I recently received a question from one of my readers: 'Is orange oil safe for dogs?' A quick Google search yields numerous articles warning about its potential danger and toxicity to dogs. However, I've personally used orange essential oil with my 5-pound chihuahua for over 8 years, and he's thriving. When it comes to essential oil safety for pets, quality, purity, and proper usage are paramount. So, let's delve into the truth about orange oil and its safety for our animal companions.
Unveiling Orange Oil:
Orange essential oil, what I like to call 'sunshine in a bottle', is extracted from the peel of oranges through cold pressing the rind. Just a whiff can instantly boost your mood and energy levels. The process of cold pressing involves mechanically pressing the peel to extract the essential oil, ensuring that the aromatic and wellness properties remain intact. Cold pressing is preferred for most citrus oils because it yields the essential oil without using heat or solvent chemicals.
Did you know that additionally, other parts of orange trees are distilled for a unique essential oil as well? Orange blossoms of the bitter orange tree Citrus aurantium amara, yield neroli oil, known for its floral aroma and calming properties, while the leaves of the same tree produce petitgrain oil, valued for its green and woody scent and uplifting qualities.
The Benefits Of Orange Essential Oil:
Orange is perfect for banishing feelings of lethargy and uplifting your spirits on even the gloomiest of days. Its fresh aroma can help combat unpleasant odors in your home, making it a popular choice for DIY pet-friendly air fresheners and cleaning solutions. Additionally, it also works well as an adhesive remover from non porous surfaces. Orange oil has also been studied as a flea and tick repellant and for its usefulness to skin health.
Safety First:
Safely using essential oils with your pets always comes down to the quality and purity of the essential oil you are using and how you use it! When used appropriately, high quality, pure, and premium essential oils can be safe for our dogs! Adulterated essential oils used in the wrong manner or in too large of an amount are dangerous!
So how do you know you have a pure and high quality essential oil? Ask questions and read your labels. The label should have the botanical name and if it lists any additional ingredients other than the botanical name, it isn't a pure essential oil. Find a supplier and ask them the following questions:
- Do you own your farms?
- Can I visit the farms?
- Do you have fully equipped labs and is each essential oil tested?
- Do you have trained staff in aromas?
- Do you visit suppliers distilleries?
- Do you test for peak harvest times?
- Do you harvest at peak times?
- Do you discard mistakes?
- Do you distill without using solvents?
- Do you bottle your own oils?
These questions provide valuable insights into the practices and standards of your essential oil supplier. It's important to note that you will not find a high-quality essential oil from a company that can answer 'yes' to these questions at your local supermarket or drugstore.
If you're in search of high-quality, pure, and premium essential oils, or haven't found a company that can affirmatively answer every question, I invite you to explore my recommended essential oil supplier HERE. Having personally visited their farms and actively participated in the planting and distillation processes, I can attest to their commitment to quality!
Now that we have a pure essential oil, how do we properly use it?
Utilizing essential oils effectively depends on your desired outcome. To uplift your mood, simply inhale directly from the bottle. For a refreshing ambiance throughout your home, diffuse essential oils using a diffuser, providing both odor control and wellness benefits. Replace conventional cleaning products with DIY alternatives infused with essential oils for enhanced cleaning power and a delightful aroma. You can make your own perfume or muscle rub, possibilities abound!
When using essential oils with dogs, a safe and effective approach is to become a 'walking diffuser' by wearing the oil as perfume. Dogs possess a heightened sense of smell, allowing them to detect the aroma even when you're simply wearing it. Alternatively, you can hold the bottle of essential oil near your dog and observe their reaction. It's important to remember that dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, so using oils in this manner can easily avoid overwhelm for them and by positively influencing your own mood with essential oils, you indirectly impact your dog's demeanor.
Using an essential oil diffuser can enhance your home's ambiance while ensuring safe dilution. There are many essential oil diffusers on the market and you can explore different diffuser options HERE to find the best fit for you. I prefer ultrasonic diffusers, which blend water and essential oils.
Follow your diffusers instructions and start with a quarter to half of the recommended amount of essential oil. Then monitor your dog's reaction. Dogs have a heightened sense of smell and it's important to introduce them gradually to essential oils and avoid overwhelm. Additionally, each dog is unique and may respond differently to essential oils. Also, keep in mind your dogs size, age, and health condition, as this can affect how they react to an essential oil as well. Always leave a way out of the room and the opportunity for your dog to leave if they choose. For safety guidelines on diffusing oils with your dog, click HERE.
