"Switched from commercial disinfectant spray to homemade vodka cleaner for germ killing - results left me astonished by the gleaming surfaces"
In the quest for a cleaner and greener home, a DIY vodka cleaning spray has emerged as an effective and eco-friendly alternative to commercial cleaners. The alcohol content in vodka offers disinfecting properties, making it a potent weapon against germs and bacteria.
This homemade solution, which can be used for cleaning surfaces in both the kitchen and bathroom, is particularly appealing for those who are sensitive to artificial scents or have pets. Unlike many store-bought cleaners, vodka has a neutral smell that fades as it dries, providing a refreshing and scent-free environment.
Basic Benefits
The DIY vodka cleaning spray offers several advantages. It acts as a natural disinfectant, helping surfaces dry quickly due to alcohol’s fast evaporation. It can also freshen scents when combined with essential oils. Moreover, it is generally safer and less harsh than some commercial cleaners.
Making Your Own DIY Vodka Cleaning Spray
Creating your own DIY vodka cleaning spray is a straightforward process. Here's a simple recipe:
- Pour vodka (typically 1 ounce to 1/2 cup, depending on bottle size) into a measuring cup or container.
- Add essential oils for fragrance and antimicrobial properties (e.g., 15 drops or about 1.5 tablespoons).
- Mix in distilled water (e.g., about 3 ounces or 1/3 cup) to dilute the mixture.
- Stir well and pour into a spray bottle (glass preferred for storage).
- Shake before each use.
- Spray on household surfaces to disinfect and clean; wipe if necessary.
For example, a linen or surface spray can be made with 1 ounce vodka, 15 drops of essential oil (such as lavender, frankincense, or chamomile), and 3 ounces distilled water. Store this in a 4-ounce spray bottle.
For a larger 8-ounce spray bottle, you might use 1/2 cup vodka, 1.5 tablespoons essential oils, and 1/3 cup water.
Additional Tips
- To avoid irritation, it's best to avoid using perfume instead of linen sprays.
- The spray is water-based, so it's best used within 2 weeks to 3 months; if the scent smells off, discard and remake.
- Vodka alone disinfects, but combining it with other ingredients like castile soap or specific essential oils may enhance cleaning and antimicrobial effects.
- If you have pets, practice caution when using citrus oils as they can be irritating to cats and dogs.
- Glass amber spray bottles with UV-protection are ideal for making homemade cleaning solutions, as they prevent ingredients from degrading.
The DIY vodka cleaning spray can be used on countertops, linens, towels, and other surfaces, but test on a small area first to ensure no damage occurs to delicate surfaces. It is particularly useful for disinfecting high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches.
When cleaning glass and mirrors, use a higher vodka concentration (two parts vodka to one part water) to avoid streaks. Wipe with a microfiber cloth for best results.
Alternative Natural Cleaning Solutions
Cleaning with baking soda is another multi-tasking natural solution to try around the house, as it is one of nature's best deodorizers. For a fresh scent cleaner, you can add lemon juice or essential oil to the DIY vodka cleaner.
The DIY vodka cleaning spray can be customized with natural ingredients like lemon or essential oils to suit your preferences. It is ideal for cleaning the kitchen naturally, removing common stains from kitchen countertops, cleaning the bathroom, and dealing with high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches.
If you're looking for other natural cleaning options, consider the MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner in Lavender (available at Amazon) or the Method All-Purpose Cleaner in Pink Grapefruit (available at Walmart).
By using this DIY cleaner, you can help break up with toxic disinfectants, contributing to a healthier and more eco-friendly home.
This homemade DIY vodka cleaning spray can be used to maintain a fresh and clean home-and-garden lifestyle, as it's effective for disinfecting surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom, and even on linens and towels. Customizing the DIY vodka cleaner with essential oils not only adds a pleasant fragrance but also provides additional antimicrobial properties, making it a versatile choice for various home cleaning needs.
