Making an all-natural cleaning spray inspired by Mrs. Meyer's using vinegar is quite simple. Vinegar is a powerful natural cleaning agent that can help cut through grime and deodorize surfaces. Here’s a basic recipe you can follow to create a cleaning spray with roughly 30% vinegar.
All-Natural Cleaning Spray Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar (approximately 30% of the total volume)
- 2 cups water
- Optional: 10-15 drops of essential oil (for fragrance and additional cleaning properties; options include lavender, lemon, tea tree, or eucalyptus)
- 1 tablespoon liquid Castile soap (optional, for extra cleaning power)
Equipment:
- Spray bottle (preferably glass or BPA-free plastic)
- Measuring cups
- Funnel (optional, for easy pouring)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spray Bottle:
- Make sure your spray bottle is clean. If it was previously used, rinse it out thoroughly to avoid any chemical residue.
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Mix the Ingredients:
- Using a funnel (if needed), pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar into the spray bottle.
- Add 2 cups of water to the vinegar in the bottle.
- If you're using essential oils, add 10-15 drops to the mixture.
- If you’re adding liquid Castile soap, do this as well.
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Shake to Combine:
- Secure the sprayer top on the bottle and gently shake to mix the ingredients thoroughly. (Note: If you added Castile soap, shake gently to avoid creating too many bubbles.)
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Label Your Spray:
- It’s a good idea to label your cleaning spray with the date and contents for future reference.
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Usage:
- Spray the mixture on surfaces such as countertops, sinks, bathroom fixtures, and appliances, then wipe down with a clean cloth.
- Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces (like granite or marble), as it can cause damage.
Storage:
- Store your cleaning spray in a cool, dark place. Shake gently before each use, as some separation may occur.
Note:
- This recipe makes about 3 cups (24 ounces) of cleaning spray. You can scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs, maintaining the same ratio of ingredients.
- Always perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of any surface before using the spray to ensure compatibility.
Enjoy your all-natural cleaning spray that is effective and safe for most household surfaces!