This is a favorite diffuser recipe that has really helped bring my nervous chi' BooBoo out of his shell. Orange is known as the 'happy' oil and lavender as the 'relax' oil. Pairing them together on days when he seems extra jumpy and wants to hide, definitely seems to help him relax and have a more positive vibe!
2 drops orange essential oil
2 drops lavender essential oil
Topical Use:
Yes, you can apply orange oil topically as well. Properly diluted orange oil can be beneficial and help maintain healthy skin. Orange oil is commonly found in shampoos and conditioners for dogs. You can add a drop to a tablespoon of your natural shampoo for your dog or you can make a roller bottle with a carrier oil and apply to the desired area to support skin. To learn how to make a roller bottle click HERE. I like to add 10 drops of essential oil per 10 ml of carrier oil. For my quick and easy dilution chart, click HERE.
Here's a recipe to try that I like to use to support skin:
3 drops orange essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
3 drops copaiba essential oil
Add the above oils to a 10 ml roller bottle (available on Amazon) and fill it with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil, which I prefer for its light, non-greasy, odorless, and fast-absorbing qualities.
Note that most citrus essential oils are 'phototoxic,' meaning they can increase sensitivity to sunlight. To err on the side of caution, consider applying them to areas under clothing or during the evening hours.
Orange essential oil as a supplement:
Ingesting essential oils is a hot topic and you might be wondering if essential oils can be taken internally?
When considering ingesting Orange essential oil or any essential oil, it's crucial to read the label carefully. The essential oil should be labeled specifically for ingestion and obtained from reputable sources.
Orange essential oil is also on the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) list. The GRAS designation is provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for substances considered safe for consumption in specific quantities. Many essential oils, including orange, are included on this list. These oils have undergone evaluation, and their safety has been established based on scientific evidence and expert consensus. While this list is published for human consumption and doesn't mean its necessarily safe for dogs, its a good place to start.
You may already be ingesting essential oils unknowingly through various everyday products. Orange essential oil, along with several others, is commonly used to flavor food, enhance beverages, and even flavor chewing gum. One of my favorite antioxidant drinks contains orange essential oil, and yes, I give this drink (in an appropriate amount) to my dogs and horses!
Ultimately, the decision to ingest orange essential oil or any essential oil is a personal one. While these oils may offer potential health benefits, it's essential to assess your comfort level and individual circumstances. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with ingesting essential oils, it's perfectly acceptable to refrain from this practice. There are many other ways you and your animal companions can benefit from using essential oils without taking them internally. You can sign up for my weekly newsletter devoted to safely using essential oils with dogs an horses HERE!
Orange essential oil can be a wonderful addition to your dog's wellness routine when used safely and responsibly. By understanding the quality, purity, and proper usage of essential oils, you can harness their benefits for your animal companions. Whether it's uplifting their mood, supporting their skin health, or creating a fresh ambiance in your home, orange oil has numerous applications. Remember to prioritize your pet's safety by sourcing high-quality pure essential oils and diluting them appropriately.
If you're eager to learn more about safely incorporating essential oils into your dog's wellness routine, consider enrolling in my comprehensive online course, 'Oily Dog Intro'. This course is designed to empower dog parents like you with the knowledge and skills needed to use essential oils safely and effectively for your 'kids'. From understanding quality and dilution to easy and practical ways to use essential oils with your dogs, 'Oily Dog Intro' covers everything you need to know to ensure the well-being of your four-legged friends. Join me on this educational journey to create a toxin-free environment and promote the holistic health of your fur kids. Click HERE to enroll now and never wonder how to use essential oils with your dog again!
Unlock the secrets of rosemary essential oil for holistic horse care. From muscle relief to mane and tail maintenance, discover how this versatile essential oil oil enhances your equine companion's well-being. Read more to revolutionize your horse's health care routine with the power of essential oils!
If you're like me and most pet owners, you want to keep your fur kids safe and healthy. We meticulously select their food, ensure they get enough exercise, and provide them with a loving home. But what about the air they breathe? Have you ever stopped to consider the impact of your indoor air quality on your pets' well-being?
