Add Essential Oils to Your Cleaning Routine (Here’s How)

Jess O'Shea • February 12, 2026

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
  2. Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 20 drops of lemon or tea tree oil in a spray bottle.
  3. Shake before each use. Great for countertops, sinks, and bathrooms.
  4. Deodorizing Carpet Sprinkle
  5. Combine 1 cup baking soda with 10–15 drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil.
  6. Sprinkle on carpets, leave for 10–15 minutes, then vacuum.
  7. Toilet Bowl Refresher
  8. Add 2 drops of peppermint or tea tree oil to the toilet bowl before scrubbing.
  9. Freshen Laundry
  10. 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.
  11. Disinfect Kitchen Sponges
  12. 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!

By Jess O'Shea September 2, 2026
Planning a road trip? Discover why professional car detailing before your journey can create a cleaner, more comfortable drive with O'Shea Cleaning & Support Services.
By Jess O'Shea August 31, 2026
Dog hair, muddy paws and pet mess can quickly take over your car. Discover how professional car detailing from O'Shea helps refresh pet-filled vehicles.
By Jess O'Shea August 28, 2026
Your work ute works hard. Discover how professional ute and car detailing from O'Shea helps remove dirt, dust, mud and everyday work mess.
By Jess O'Shea August 26, 2026
Keep your vehicle looking its best with professional exterior car detailing and polishing from O'Shea Cleaning & Support Services in Swan Hill.
By Jess O'Shea August 24, 2026
A clean car can make every journey feel better. Discover how professional car detailing improves comfort, confidence, and your everyday driving experience.
By Jess O'Shea August 21, 2026
What does professional interior car detailing include? Discover how O'Shea thoroughly cleans carpets, seats, dashboards, windows, vents and more.
By Jess O'Shea August 19, 2026
From crumbs and muddy shoes to pet hair and spills, discover how O'Shea's professional family car detailing service restores comfort, cleanliness, and pride.
By Jess O'Shea August 17, 2026
Wondering how often your car needs professional detailing? Discover the ideal detailing schedule based on your lifestyle and driving habits with O'Shea.
By Jess O'Shea August 14, 2026
Wondering whether your vehicle needs a car wash or a professional detail? Learn the key differences and discover why O'Shea's car detailing service delivers longer-lasting results.
By Jess O'Shea August 12, 2026
Selling your car? Discover how professional car detailing from O'Shea Cleaning & Support Services helps create a great first impression and maximise buyer appeal.