Having sensitive skin can make cleaning a real challenge. Many conventional cleaning products contain irritants and chemicals that can cause reactions. The good news is there are natural, greener options to get your home sparkling clean without aggravating your skin.
Why Natural Cleaners are Better for Sensitive Skin
Conventional cleaners often contain ingredients like:
- Fragrance
- Preservatives
- Surfactants
- Artificial colors
- Antibacterial chemicals
These can provoke skin reactions in those with sensitive skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, stinging, and dryness.
Natural cleaners are gentler options. They are made from plant-derived ingredients like:
- Plant oils
- Plant extracts
- Essential oils
- Soapberries
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
These ingredients are less likely to cause irritation. Greener products also avoid harsh chemicals that can harm health and the environment.
Best Natural Ingredients to Look For
Focus on natural cleaners with these soothing ingredients:
Plant Oils
- Coconut oil – Has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Also moisturizes skin.
- Olive oil – Calms inflammation. Also acts as a natural cleaner.
- Jojoba oil – Mimics skin’s natural oils. Calming and moisturizing.
Essential Oils
- Lavender oil – Calming properties soothe skin. Has a pleasant aroma.
- Tea tree oil – Anti-inflammatory. Helps heal rashes and skin irritations.
- Chamomile oil – Anti-inflammatory. Reduces skin irritation and redness.
Other Ingredients
- Apple cider vinegar – Balances skin pH. Contains beneficial acids.
- Baking soda – Acts as a gentle scrub. Soothes itchy skin.
- Castile soap – Made from vegetable oils. Gentle cleanser for skin.
- Borax – Natural mineral good for scrubbing and disinfecting.
Sensitive Skin-Friendly Cleaning Recipes
Here are some easy homemade cleaners that are gentle on sensitive skin:
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1⁄2 cup vinegar
- 1⁄4 cup baking soda
- 10 drops tea tree essential oil
- 4 cups water
Mix ingredients together in a spray bottle. Shake before use. Vinegar disinfects while baking soda scours. Tea tree oil adds antibacterial power.
Scrubbing Cleaner
- 1⁄2 cup baking soda
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 tablespoons Castile soap
- 1⁄2 cup warm water
Combine baking soda and Castile soap. Add water and lavender oil. Scrub onto surfaces with a sponge or brush. Baking soda cleans while lavender soothes skin.
Calming Hand Soap
- 1⁄3 cup Castile soap
- 1⁄3 cup distilled water
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 5 drops chamomile essential oil
Whisk soap and water until combined. Mix in coconut oil and chamomile oil. Pour into a dispenser. The oils moisturize hands while washing.
Tips for Cleaning with Sensitive Skin
- Wear gloves when possible to avoid direct contact with cleaners.
- Rinse skin after cleaning. Wash hands with a gentle, moisturizing soap.
- Ventilate rooms well after cleaning. Open windows or turn on fans.
- Try small amounts of new products first to test for reactions.
- Stick to fragrance-free products or ones with natural essential oils only.
The Takeaway
Choosing natural cleaners is wise for those with easily irritated skin. Greener products often skip harsh chemicals in favor of gentler plant-based ingredients. Oils, essential oils, Castile soap, vinegar and baking soda make excellent additions to sensitive skin-friendly cleaning recipes. With some trial and error, you can find green cleaners that get your home sparkling without inflaming your skin.
