Spring is officially on it’s way, even though it’s been freezing – literally! We now hopefully get to see bluer skies, more daffodils and the promise of lighter days and the warmth of sunshine! After hibernation and snuggling down of winter, spring is the perfect time for renewal and to make some healthier choices that you’ll be grateful for come summer!
As the seasons shift and the vibrant energy of spring fills the air, it’s the perfect time to embrace natural remedies for cleaning and refreshing both our homes and personal care routines.
Cleanse
Spring sunshine on a crisp cold day is the perfect time for hanging out duvets and pillows on the line to kill off any bugs.
Go natural to give your home a thorough cleaning. You really don’t need a multitude of toxic chemical laden products, just a handful of natural kitchen ingredients will do the job and create sparkle.
Bicarbonate of soda – is brilliant and used mixed in water with a microfiber cloth, it will clean most surfaces. It’s great for soaking up odours too and even works on stains – mix it with a little amount of water to form a paste and it will work on mud, grass and perspiration. Eucalyptus oil is great for all oil stains. Mix it with a little water to form a paste and use it to scrub away grime from sinks, tubs, and tile grout.
Lemons – can be used really effectively to clean a ceramic sink and add a bit of lemon peel to your cutlery container in the dishwasher – it will help shine things up beautifully. Lemons are nature’s cleaning marvels, boasting antimicrobial properties and a fresh citrus scent. Create an all-purpose cleaner by mixing equal parts water and lemon juice in a spray bottle. Use it to clean countertops, glass surfaces, and even sanitize cutting boards.
Vinegar – is great for making a ‘fizzing’ solution with bicarbonate of soda for cleaning the loo – put your rubber gloves on, remove some of the water from the bowl and get scrubbing! Vinegar is also fantastic for lino floors – 50:50 hot water and white vinegar brings it up like new (don’t use on waxed floor as it can remove the wax!). White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer that can banish bacteria and neutralize unpleasant odors. Dilute it with water and use it to clean floors, windows, and stainless steel appliances for a streak-free shine.
DIY Recipes for Cleaning:
Elevate your spring cleaning game with these easy-to-make DIY recipes using common household ingredients:
Lemon & Lavender Fabric Freshener: Combine water, a splash of white vinegar (to aid in drying), and a few drops of lemon and lavender essential oils in a spray bottle. Use it to freshen up curtains, upholstery, and bedding.
Citrus Infused Vinegar: Fill a jar with citrus peels (lemon, lime, or orange) and cover them with white vinegar. Let it sit for a few weeks to infuse, then strain the liquid into a spray bottle. Use this homemade citrus vinegar as a multipurpose cleaner for surfaces throughout your home.
Baking Soda Carpet Refresher: Mix baking soda with a few drops of your favorite essential oil (such as lavender or peppermint) and sprinkle it liberally over carpets. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before vacuuming to eliminate odours and leave your carpets smelling fresh.
Freshen Up Your Personal Care Routine:
Extend the natural spring cleanse to your personal care routine with these organic and chemical-free alternatives:
DIY Lemon Sugar Scrub: Mix together granulated sugar, coconut oil, and a few drops of lemon essential oil to create a luxurious body scrub that exfoliates and moisturizes the skin.
Herbal Hair Rinse: Brew a strong infusion of herbs such as rosemary, chamomile, or lavender, then strain and cool. Use it as a final rinse after shampooing to condition the hair and promote shine.
Coconut Oil Moisturizer: Ditch the chemical-laden lotions and opt for pure coconut oil as a natural moisturizer for both face and body. Its rich, nourishing properties will leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Embrace the beauty of nature and the power of natural ingredients to refresh your home and personal care routine. With these simple yet effective tips, you can create a clean and revitalized environment while minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals.
For more recipes and recommendations for natural products check out www.imperfectlynatural.com and the best selling book Imperfectly Natural Woman
– Janey Lee Grace