Kitchen table potions to make spring cleaning feel that little bit more lovely
A good spring clean always makes us feel better. And, while no one is pretending cleaning and chores are anyone’s favourite way to spend their time, having some gorgeous-smelling homemade cleaning products to hand definitely makes the job more enjoyable. These wipes and all-purpose surface cleaner can both be made in an afternoon, ready to help you scrub, polish and shine your way to a freshly scented, sparkling home.
All-Purpose Surface Cleaner
Choose a scent that you really like for kitchen worktops, sinks and other surfaces. Maybe not your bed, though…
You will need:
500ml bottle with a spray nozzle
25ml Castile soap (we used
Dr Bronner’s with a rose scent)
Fill your bottle with tap water and add the soap (be sure to add the soap after the water, otherwise the mixture will become foamy). Attach the nozzle, spray the surface and wipe with a damp cloth.
Reusable Cleaning Wipes
Upcycle old bathroom towels into microfibre cloths. Hey presto! Use-again eco-wipes.
You will need:
125g distilled white vinegar
1 tbsp washing-up liquid
10 drops of essential oil of your choice
6 textile squares (approx
20cm x 20cm)
Glass container or jar with lid
1 In a bowl, stir together 250ml water with the vinegar, washing-up liquid and essential oil, then set aside.
2 Fold your cloths and place in the jar – you can add more cloths if it’s not enough to fill it. Pour the cleaning solution into the container – making sure all the cloths get covered and are damp – then screw on the lid.
Note: The wipes will last for about one week in an airtight container. Once they’ve all been used, you can simply wash them and repeat the process again and again.
These makes are just two of the ideas from our weekend project, ‘A Fresh Start’ by Louise Gorrod. You can find the other natural cleaning makes, including Toilet Fizzes, Oven Cleaner and Bathroom Cleaner in the March issue, which is out now, or you can buy it from our online store.
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