Keeping my home clean and sanitized is very important to me, especially in the age of COVID-19. I like to use natural cleaning solutions as much as possible to avoid harsh chemicals. In this article, I will share everything I’ve learned about sanitizing home surfaces naturally.
Why Sanitize Surfaces
Sanitizing surfaces in my home helps kill germs, bacteria, viruses, and other microbes that can make my family sick. Here are some key reasons I make sure to regularly sanitize:
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Prevent the spread of illnesses – Sanitizing kills viruses like the flu, cold viruses, strep, COVID-19, and more to prevent spreading sickness.
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Remove allergens – Sanitizing can help remove pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and other allergens that trigger allergies and asthma.
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Eliminate odors and stains – Sanitizing removes odors, stains, and sticky messes that can build up on surfaces over time.
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Improve overall cleanliness – Frequent sanitizing keeps all high-touch surfaces clean for a healthier home environment.
Natural Sanitizing Ingredients
There are several plant-based ingredients I rely on to naturally sanitize my home. Here are my top choices:
White Vinegar
White vinegar is a versatile sanitizing solution. It kills 99% of bacteria, 82% of mold, and 80% of germs and viruses. I mix equal parts vinegar and water to make an effective all-purpose cleaner.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant. It kills germs and bacteria and also neutralizes odors. I squeeze fresh lemons to make lemon sanitizing spray.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial essential oil. I add a few drops to vinegar or water to boost cleaning power.
Hydrogen Peroxide
As a strong oxidizing agent, hydrogen peroxide kills germs by destroying their cell walls. I use it undiluted on tough messes.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that also has antifungal and odor-fighting properties. I sprinkle it on surfaces before scrubbing.
Effective Sanitizing Techniques
To maximize the sanitizing power of natural cleaners, I use these techniques:
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Allow solutions to sit and dwell for 5-10 minutes before wiping to give ingredients time to work
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Scrub surfaces with a microfiber cloth to lift up and remove germs
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Work my way from top to bottom when cleaning rooms to avoid spreading dirt
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Dry surfaces thoroughly after sanitizing since moisture breeds microbes
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Ventilate rooms well when using strong ingredients like vinegar
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Sanitize hands & cleaning tools after cleaning contaminated areas
What to Sanitize
I make sure to regularly sanitize these high-touch surfaces and items around my home:
Kitchen
- Countertops
- Handles and knobs on cabinets, drawers, appliances
- Sink and faucet handles
- Kitchen table and chairs
- Pots, pans, dishes, utensils
Bathrooms
- Toilet seat, handle, rim
- Sink and faucet handles
- Shower/tub and fixtures
- Doorknobs and light switches
Common Areas
- Doorknobs and handles
- Light switches and controls
- Railings on stairs
- TV remotes and game controllers
- Phones, tablets, keyboards
Kids’ Items
- Toys
- High chairs and booster seats
- Playmats and stuffed animals
- Changing pad and diaper pail
Regularly sanitizing these high-touch spots helps protect my family’s health.
Natural Sanitizing Recipes
Here are some of my go-to recipes for natural sanitizing solutions:
All-Purpose Vinegar Cleaner
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 5-10 drops essential oil (optional for scent)
Mix ingredients in a spray bottle. Spray surface generously and let sit 5 minutes before wiping clean with a microfiber cloth.
Disinfecting Hydrogen Peroxide Spray
- 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide
- 1/2 cup water
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and use on surfaces. Rinse food surfaces after.
Antibacterial Tea Tree Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 10 drops tea tree oil
Add all ingredients to a glass spray bottle. Shake before each use.
Scouring Baking Soda Paste
- 3 parts baking soda
- 1 part water
Mix to form a spreadable paste. Apply paste and let sit before scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing.
Tips for Maintaining a Sanitary Home
Here are my top tips for keeping a consistently sanitized home:
- Establish a cleaning routine and stick to it
- Disinfect properly – read product labels and allow proper contact times
- Target high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, remotes
- Wash linens, towels, and clothes frequently in hot water
- Take shoes off when entering to avoid tracking in germs
- Wash hands frequently, especially after cleaning or being out
- Sanitize cleaning tools like rags, dusters, and mop heads
By using natural ingredients and consistent sanitizing habits, I keep my home clean and help protect my family’s health. With some simple recipes and targeted techniques, you can sanitizie your home surfaces naturally too.
