When you say that you have an all-natural cleaner, you are typically referring to some concoction that contains vinegar. Although vinegar is an effective cleaning agent for various surfaces in the home, it can make your house smell a certain way, especially if you don’t scent it. If you don’t want your house to smell like pickle brine, the all-purpose cleaner in this recipe is for you.
The major cleaning agent in this homemade cleaner is 70% isopropyl alcohol. That means that 70% is isopropyl alcohol and the other 40% is purified water by volume. 70% isopropyl alcohol kills organisms by denaturing and dissolving their lipids. Studies suggest that this type of alcohol is effective against most bacteria, many viruses, and fungi, but it is not effective against bacterial spores.
There is a good reason you see rubbing alcohol in most first aid kits. It exhibits antiseptic qualities, making it a great natural bactericidal treatment. One evidence review found that the time to 50% relief of postoperative nausea symptoms was faster when smelling rubbing alcohol than traditional anti-nausea medications. Alcohol is also an excellent surface disinfectant, so you can use it for thermometers, scissors, and other surfaces. Read on to learn more about this homemade alcohol cleaner.
70% Isopropyl Alcohol
The higher the concentration of alcohol, the less effective it is at killing germs. You may think that 99% isopropyl alcohol is better at cleaning or sanitizing, but this is not the case. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that using 99% isopropyl alcohol to clean will cause immediate coagulation on the surface or cell wall proteins. That prevents the passage of alcohol into the cell itself, meaning that the alcohol cannot penetrate the virus or bacteria and kill it. The higher concentration almost creates a shield that protects bacteria, which is why the lower concentration is better for cleaning.
Liquid Castile Soap
From floors to ceilings to your body and beyond, Castile soap is an excellent cleaner for almost anything and everything. Traditionally made from 100% pure olive oil, water, and lye, Castile soap is believed to have originated in the Castile region of Spain. It is an eco-friendly soap that contains powerful disinfecting essential oils, including tea tree and eucalyptus. You can use it on countertops, tile, tubs, toilets, and more! It’s important to note that you do not use Castile soap on waxed wood floors because it will break down the wax. If you have product build-up on your floors, consider using a vinegar and hot water solution first.
All-Purpose Cleaner Without Using Vinegar
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup 70% isopropyl alcohol
- 3 drops liquid Castile soap
- Water
- 16-ounce glass spray bottle
Instructions:
- Pour rubbing alcohol into the glass spray bottle and then add the liquid Castile soap.
- An optional step is to add a few drops of your favorite essential oils.
- Fill the rest of the bottle with water and screw on the top. Give your bottle a quick shake to combine the ingredients.
- Spray mixture on your surfaces, wipe, and clean.
