
DIY Natural Dish Wash with Essential Oils: A Chemical-Free Way to Sparkling Clean Dishes
Switching to natural cleaning products is not just a trend; it's a conscious choice that benefits both your health and the environment. Most commercial dishwashing liquids contain harsh chemicals that can leave residues on your dishes, which in turn can get ingested when you serve food or drink. By making your own chemical-free dish wash, you’re taking control of what comes into contact with your family’s plates, cups, and utensils.
The best part? This homemade dish wash is not only cost-effective but also incredibly simple to make. You can even make it a fun family activity, getting the kids involved in the process. Plus, with the uplifting aromas of essential oils, washing dishes might just become your favorite chore!
Why Go Natural?
- Healthier for you: Chemical residues from commercial dishwashing liquids can make their way into your food. Using a natural alternative helps reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Eco-friendly: Homemade cleaning solutions often come in reusable packaging, reducing plastic waste and harmful chemicals going down the drain.
- Cost-effective: Most natural ingredients like essential oils, baking soda, and Castile soap are affordable and last a long time.
- Fun and engaging: This is a project that the whole family can enjoy, and it’s a great way to teach kids about the importance of sustainability and mindful living.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 teaspoon ground coconut soap
- Coconut soap is a gentle, natural cleanser that effectively cuts through grease while being kind to your skin.
- 1 tablespoon bicarb soda (or washing soda for a deeper clean)
- Bicarb soda is a mild abrasive that’s perfect for scrubbing tough spots, while washing soda offers a stronger option for grease-heavy dishes.
- 1/4 cup unscented liquid Castile soap
- Castile soap is a natural, plant-based soap that is versatile and biodegradable, making it a great base for your dish wash.
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- Hot water helps dissolve the soap flakes and soda, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- 30 drops lemon essential oil
- Lemon oil is known for its natural grease-cutting abilities and fresh, zesty scent.
- 30 drops lavender essential oil
- Lavender has antibacterial properties, and its soothing scent will make dishwashing more pleasant.
- 10 drops rosemary essential oil (optional)
- Rosemary adds a subtle, earthy aroma and offers additional antimicrobial benefits.
- A small funnel
- To make it easier when pouring the mixture from the bowl to the bottle.
- 240ml amber glass bottle with pump dispenser
- The amber glass helps protect the essential oils from sunlight, keeping your dish wash effective for longer.
Method:
- Combine the dry ingredients: Start by mixing the ground coconut soap and baking soda (or washing soda for a deeper clean) in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add the boiling water: Carefully pour the boiling water over the soap flakes and soda, then mix thoroughly with a whisk or fork until everything is dissolved and well combined.
- Incorporate the remaining ingredients: Add the unscented liquid Castile soap and the essential oils—lemon, lavender, and rosemary (if using). Stir everything together, and let the mixture cool.
- Transfer to your bottle: Using a funnel, pour the cooled mixture into your amber glass bottle. Secure the pump top, and you're all set!
How to Use:
Just a pump or two of your homemade natural dish wash is enough for everyday dish cleaning. The combination of essential oils helps lift grease, while the coconut soap and baking soda cut through grime, leaving your dishes spotless without any chemical residue.
Why These Essential Oils?
- Lemon: Known for its powerful grease-fighting properties and fresh, uplifting scent.
- Lavender: A natural antibacterial agent that brings a calming fragrance to your kitchen.
- Rosemary (optional): Known for its antimicrobial properties and earthy aroma, rosemary adds a deeper, herbal fragrance to the dish wash.
Conclusion:
Making your own natural dish wash is an easy and rewarding way to keep harmful chemicals out of your kitchen. Plus, it’s a cost-effective, eco-friendly option that smells amazing thanks to the addition of essential oils. You can customize the recipe by experimenting with different oils or tweaking the ratios to suit your cleaning needs. With this DIY dish wash, you’ll enjoy cleaner dishes and a healthier home. Happy cleaning!
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