The Impact on Indoor Air Quality
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), "indoor air pollution is often two to five times higher than outdoor air pollution levels, and in some cases, it can be up to 100 times higher." Two major sources of indoor air pollution include synthetic fragrances and cleaning products.
Synthetic fragrances are ubiquitous in our homes. They're found in air fresheners, cleaning products, candles, and even some pet grooming supplies. While they may make our homes smell pleasant, these fragrances can pose serious risks to us and our pets.
In addition to synthetic fragrances, cleaning products also contribute to indoor air pollution. Many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals such as ammonia, chlorine, and phthalates, which can release harmful fumes into the air. These chemicals can irritate the respiratory system, trigger allergies, and even pose long-term health risks with repeated exposure. Contrary to popular belief, you can clean your home without harsh chemical cleaning products. To easily start swapping out your cleaning products for safer alternatives, click HERE.
The Hidden Dangers
The ingredients used to create synthetic fragrances are often a closely guarded secret. Companies are not required to disclose the specific chemicals used, thanks to lax regulations in the fragrance industry. This lack of transparency means that consumers are largely in the dark about the potential dangers lurking in these products. This article published on ScienceDirect highlights that "fewer than 10% of air freshener ingredients are typically disclosed to the public".
Let's delve deeper into the hidden dangers of synthetic fragrances by highlighting three of the most harmful ingredients commonly found in these products:
- Phthalates: Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to enhance the scent of fragrances and prolong their staying power. These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone production and regulation in both humans and animals. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive issues, developmental abnormalities, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Pets exposed to phthalates may experience hormone imbalances, reproductive problems, and other adverse health effects.
- Parabens: Parabens are widely used in a variety of consumer products such as air fresheners, perfumes, cosmetic products, and cleaning supplies, due to their effectiveness as preservatives and their low cost. Parabens are favored by manufacturers because they are inexpensive to produce and highly effective at inhibiting microbial growth, thereby prolonging the shelf life of products. Despite their widespread use, parabens have come under scrutiny in recent years due to mounting evidence suggesting potential health risks associated with their use. Studies have shown that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, leading to hormone disruption and interference with the endocrine system. This has raised concerns about their possible role in the development of hormone-related cancers, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are a diverse group of chemicals that easily evaporate into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Many synthetic fragrances contain VOCs such as benzene, toluene, and xylene, which can have harmful effects on health. These chemicals can irritate the respiratory system, trigger allergic reactions, and contribute to the development of asthma and other respiratory conditions. Long-term exposure to VOCs has been associated with neurological damage, liver and kidney dysfunction, and an increased risk of cancer. This article on ScienceDirect highlights that "Of all VOCs emitted, approximately one-fourth are classified as potentially toxic or hazardous under one or more federal laws in the US, and all air fresheners tested emitted one or more of these compounds."
While much of the research on these ingredients has been focused on their effects on humans, there is reason to be concerned about their impact on pets as well. Dogs and other pets, like humans, have endocrine systems that regulate hormone production and function. Given that pets often have closer contact with these products than humans do, either through direct application or environmental exposure, they may be at increased risk of adverse health effects.
Additionally, pets have unique physiological differences from humans, such as faster metabolic rates and different detoxification mechanisms, which may influence how they respond to chemical exposures and put them at greater risk. When exposed to these chemicals, pets can experience a wide range of adverse reactions, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, behavioral changes, and toxicity.
Creating a Safe Environment
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize you and your pets' exposure to synthetic fragrances and create a safer environment for them:
Read Your Labels:
Given the prevalence of synthetic fragrances and harmful chemicals in household products, it's essential for you to become a savvy label reader. If I could only teach one thing, it would be to read your labels on each and every product you buy! Google 'dangers of' in front of any long words you can't pronounce and avoid any product that contains the word 'fragrance' like the plague!
Choose Natural Alternatives:
Look for products that are fragrance-free or use natural fragrances derived from essential oils. Avoid cleaners that contain fragrance, phthalates, formaldehyde, and other known toxins, opting instead for eco-friendly alternatives that are safer for both your pets and the environment. It's actually super easy to clean your home with natural based products that are also common household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. For my top natural cleaning hacks, click HERE.
Opt for natural air fresheners, such as essential oil diffusers or homemade room sprays made with pet-safe essential oils. These alternatives can provide a pleasant aroma without the harmful chemicals found in synthetic fragrances. For an in depth article on replacing artificial air fresheners with essential oils, click HERE.
