We all love walking into a home which looks and smells clean and fresh. That's why we stand in the grocery aisle and choose a brand we trust and a scent that appeals to us.
We love the idea that our home will smell like a fragrant hillside in Tuscany at dawn! The truth of the matter is that for years the cleaning products we trust to keep our home clean and us healthy, have been filled with toxic fragrance oils and scent enhancers without us knowing. Until recently.
As awareness about synthetic fragrances and the use of phthalates has grown, the need for naturally scented alternatives has become apparent. With this article I hope to shed some light on the benefits of choosing naturally scented cleaning products, provide you with a few DIY options, explore eco-friendly alternatives, and offer tips and links for safe usage.
Understanding Synthetic Fragrances:
Synthetic fragrances, found in many commercial cleaning products, are chemical compounds designed to mimic natural scents. They are created using a complex mixture of undisclosed ingredients, often including harmful chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and benzene. These ingredients can have negative impacts on human health, leading to allergies, respiratory issues, skin irritations, and hormonal disruptions. Additionally, synthetic fragrances are not easily biodegradable and contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution.
Benefits of Naturally Scented Cleaning Products:
Naturally scented cleaning products offer a plethora of advantages over their synthetic counterparts. By opting for non-toxic and chemical-free formulations, you can ensure a safer environment for your family. Natural scents derived from essential oils are free from harmful chemicals and provide a refreshing, clean aroma. They can also have therapeutic benefits, such as promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving mood.
Choosing naturally scented cleaning products can be particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or asthma. Synthetic fragrances are known to trigger respiratory issues and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. By using products scented with natural ingredients, you can minimize the risk of triggering such health problems.
DIY Naturally Scented Cleaning Products:
Harnessing the power of essential oils, you can create your own naturally scented cleaning solutions. Essential oils are concentrated extracts derived from plants, offering a wide range of scents and potential health benefits. Lemon, lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint are popular choices for their pleasant aromas and effective cleaning properties.
To create a simple all-purpose cleaner, combine equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then add 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil. Shake well before each use. Lemon and tea tree oils have natural antibacterial properties that can enhance the cleaning power of this DIY solution.
For a refreshing window spray, combine water, rubbing alcohol, and a few drops of essential oil in a spray bottle. Shake well and use it to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free shine.
Experiment with different essential oil combinations to create personalized scents that cater to your preferences and cleaning needs. It's important to note that essential oils should be used with caution and diluted properly, as their concentrated form can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives:
Greener Me Cleaning Products are naturally scented cleaning products and environmentally friendly. Our products use plant-based ingredients and sustainable practices to create effective cleaning solutions without compromising on fragrance. Greener Me are free from artificial dyes, synthetic fragrances, and harmful chemicals. Our products are “Clean” Cleaners!
Furthermore, consider the packaging when choosing eco-friendly alternatives. Choose brands that use refillable or reusable containers. By making conscious choices, you can significantly reduce your household waste and carbon footprint. For more info on the Plastic vs Glass debate, click here.
Tips for Choosing Natural Cleaning Products:
To ensure you're making a truly eco-friendly choice, it's important to read labels and avoid products that engage in greenwashing. Some products may claim to be natural or green, but still contain hidden synthetic ingredients. Look for certifications and eco-labels that guarantee environmentally safe products, such as the EPA Safer Choice label or certifications from reputable third-party organizations like Eco-cert. EWG also provides lots of information on the safety and biodegradability of ingredients.
Additionally, researching ingredients and fragrance sources will help you make an informed decision. Brands that transparently disclose their ingredient lists and use responsibly sourced essential oils are more likely to provide genuinely natural and sustainable products.
Incorporating Essential Oils in Various Household Cleaners:
Do you want to incorporate your own essential oils into commonly used household cleaners?
For dishwashing soaps and detergents, add a few drops of citrus essential oils, which can help remove grease and leave dishes smelling fresh.
All-purpose cleaners and surface sprays can be enhanced with essential oils like orange, lavender, tea tree, or peppermint, which have natural disinfectant and antibacterial properties. These scents not only create a pleasant atmosphere but also contribute to a healthier living space.
When doing laundry, rely on laundry detergents and fabric softeners scented with natural extracts and avoid essential oils. These products can leave your clothes smelling clean and fresh without the use of synthetic fragrances.
It’s important to note that essential oils are, well, oils. You may find that these oils don’t disperse in your soap product. This is because you need a “solubilizer” to disperse the oil throughout the product. Also, it is recommended that you check the recommended dermal limits of the essential oil you have chosen, as you will no doubt get your hands wet! To stay safe, always use less than 1% of essential oils per product weight. (eg. 5g essential oil per 500g grams product). For more information on how to use essential oils safely, click here.
Safe Usage and Storage of Natural Cleaning Products:
While natural cleaning products are generally safer than their synthetic counterparts, it's essential to follow dilution and mixing guidelines provided by the manufacturers. Essential oils are potent and should be used sparingly. Always remember to keep cleaning products out of reach from children and pets, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Conclusion:
Incorporating naturally scented cleaning products into your home cleaning routine is a simple yet powerful step towards creating a healthier and cleaner living environment. By embracing sustainable practices and using eco-friendly alternatives, we can protect our health and the planet for generations to come. Whether you choose to make your own DIY cleaning solutions or purchase our Greener Me Cleaning Products, the benefits of naturally scented cleaning products extend beyond just cleanliness—we can enjoy a fresh, naturally fragrant home while promoting a healthier future.
Comments