Introduction
As I aim to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle, I’ve been exploring different ways to clean my home using natural ingredients and methods. Chemical cleaners can not only be harsh on the environment, but also irritating for sensitive skin. I was pleased to discover there are many effective cleaning solutions I can make using just sunlight, plants, and other natural items typically found in the pantry. In this article, I will share the best natural cleaning hacks I’ve tried so far that use the power of sunlight and common plants to get surfaces sparkling clean without toxic chemicals.
Using Sunlight as a Disinfectant
One of the easiest natural cleaning solutions is to harness the germ-killing power of sunlight. UV rays in sunlight act as a natural disinfectant that can sanitize surfaces and fabrics. Here are some clever ways to leverage sunlight for cleaning:
Killing Germs on Household Surfaces
Hard surfaces like countertops, sinks, and tables can be disinfected using sunlight. I simply place the items I want to clean outside in direct sunlight for at least an hour. The UV radiation kills bacteria, viruses, mold and dust mites. For an even deeper clean, you can wipe the surface down with a damp microfiber cloth after sun exposure.
Whitening Whites with Sunlight
The bleaching properties of sunlight can be used to naturally whiten and brighten clothes and linens. I fill a basin or tub with cool water, add laundry detergent and let my white linens, towels, and clothes soak up sunlight for a few hours before washing as normal. This trick really helps restore dingy fabrics to their original bright white color.
Freshening Smelly Upholstery and Fabrics
Leaving household fabrics and upholstered items outside in the sunshine helps freshen and deodorize them. I periodically put my couch cushions, rugs, pillows, and pet beds outside on sunny days. The fresh outdoor air and UV rays help eliminate odors from fabric fibers. Rotating items ensures they evenly get sun exposure.
Using Plants as Natural Cleaners
Many common plants contain powerful cleansing and disinfecting compounds that can be harnessed to make effective natural cleaners. Here are some of my favorite ways to use plants for eco-friendly cleaning:
Vinegar Weed Cleaner
Vinegar mixed with boiled weeds like dandelion, chamomile, and nettle makes an excellent all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant spray. To make it, I simply boil a large handful of weeds in water for 30 minutes. After strained and cooled, I mix the brown weed tea with equal parts white vinegar in a spray bottle. The acetic acid in vinegar and cleansing phytochemicals in weeds cut through grease and kill bacteria. I use this cleaner for counters, appliances, windows, mirrors, and floors.
Lemon and Salt Scrub
For a natural scouring scrub, I mix salt with lemon juice squeezed from fresh lemons from my tree. The abrasive salt lifts dirt, while lemon juice cuts through grease and grime and leaves a streak-free shine. This works great for cleaning sinks, showers, stoves, and tiled surfaces. The fresh lemon scent also naturally deodorizes.
Baking Soda and Essential Oils Cleaner
As a gentle abrasive, baking soda cleans well when mixed with water. For a boost of antimicrobial power and scent, I add antibacterial essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or lemon. This makes an effective all-purpose cleaner and deodorizer for most surfaces in my home. The baking soda also helps scour soap scum off tiles.
Conclusion
Harnessing the natural cleaning powers of sunlight and plants has enabled me to avoid toxic chemicals when cleaning my home. Proper sun exposure kills germs on surfaces and fabrics, while vinegars, citrus fruits, weeds, and antimicrobial essential oils from plants make excellent eco-friendly cleaners. With these effective green cleaning methods, I can reduce my environmental impact and know exactly what I’m using to clean my home. Give these simple natural cleaning hacks a try for a healthier home!