Keep in mind tho, that not all essential oils are created equally either. Quality is a number one safety factor in using essential oils safely in your home. The same trade secret loopholes and lack of disclosure mentioned previously, means that there is significant variation in the quality and purity of essential oils on the market, with some products containing synthetic additives, fillers, or contaminants that may pose risks to you and your pet's health.
Therefore, it's critical for you to research and choose reputable brands that prioritize transparency, quality control, and product purity. Look for companies that provide detailed information about their sourcing and production processes, own their farms, conduct third-party testing for purity and potency, and adhere to industry standards and best practices.
I invite you to check out the essential oil company that I've vetted, Young Living™ Essential Oils. Founded over 25 years ago, Young Living™ is a pioneer in the essential oil industry, known for its unwavering commitment to quality, purity, and sustainability. Unlike many other essential oil brands, Young Living™ controls every step of the production process, from Seed To Seal™.
They carefully select the finest botanicals from their own farms and trusted partner growers around the world, ensuring that each plant is grown in optimal conditions and harvested at the peak of its potency. Young Living™ is also committed to transparency, with an open door policy allowing you to visit the farms firsthand! I've had the pleasure of visiting several farms worldwide and helping to plant and harvest as well. Because of this, I have no doubt that I am only using a 100% pure and premium essential oil safe for me and my pets!
Join me in experiencing the benefits of Young Living™ Essential Oils and discover the difference that quality essential oils can make in you and your pet's life. Please note that the following link is an affiliate link, which means I earn a commission at no cost to you.
By ordering through my link, you'll not only receive access to Young Living's™ premium essential oils and oil-infused products, but you'll also be supporting my efforts to provide valuable information and resources to fellow pet owners like yourself. Join me by clicking HERE!
Your home is your oasis and you and your pets deserve a safe and healthy environment where you both can thrive. Synthetic fragrances may make our homes smell nice, but they can have serious consequences for us, our animals, and the environment. By educating yourself about the risks and taking proactive steps, you can create a healthy, thriving home. After all, our health and happiness are worth far more than any artificial scent.
Relaxing Your Equine Companion: The Wonders of Roman Chamomile
One of my horses, Rolex, is currently on stall rest. He's handling it like a champ, but there's one thing that's caught my attention – his newfound fascination with Roman Chamomile essential oil. I've always loved the aroma of this essential oil and happened to have it in my pocket due to a particular stressful day (Roman Chamomile is renowned for its ability to alleviate feelings of tension). When I got to the barn, I decided to see how he liked it. He definitely perked up, smelled the bottle for a long time, then proceeded to try and eat the bottle-lol. There was definitely a noticeable change in his demeanor, as he can carry some worry even tho he's mostly calm. It's since become a part of our daily routine, a small but significant moment of connection in his stall that really seems to take the edge off. Lets dive in to Roman chamomile and what it can do for your horse!
Understanding Roman Chamomile:
Roman Chamomile, scientifically known as Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis nobilis, is a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It's native to Western Europe and North Africa, where it thrives in sunny, well-drained soils, boasting delicate, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers, and emitting a distinct apple-like aroma.
Treasured for centuries for its wellness properties, particularly its calming effects, Roman Chamomile's essential oil contains bioactive compounds like chamazulene, bisabolol, and apigenin, contributing to its soothing and wellness qualities.
Historically it was valued for its skin-soothing properties and its ability to promote relaxation and ease digestive discomfort. In modern times, Roman Chamomile remains prized for its versatility in aromatherapy, skincare, and digestive support, offering a natural remedy for overall well-being. Chamomile tea has become a staple in households as a bedtime relaxing beverage!
The Roman Connection:
The inclusion of "Roman" in the name "Roman Chamomile" carries with it a blend of historical significance and anecdotal charm. While there's a popular anecdote suggesting that the plant was named after a botanist who discovered it growing near the Roman Coliseum, the veracity of this claim remains uncertain. Instead, it's more likely that the association with Rome stems from the plant's historical usage by ancient Romans, who valued chamomile for its medicinal and aromatic properties.
The name "Roman Chamomile" may have been chosen to distinguish it from other chamomile species and to emphasize its esteemed status within Roman culture. Today, two popular types of chamomile essential oil used are Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile. While Roman Chamomile is celebrated for its gentle, apple-like aroma and calming properties, German Chamomile is known for its deep blue color. While I like to use use both with horses and dogs, Rolex's interest has Roman chamomile at the top of my list these days.
