Add Essential Oils to Your Cleaning Routine (Here’s How)
Jess O'Shea • January 1, 2026
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Looking for a natural, effective, and great-smelling way to upgrade your cleaning routine? Essential oils are your secret weapon. They’re not just about aromatherapy — many have powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Here's how to start using them around the home.
Why Use Essential Oils for Cleaning?
- Natural Disinfectant: Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and lemon have antimicrobial properties.
- Great Scents: Say goodbye to harsh chemical smells and hello to fresh, uplifting fragrances.
- Customizable: You can mix and match oils based on your cleaning goals and preferences.
- Residue-Free: Unlike some commercial products, oils don’t leave harmful residues on surfaces.
5 Simple Ways to Use Essential Oils for Cleaning
1. DIY All-Purpose Spray
- Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 20 drops of lemon or tea tree oil in a spray bottle.
- Shake before each use. Great for countertops, sinks, and bathrooms.
2. Deodorizing Carpet Sprinkle
- Combine 1 cup baking soda with 10–15 drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil.
- Sprinkle on carpets, leave for 10–15 minutes, then vacuum.
3. Toilet Bowl Refresher
- Add 2 drops of peppermint or tea tree oil to the toilet bowl before scrubbing.
4. Freshen Laundry
- Add 5–10 drops of your favorite essential oil (like lavender or citrus) to a damp cloth and toss it in with your laundry in the dryer.
5. Disinfect Kitchen Sponges
- Fill a bowl with hot water, add 5 drops of lemon oil, soak your sponge for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Safety Tips
- Always dilute essential oils before using them on surfaces.
- Use glass spray bottles when mixing vinegar and essential oils (some oils can degrade plastic).
- Store oils away from direct sunlight and heat.
Top Cleaning Oils to Try
- Lemon – Cuts grease, smells clean, great for kitchens
- Tea Tree – Antifungal and antibacterial, perfect for bathrooms
- Lavender – Calming and fresh, great for bedrooms and laundry
- Eucalyptus – Strong, refreshing scent, ideal for bathrooms
- Peppermint – Energizing and deodorizing
With just a few drops, you can elevate your cleaning routine into a fresh, non-toxic, and effective ritual. Give it a try — your nose (and your surfaces) will thank you!
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