So Mardi Gras is over, Lent begins today, and it’s March. That must mean it is time to start Spring Cleaning. (Please don’t hate me!). While I do purchase some commercial cleaning products, one of my favorite DIY products is this Spring Floor Wash which is an adaptation of floor washes people have been using for centuries. Since this recipe is so versatile, and does not need to be rinsed, Sarah Munro added this recipe to her collection of herbal remedies (Sarah, a PhD historian, is the heroine in book 2 of the Deadly Force series, ONE DARK WISH.)
This recipe uses basic ingredients, but there are a few things to note. First, make sure you use 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol and not 90%. You can use any essential oil you want. I prefer lemon in the kitchen, but any scent will work. Also, so many dish detergents have extra things in them so the original Dawn dish soap is one of the best to use. Don’t use Castile soap as it will leave a residue behind, and this is a non-rinse floor wash. Also, it’s always a good idea to sweep or vacuum your floor first before mopping. It just makes things easier! This wash is so mild you could use it on a daily basis, if necessary.
Sarah Munro’s Spring Floor Wash
Equipment & Ingredients
Directions:
For use with a spray bottle: In a large bowl, stir together all of the ingredients until well blended. Use a funnel to transfer the washing liquid into the spray bottle. To use, spray a 3-foot section of floor and wipe up with a mop. Repeat until the floor is clean. To store, keep the liquid in the spray bottle and store in a cabinet away from heat and flames. Also, keep away from children and pets.
For use with a bucket: This mixture makes 22 fluid ounces, so to use in a bucket you will need to multiply this recipe by 4. (8 cups water, 2 cups vinegar, 1 cup alcohol, 1/2 teaspoon liquid dish soap, and 20 drops of essential lemon oil.) Clean floor with a mop. Once you are done, discard any cleaner remaining in your bucket.
Important Disclaimer: Herbal Remedies, Wild Plants, and Foraging
The information shared in my Romance Herbalist posts is intended for educational, historical, and entertainment purposes only. I am not a physician, licensed herbalist, or other medical professional. Nothing on this website should be considered medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.
Herbs, flowers, spices, and other plants have been used for centuries in cooking, traditional remedies, and folk medicine. However, natural does not always mean safe. Some plants can be toxic, cause allergic reactions, interact with medications, or be unsuitable for certain medical conditions.
Before preparing, consuming, or using any herbal product, please keep the following precautions in mind:
- Medications and medical conditions: Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally, particularly if you take prescription or over-the-counter medications, have an existing medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are preparing something for children.
- Allergies: Research potential allergic reactions and cross-reactivity, especially if you have known allergies to plants, herbs, or spices.
- Plant identification: Never harvest or consume a wild plant unless you can positively identify it and confirm that it is safe for its intended use. Some poisonous plants closely resemble edible or medicinal varieties.
- Harvesting and foraging: Avoid collecting plants from roadsides, chemically treated areas, contaminated soil, or locations where pesticides, herbicides, or other pollutants may be present. Always follow local foraging laws and respect private property.
- Preparation and consumption: Research appropriate preparation methods, potential side effects, and safe quantities before using any plant. Certain plants may be safe in food but dangerous when concentrated or prepared incorrectly.
- Food safety: Use clean equipment, properly stored ingredients, and appropriate food-handling practices when preparing herbal teas, infusions, syrups, or other homemade products.
A note about traditional remedies: References to historical or folkloric uses of plants do not establish that those uses are medically effective or safe. Any discussion of potential health benefits is provided for general information and should not be interpreted as a recommendation to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
By choosing to forage, prepare, or consume any plant or herbal product discussed on this website, you accept responsibility for your own research, decisions, and safety. The author makes no guarantees regarding the safety, effectiveness, or suitability of any plant, recipe, or preparation described.
When in doubt, consult a qualified professional before using any herb or wild plant.