Using Roman Chamomile with Your Horse:
To utilize Roman Chamomile for relaxation with your horse:
- Offer the bottle for them to smell freely and as often as they'd like.
- Apply a drop to your palms, rub them together, and allow your horse to smell your hands, repeating as desired.
- Rub any residue on your horse's poll or the back of your neck for enhanced relaxation, recognizing that you are half the partnership with your horse and if you are calm and relaxed, you help them to be calm and relaxed.
Practical Applications:
Creating a spritzer can also be a great way to use the essential oil to promote calmness, such as before the farrier's visit or during trailering. Make a spritzer and spray the area your horse will be in before you bring the horse to the area. For example the grooming stall or horse trailer. If using chamomile for skin benefits, simply spritz the desired area. For a step by step guide to making a spray with some of my favorite recipes, click HERE.
Making a roller bottle is another easy and fun way to use your essential oils with your horse. You can then roll the oil or blend on your pulse points wearing it as a perfume, you then become a walking diffuser for your horse. By the way, this is one of the easiest ways to get started using essential oils with your horse, to learn more-go HERE.
For my guide to making roll on, click HERE. This method also works well for supporting your horse's digestive system by applying topically to their stomach or rubbing on your hands and massaging their abdomen.
Recipes for Relaxation:
Here are some of my favorite recipes for relaxation:
Roman Chamomile Massage Blend:
- 10 drops Roman Chamomile
- 5 drops Lavender
- 5 drops Frankincense
- 2 oz carrier oil (Like fractionated coconut oil, which is my fave. It's light, non greasy and absorbs quickly!)
Relaxation Spray:
- 15 drops Roman Chamomile
- 10 drops Cedarwood
- 5 drops Vetiver
- 2 oz spray bottle
- distilled water and vodka ( or witch hazel)
Add the essential oils to the spray bottle then fill up halfway with vodka and halfway with water. The vodka helps mix the essential oil with water. Swap the vodka out for alcohol free witch hazel if you are using it on wounds. Remember to shake well each time you spray.
Relaxer Roller:
- 10 drops Roman Chamomile
- 5 drops Cedarwood
- 5 drops frankincense
- 10 ml roller bottle
- carrier oil (Like fractionated coconut oil, which is my fave. It's light, non greasy and absorbs quickly!)
By the way frankincense is another powerhouse essential oil I use all the time with my horses. It's a fabulous addition to blends you are using to calm or balance emotions. To read more about using frankincense with your horses, click HERE.
Nurturing Your Bond
With Roman Chamomile by your side, every moment with your equine companion can become an opportunity for relaxation and deeper connection. Incorporating Roman Chamomile into a horse care routine can yield numerous benefits for equine health and well-being. From aromatherapy to topical application, its gentle yet potent properties offer a natural solution for promoting relaxation, comfort, and overall wellness in horses. So, whether it’s a soothing massage or a calming aroma, let the power of nature nurture your horse's well-being and enrich your bond together.
Quality Matters:
When it comes to essential oils, quality matters. Not all oils are created equal, and it's crucial to choose trusted suppliers who prioritize purity and authenticity. A recent study, published in the Journal of Essential Oil Research (JEOR), found that over 75% of lavender oils tested were adulterated, underscoring the importance of sourcing from reputable companies.
One such company I trust is Young Living™, renowned for their Seed to Seal® commitment. Their rigorous quality control measures ensure that every bottle of essential oil meets the highest standards of purity and potency. If you're looking for premium quality oil you can trust, safe for your four legged family, I invite you to explore Young Living's™ offerings. Click HERE to learn more and grab a bottle of Roman chamomile for your horse!
(Please note that the provided link is an affiliate link, and I may earn a small commission from your order at no additional cost to you. Your support is greatly appreciated as it helps support my small business!)
Spring is in the air, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to refresh our homes and create a clean, inviting space for both ourselves and our dogs. As pet owners, it's essential to consider the products we use during our spring cleaning routine, as many conventional cleaners can contain harmful chemicals that may negatively impact our pets' health. That's where products like vinegar and essential oils come in handy, offering a toxin free and pet-friendly alternative to traditional cleaning products. Plus you'll benefit from some aromatherapy too!
