I’m always looking for ways to clean my home using natural ingredients that are good for my family and the environment. Using plants like herbs, flowers, and fruit peels allows me to avoid harsh chemicals while still getting my home sparkling clean. Here’s what I’ve learned about harnessing the power of plants for natural cleaning.
Why Use Plants for Cleaning
There are several reasons why using plants for cleaning makes sense:
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Natural ingredients are often safer than chemicals, especially if you have kids or pets in the home. Herbs, flowers, and fruit peels are natural substances that get the job done without toxic fumes or residues.
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Environmentally-friendly. Most plant materials easily biodegrade, unlike many cleaning products which contain plastics and other pollutants. This makes plant-based cleaners better for the planet.
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Cost-effective. Growing your own herbs or repurposing food scraps means you don’t have to buy expensive specialty cleaners. A little goes a long way when using potent plant powers!
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Pleasant smells. Who doesn’t want their home to smell like a flower garden or fresh citrus? Plant materials like herbs, flowers, and fruit impart natural fragrance as you clean.
Powerful Plants for Natural Cleaning
Here are some of my favorite plants to use for green cleaning around the house:
Herbs
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Rosemary – This aromatic herb works well as a disinfectant and deodorizer. It cleans floors and counter tops and removes odors.
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Lavender – With antibacterial and antiviral properties, dried lavender flowers freshen laundry and rugs when sprinkled on before vacuuming.
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Mint – Invigorating mint oil cuts through kitchen grease and grime. It also kills bacteria and removes bad odors.
Flowers
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Calendula – Also called pot marigold, the petals of this pretty flower can be infused as a cleaning solution that cuts grease.
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Chamomile – This daisy-like flower has antiseptic properties. Use chamomile tea to clean carpets, floors and countertops.
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Hibiscus – High in citric acid, the vibrant red hibiscus flower serves as a natural bathroom cleaner. It kills germs and brightens surfaces.
Fruit & Vegetable Peels
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Citrus peels – Lemon, lime, grapefruit and orange peels contain d-limonene, a powerful degreaser and disinfectant.
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Banana peels – Buff water spots and other marks off shiny surfaces like chrome, glass, and jewelry using the inside of banana peels.
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Onion skins – The papery outer skins of onions contain cleaning power. Use to polish copper cookware or wooden furniture.
Making Your Own Natural Cleaning Products
With a simple recipe, you can harness the strength of plants around the home:
Herbal Cleaning Vinegar
Add herbs like rosemary, sage, thyme, or lavender to white vinegar and let steep for 2-3 weeks. Strain and use the infused vinegar as an all-purpose cleaner.
Fruit & Vegetable Peel Degreaser
Peel citrus fruits, onions, or even pineapples. Boil the peels in water for 30 minutes then strain. Use this natural degreaser on counters, stoves, and more.
Flower Power Floor Cleaner
Steep a handful of chamomile or other flowers in hot water for 20 minutes. Combine the flower water with a squirt of liquid castile soap in a bucket and use to mop hard floors.
Tips for Effectively Using Plant-Based Cleaners
To get the best results from natural cleaners, here are my top tips:
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Store in airtight containers and make in small batches for maximum freshness.
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Use microfiber cloths and scrub brushes to help agitate dirt and grime. Let cleaners soak if needed.
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Target problem areas like the bathroom and kitchen for more frequent plant-powered cleansing.
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Spot test natural cleaners first on inconspicuous surfaces like baseboards to check for colorfastness.
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Enhance cleaning by simmering rosemary or citrus peels in water on the stovetop while cleaning.
Conclusion
Replacing conventional cleaning products with plant power is rewarding. Not only are herb-, flower-, and fruit-based cleaners non-toxic, they’re economical and filled with natural fragrance. With a simple collection of plants from the garden or pantry, I’m able to keep my home clean all over using nature’s helper. The results leave me breathing easy knowing I’m not exposing my family to harsh chemicals. What’s your favorite way to use plants for natural cleaning?
