LEMON + VINEGAR EARTH-FRIENDLY CLEANER

Anytime you choose an earth-friendly alternative in your life, you may just be saving the life of a precious pollinator!

One easy way to cut down on toxins in the environment is opting for homemade, earth-friendly household cleaners. 

Here are a few different ways to make cleaners and some important notes about using lemon and vinegar in your household cleaning regimen. 

• All-Purpose Cleaner: To make all-purpose cleaner, pour 1/2 cup vinegar into a spray bottle. Add 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon castile soap and 20 drops lemon essential oil. Screw on lid and shake well. To use: shake the mixture well,  spray surface and wipe clean with a damp cloth.

• Glass Cleaner: To create an easy DIY glass cleaning spray at home, shaking up 1 tablespoon white vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon juice in an empty spray bottle, then pour in 1 cup of hot (but not boiling) water and shake to mix.

• Mild Disinfectant: Acetic acid (white vinegar) can act as a disinfectant that can destroy some bacteria and viruses. Household natural sanitizers like lemon juice and vinegar reduced the number of pathogens to undetectable levels. Also, vinegar can inhibit growth of and kill some food-borne pathogenic bacteria.

• Antibacterial Notes: The acid in lemons is antibacterial and antiseptic, and it acts as a natural bleach. The citrus smell of lemon is refreshing and invigorating. Oils in the rinds can also help to clean and shine. While lemons and lemon juice can do a great job with many household chores, it is not a disinfectant on its own.

Consider switching to a natural household cleaner that features lemon and vinegar.