The invigorating aroma of fresh lemons wafting through the air is a fabulous way to kick off the annual ritual of spring cleaning. Following are a couple of ways to have your home looking and smelling fresh and new. Happy spring!
Whether used as part of a thorough spring cleaning, or just as a quick spritz to wipe down counters, tabletops, etc., this fragrant cleaner makes it seem as though you’ve been scrubbing and cleaning all day.
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup rubbing alcohol
(70% isopropyl alcohol)
1 teaspoon safflower oil
1 teaspoon lemon essential oil
4 drops lemon-scented dish liquid, such as Joy
8-ounce spray bottle
In a measuring cup, combine water, alcohol, safflower oil, lemon oil, and dish liquid; whisk until well blended. Pour into spray bottle; shake to blend. Spray in an inconspicuous spot to be sure it’s safe on the surface. Use on areas such as countertops, tabletops, etc.; wipe clean with a paper towel or cloth. Avoid using on glass. Shake well before each use. Makes about 1 cup cleaner.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Ingredient Substitution: Any dish liquid may be used in place of Joy.
Infused oil and essential oil are not the same, as there are different processes to create each one. Lemon infused oil is more practical in some applications, such as the recipe for Lemon Furniture Polish, and sometimes essential oil is preferred for its more aromatic qualities, such as the recipe for Harried’s Lemon House Cleaner. You can get lemon essential oil at pharmacies and health and nutrition stores like GNC.