Also, let me share a little secret with you: you don't necessarily need to use essential oils in your cleaning routine, you can invest in a few products and get cleaning with out them, but why not? Essential oils not only add a delightful aroma to your cleaners, but many of them have also been studied for their germ-fighting capabilities. So, why not boost your cleaning with some extra power and a pleasant scent? Whether you're using lemon for its fresh fragrance and natural wellness properties or tea tree oil as its been studied for antifungal and antiviral qualities, essential oils can elevate your cleaning experience. So go ahead, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to your homemade cleaners and enjoy the benefits of a fresh, clean home with a touch of aromatherapy.
My top natural cleaning substitutes include baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, Castile soap, and of course, essential oils-lol!
-Baking soda, with its gentle abrasive properties, is commonly used for scrubbing surfaces and absorbing odors.
-Vinegar is prized for its acidic nature, which makes it effective at cutting through grease and disinfecting surfaces.
-Hydrogen peroxide is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a powerful disinfectant.
-Castile soap, made from vegetable oils, is a versatile cleaner that is gentle yet effective on a variety of surfaces, as well as your hands.
-Essential oils add a fabulous aroma and many have been studied for properties that go hand in hand with cleaning. This review on Pubmed.org titled 'Essential Oils as Antimicrobial Agents-Myth or Real Alternative?' states that "According to available papers and patents, EOs seem to be a potential alternative to synthetic compounds".
These natural alternatives are popular choices for eco-conscious individuals seeking safer and more sustainable cleaning solutions.
Hands down, the number one thing to do when it comes to cleaning is to start with the basics: soap and water. It's simple, effective, and readily available. Many times, we underestimate the power of this duo. Interestingly, many labels on harsh chemical cleaners advise you to clean the surface first with soap and water, which effectively removes organic matter. This step alone can significantly improve the efficacy of any cleaner that follows.
Ah, let's talk about Castile soap, my absolute favorite when it comes to soap. Originating from the Castile region of Spain, this gentle soap has been prized for centuries for its purity and versatility. What sets Castile soap apart is its simple yet effective formula, typically made from 100% plant-based oils like olive oil or hemp oil.
Unlike many commercial soaps that contain harsh detergents, synthetic additives, and artificial fragrance, Castile soap is incredibly gentle on the skin, making it suitable for even the most sensitive individuals. Its moisturizing properties leave your hands feeling soft and nourished, without any drying or irritation. Plus, it's biodegradable and environmentally friendly, making it a sustainable choice for both your home and the planet.
Whether used for handwashing, body cleansing, or household cleaning, Castile soap is a true multitasker that's as gentle as it is effective. Once you try it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it!
However, if you do feel the need for something extra, my next choice is vinegar. Vinegar is a versatile, natural cleaner that can tackle a variety of surfaces and stains with ease, making it a staple in my cleaning arsenal. To make your own vinegar cleaner, simply mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Super easy-right?!
Of course, I would then also add one of my favorite essential oils, such as tea tree oil or lemon oil, for added cleaning properties and a pleasant scent. Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients, and voila! You have a homemade cleaner that's safe, effective, and eco-friendly. Use it to clean surfaces throughout your home, from kitchen countertops to bathroom sinks. With this simple recipe, you can clean your home with confidence, knowing that you're using a natural cleaner that's tough on germs but gentle on the environment and safe for you and your pets!
However, there are a few surfaces where vinegar should be avoided. It's not recommended for use on natural stone countertops like granite or marble, as the acidity can dull or etch the surface. Plain ol' soap and water is fine for those surfaces.
Avoid using vinegar on unsealed grout, as its acidic nature can weaken and deteriorate the grout over time. Instead, opt for a gentle yet effective solution like a baking soda paste. Simply mix baking soda and water until a paste forms, then apply it to the grout lines for safe and efficient cleaning.
Additionally, vinegar should not be used on electronic screens such as TVs or smartphones, as it can damage protective coatings. Simply use a damp microfiber cloth instead.
Say goodbye to harsh chemical bleach and hello to a safer, more eco-friendly alternative. Enter hydrogen peroxide, a powerful yet gentle bleach alternative that's perfect for brightening whites, disinfecting surfaces, and tackling tough stains. Unlike traditional bleach, hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, leaving behind no harmful residues. It's particularly effective for removing stains from clothing, whitening grout, and disinfecting kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Plus, it's safe to use around pets and won't harm the environment.
