet away from the light.

For a natural air freshener mix the following ingredients into a decorative bowl:

• 1 Cup of Baking Soda
• 10 drops of essential oil (Use your favorite scent, I like lemon or sweet orange)

Set the bowl out to freshen a small area (like the bathroom) and stir it occasionally. If you notice the smell starting to wane you can either add more oil OR sprinkle the concoction into the carpet and vacuum it up! Its much better than Carpet Fresh and better for you.

Peppermint Oil will help repel ants that will start coming around now that the weather is getting warmer. Spray around your entryways and anywhere they can enter your home.

Diffuse Eucalyptus to help get rid of lingering sniffles from the weather changes. You can also use about 20 drops into your washing machine (along with your regular detergent) to help kill dust mites on your linens.

For a floor cleaner, mix the following into your mop bucket:

• 1 Gallon of Hot Water
• 10-20 drops of essential oil of your choice (lemon is great but I'm partial to citrus scents)
• 1 - 2 TBPS of Castille Soap (Found in most grocery stores in the natural section)

The best thing about essential oils (other than being all-natural) is their versatility. Do some research and try different scents to see what works for you. In addition to cleaning properties they are also great for aromatherapy. There are some warnings associated with essential oils so make sure to always read labels and literature that comes with them. Plant Therapy gives you all of this information on their website so be sure to check them out!

For a limited time, you can also use code myjourney10 to get $10 off your purchase of $25 or more (one code per customer, not valid for gift certificates)! Or enter to win your own Plant Therapy Oils in the Honor The Earth Giveaway Hop which is going on between April 9 and April 23, 2013.

Disclosure: I received a selection of Plant Therapy Essential Oils in order to facilitate a review. I was not financially compensated nor was I required to provide a positive review. My opinions are my own and may differ from yours.