The Best Essential Oils For A Cleaner Home

Despite being cherished for their aromatic properties and therapeutic benefits, essential oils are also known to be incredibly effective in household cleaning. Did you know certain oils can get rid of pests and are often used as a replacement for chemical-laden products due to their natural and eco-friendly properties? Using essential oils can not only elevate the cleanliness of your space but also leave your home smelling good! We bring to you the top 5 essential oils that may be used for home cleaning.

an image of lemons

1. Lemon Essential Oil

For the unbeknownst, lemon essential oil is a powerhouse for cleaning due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Its citrusy fresh scent is uplifting, and not only deodorizes but also cuts through grease and grime with ease. 

Uses:

  • All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 10-15 drops of lemon essential oil with one cup of water and one cup of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Use this solution for cleaning countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.
  • Stain Remover: Apply a few drops of lemon oil to a cloth, and use it to remove stubborn stains from surfaces and fabrics.
image of a bunch of plants and flowers

2. Tea Tree Essential Oil

A widely known oil, the tea tree oil is perfect for its potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Making it a versatile addition to your cleaning arsenal. 

Uses:

  • Mold and Mildew Remover: Combine 10 drops of tea tree oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on areas affected by mold and mildew, let it sit, and then wipe it clean.
  • Disinfectant: Add 10-15 drops of tea tree oil to your cleaning solutions to enhance their disinfecting power, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
image of a lavender field

3. Lavender Essential Oil

Not only known for its calming properties, lavender oil is also known for its ability to keep germs away. It’s also a great choice for a fresh-smelling, clean home! 

Uses:

  • Fabric Freshener: Mix 10-15 drops of lavender oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle. Use it to spray on bedding, curtains, and upholstery to freshen them up.
  • Floor Cleaner: Add a few drops of lavender oil to your mop water to leave your floors clean and smelling delightful.
image of eucalyptus plant

4. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

The leaves the koala bears indulge in also serve a great purpose to us when it comes to keeping a clean home. Although its scent may get some getting used to at first, it’s usually the first choice to use when it comes to keeping bacteria at bay. 

Uses:

  • Air Freshener: Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with water in a spray bottle, and use it to spray around the home to freshen the air.
  • Bathroom Cleaner: Combine 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with one cup of white vinegar and one cup of water in a spray bottle, and use it to clean and disinfect bathroom surfaces.
image of peppermint oil

5. Peppermint Essential Oil

Saving the last for best is peppermint oil and its combination of minty-sweet scent. The versatile scent not only refreshes the mind to keep you fresh, but it’s also an excellent choice for a cleaner and pest-free home. 

Uses:

  • Surface Cleaner: Mix around 10 drops of peppermint oil with a cup of water and a cup of vinegar in a spray bottle. Use it to clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
  • Pest Repellent: Peppermint oil can deter ants, cockroaches and other pests. Add a few drops to cotton balls and place them in areas where pests are a problem.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve not incorporated essential oils into your cleaning routine, take this as your sign to do it today! Not only are they a natural and effective way to maintain a cleaner home, they leave it smelling good too. Also, many cleaning services in Singapore use eco-friendly products including essential oils in their routines.