Homemade cleaners have been around for centuries. It wasn’t until the 20th century that we began purchasing household cleaners from the store. During the 17th and 18th centuries, vinegar-based cleaners were all the rage, and Sarah Munro (my PhD historian, is the heroine in book 2 of the Deadly Force series, ONE DARK WISH), has added the rebooted recipe below to her collection of DIY herbal recipes.
The recipe below is for an all-purpose lightly-scented cleaner. It only uses four ingredients, but the catch is that it needs to infuse for a week before you use it so you’ll need to plan ahead. This recipe uses fresh lemon rinds (for scent and cleaning power) as well as fresh rosemary (for its antifungal and antibacterial properties). It’s perfect for wiping down cabinets, sinks, bathrooms, trash cans, and even glass. But do not use it on granite because the acidity will etch the stone.
Safety Note on DIY Cleaners
Never, ever, ever combine ammonia-based cleaners with chlorine bleach or any products containing bleach (like powdered dishwasher detergent). The chloramine fumes are EXTREMELY dangerous and potentially deadly. So ALWAYS read the labels before mixing any products on your own.
Sarah Munro’s Spring Cleaning Spray
Ingredients:
Directions:
For every 2 cups of vinegar and water, use 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary and the rind of half of a lemon.
Put the rosemary and lemon rind into the bottle. Fill the bottle half way with vinegar and then halfway with water. Leave some space at the top for an air bubble.
If you’re using lemon essential oil, add it now. (5-6 drops per 2 cups of water and vinegar)
Put the lid on the spray bottle, shake well, and set the bottle aside, in a dark cabinet, and allow the liquids and herbs to infuse for a week.
Use like any other cleaner. Spray and wipe!
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT WILD PLANTS, FORAGING, AND MAKING HERBAL REMEDIES:
I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).
It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.
- If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.
- If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.
Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.
Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.
Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.
Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.
I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!
