Easy, Non Toxic DIY Cleaning Solution

Did you know that it is actually super beneficial for your body and immune system to be exposed to germs on the regular? A completely sterile environment weakens your immune system . These days it is so hard to know what products you can trust and find some that are cost effective. My favorite cleaner is the Thieves all purpose cleaner (along with the other Thieves products) from Young Living. I wrote some about my experience with Young Living here and have linked an option for my favorite Thieves cleaning bundle here in case you want to try. But sometimes, we just want the absolute cheapest and simplest option; this is it!

How to Make

I call this my “DIY Citrus Cleaner” and that is exactly what it is. Whenever I am peeling citrus fruits, I add the peels to a glass jar and top it with regular white vinegar. In order for this to become all purpose cleaner, ready for disinfectant use, it must sit for 4-6 weeks. Once you start a rotation, you will never run out. I prefer to use oranges because I like the scent better, but lemons work too! If you want to soften the vinegar scent, you can add some essential oils! I like to add vanilla essential oil at times or cinnamon oil to the orange citrus solution during holiday seasons.

How to Use

You do not need to worry about the vinegar smell if that is off-putting to you. When the solution dries, it does not leave behind any vinegar scent at all. After fermenting the solution for a minimum of four weeks in a cabinet or other cool/dry place, use a funnel to disperse the solution into a glass jar. You can typically use about 1 part solution, 2 parts water since the solution is concentrated. As you use your solution, you can continue to add more vinegar and peels when available.

I love to use this for jobs the require a LOT of cleaning where I wouldn’t want to use up my beloved Thieves cleaner. I enjoy repurposing the citrus peels and challenging myself to zero waste in some ways haha! Regardless of which cleaning brand you are partial to, this cleaning solution is helpful to keep in your back pocket!

Wishing you cozy times in clean spaces, and peace of mind.

xoxo,

Meredith