If I had to choose just one product to eliminate from my cleaning routine, it would undoubtedly be bleach. I always wondered why I got a headache when I would use bleach. Then I noticed my dogs would avoid the area like the plague. Then I started reading my labels, and, well- its scary stuff on the back of your bleach bottle! Not only is bleach harmful to our health and the environment, but its harsh chemicals can also cause respiratory issues and skin irritation. Moreover, bleach releases toxic fumes, posing a serious risk to indoor air quality. It's easy to opt for a safer and more eco-friendly alternative like hydrogen peroxide.
I love creating my own bleach alternative recipe using hydrogen peroxide and the uplifting scent of lemon essential oil. It's simple yet effective, providing a safe and natural way to disinfect surfaces. To make this recipe, I mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle. Then, for an extra boost of power and a delightful fragrance, I add 20 drops of lemon essential oil for every 2 cups of the solution.
Before we dive into my favorite essential oils for cleaning, let's have a chat about the quality of essential oils. It's true, not all essential oils are created equal. A recent study published in the Journal of Essential Oil Research (JEOR) sheds light on this issue. The study analyzed 41 authentic lavender essential oil samples from trusted producers and research partners worldwide. Comparing these findings to 12 commercially available samples, the study made a startling discovery: 9 out of 12 (75 percent) of the commercially available samples were adulterated.
This means they showed signs of potential dilution or the addition of another oil as a substitute. Now, our goal here is to clean our homes with safe and natural products, right? We're aiming to rid our living spaces of harmful chemicals, not add more to the mix. That's why choosing a high-quality and pure essential oil is absolutely paramount.
Sure, it might cost a bit more upfront, but here's the kicker: these oils are super concentrated plant extracts, so a little goes a long way. Investing in quality ensures that you're getting the real deal and maximizing the benefits of these powerful natural extracts. It's all about quality over quantity when it comes to using essential oils.
My Favorite Essential Oils for Spring Cleaning
1. Lemon Essential Oil: Lemon oil is well known as a powerful ingredient for cleaning. Lemon essential oil has even been studied for cleaning! Plus, its fresh citrus scent helps to uplift the mood and leave your home smelling clean and fresh.
2. Tea Tree Essential Oil: Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, has been studied as a potent antiseptic and antifungal agent, making it an excellent choice for cleaning surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens. Tea tree oil has been mentioned in many articles about helping to combat mold, mildew, and bacteria, making it a versatile choice for household cleaning.
3. Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender oil not only has a calming and relaxing aroma, perfect for a multiple dog household, but it also has been studied for its antifungal properties. It's great for freshening up laundry, deodorizing carpets, and adding a pleasant and relaxing scent to homemade cleaning products.
4. Pine Essential Oil: Pine oil has a fresh, forest-like aroma and is synonymous with the aroma of cleaning (think Pine-Sol™). It has also been studied for its antimicrobial and anti fungal properties, making it an excellent choice for adding to DIY cleaning products and freshening up the air in your home.
5. Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Eucalyptus oil is known for its fresh, clean aroma and its ability to help support breathing and purify the air, making it another ideal choice for DIY cleaning products and freshening up your home.
Let's take charge of our health and environment by gradually replacing conventional products with safer, natural alternatives. Making small adjustments to our daily cleaning routine allows us to reduce exposure to harmful toxins and prioritize overall well-being. It's a simple yet impactful way to safeguard our health and the planet. Safety is key, especially in homes with pets. Many commercial cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that pose risks to both humans and animals. In contrast, safer products like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils can provide a gentle yet potent solution for cleaning without endangering us or our fur kids!
By the way, remember the importance of quality when it comes to essential oils? I invite you to check out my go-to source for essential oils, Young Living™. With their Seed to Seal™ guarantee, there's no chance of adulteration here. I've also curated a bundle of these essential oils, making it easy for you to revamp your cleaning routine with natural ingredients. And if you're not one for DIY projects, be sure to check out Thieves™ Cleaner . It's incredibly concentrated, yielding up to twenty nine 16 oz. cleaning bottles from just one concentrate, actually making it cheaper than what you'll find in the store—wow! Click HERE to learn more and start your journey to a healthier home.
