Cleaning

Orientation:

Please listen to your animated helper fill you in on today’s course. He has put up with cleaning up after everyone on the Ship, and we value his work very much!

Grab a beverage and head over to the Ship’s Library. When you get comfortable, read over today’s notes and watch the videos.

Today’s lesson includes more cleaning videos, tips, and recipes. At the end of the section, there is also a hefty journal handout.

We hope you are inspired to use the oils and techniques to sparkle up your living quarters.

Before proceeding, please review the Cleaning Introductory Class from Practical Potions 1- (Lesson 3G). https://www.northernstarcourses.com/lesson/g-the-cleaning-genie/

 

Introduction:

“Ah, cleaning! That everyday task never seems to take a break. Keeping on top of it can be a dance, but letting it slide? Well, that can lead us to feeling overwhelmed and crunched for time. Sure, tidying up requires a bit of elbow grease, but let’s look at the bright side—it’s an unexpected way to sneak in some exercise and feel accomplished when you’re done.

And here’s a little secret: when essential oils are added, cleaning transforms from a chore into a delightful, sensory experience. Ditch those harsh, chemical-laden products and discover how essential oils can uplift your space and spirits. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into a cleaner, greener, and more aromatic way to maintain our surroundings!”

Cleaning With Essential Oils Video, Please Press Play

Sewage Microbes

In the early 1900s, Cavel tested essential oils to determine if they could kill microbes in sewage. Thyme was most effective; sweet orange and peppermint were also efficient. (Cavel 1918)

Typhus and Staphylococcus bacteria

Lemon neutralizes thymus and staph aureus. Cinnamon kills typhus when diluted 1 part in 300 (Valnet 1980).
Professor Griffon made a 7-oil blend using cinnamon, clove, lavender, peppermint, pine, rosemary and thyme to study the antiseptic effect of these oils on the surrounding air. When this mixture was sprayed from an aerosol, all staph and moulds were destroyed after 30 minutes.

Diluting the same oils in water would also make an excellent household cleaner.

Warning–

When using essential oils for cleaning, always dilute a few drops in water and disperse them fully. Wear rubber gloves to prevent allergies or sensitization. Do not use essential oils on plastic, some linoleums, or treated surfaces without testing to see if the substance melts or is damaged. Essential oils can also destroy finishes on furniture, so test on the underside of the furniture before using.

Attitudes of Cleaning

Making a home beautiful and sanitary is an under-appreciated act overall. Cleaning people have yet to be given the respect or appreciation earned for such an important job.

In my mind, cleaning is an art. Only some people have the skill to see the difference between a spotless or untidy place and have the drive to make their space clean. Yet lives are transformed by the simple but time-consuming acts of cleaning and decluttering.

Clearing clutter gets rid of the old and makes way for the new. Some of the resistance to housework occurs due to an adverse reaction to toxic cleaning solutions. Resistance also happens because cleaning is a big, relentless job. But it is certainly important!

Change your attitude to cleaning. Give yourself lots of approval!

Make the experience better by putting on great music, creating some effective and wonderful-smelling concoctions, and knowing that you are an in-home artist creating a healthy and beautiful space.

Career-wise, aromatherapy offers excellent opportunities. It involves cleaning with natural products and creating products for others to use joyfully!

The Cleaning Genie

Starting about 1990- I knew the attitude toward cleaning needed to be transformed in people’s lives. I heard many stories from students about how they hated cleaning. The gender issue was one piece of the puzzle.  Women were still expected to clean and were not generally appreciated for their efforts. I understood those feelings well.

Another issue repeatedly brought up by students and customers was that commercial cleaners left them feeling ill and disoriented. People who have a health-related reaction to toxins are reluctant to clean.

I have much respect for those who clean. Cleaning makes a massive difference in the quality of life and sanity for those of us who are very sensitive to our environments. But, the effects only last for a while. Chaos keeps interrupting!

A few years after stewing in this cultural cauldron, I came up with the idea of the Cleaning Genie- An easy-to-create kit that made cleaning more fun and less toxic.

I will share the bones of the Cleaning Genie with you, and you may adapt it for your use.

I initially tried this idea out as a Christmas gift. Some family members were not initially thrilled with receiving tools to clean. After a few weeks of using them, the reviews improved significantly.  My friends and family felt more inspired to clean up the inevitable mess life throws at us.

The Cleaning Genie- Template-

Here is a template for you to use, modify and play with.

First, I buy plastic baskets to securely hold the various bottles of cleaning products. I then give people the cleaning products in glass jars with instructions. I also include a copy of my favourite upbeat music to use while cleaning. I also throw in rubber gloves and a paper mask to protect them from dust, mould, etc.

A Non-Toxic Way To Clean Your Home:

I included the instructions for my friends, family, and students.

To make your wish “our command,” the Cleaning Genie has appeared to help turn housecleaning into an aromatic adventure. Conventional household cleaners contain toxic and harmful substances that may leave the house cleaner but the environment in a toxic state.
All of the substances used in this kit are kind to the environment, and unless you have an allergy to one of the oils, they should also be gentle on your system. Of course, do not take any of the products internally. Do not use it if you are pregnant or epileptic. Protect your children and pets from these products, as internal use could be fatal.

Some of the ingredients in this kit are old-fashioned favourites, such as baking soda and vinegar, while others, like the aromatic room spray, are more contemporary.
All of the bottles can be refilled by you and reused after initial consumption.

Orange Cleaner-

You may use TKO-trademarked, a concentrated citrus formula that can be used for many purposes in various rooms, such as the kitchen, bathroom, etc. Pure sweet orange and essential oil will also work.
Dilute TKO or sweet orange essential oil by adding a few drops of water to the kitchen sink. As orange oil can be aggressive on the skin, you may find using rubber gloves advantageous with this product. Do not spray onto plastic, into the eyes, or internally.

Dirt & Grease Magic–

Add this to a little hot water for general household cleaning.

2 Tbsp. liquid castile soap
1 cup vinegar
1/4 cup washing soda
20 drops eucalyptus, tea tree or rosemary, e.o. Add some to a hot water bucket to clean floors (not hardwood).

Sink Cleaner-

Baking soda can be used as a scouring agent in sinks instead of an abrasive cleaner. Sprinkle it on a sponge or cloth to remove stains from cups, teapots, sinks, countertops, and tile. You can also sprinkle baking soda into a litter box to help absorb smells. My mom also likes to put baking soda in an open container in the refrigerator to absorb odours.

Glass Cleaner–

Undiluted White Vinegar and 20 ml. of peppermint e.o or lemon e.o. Spray a little onto the glass and wipe clean. It acts as a natural degreasing agent. Use a squirt in a sink of clean water to wipe up counters and appliances. Please do not get this vinegar-based cleaner into your eyes, drink, or use it on plastic. Use rubber gloves to avoid drying out the skin.

Furniture Polish–

A creamy blend of oils and waxes will hydrate and preserve wood. Keep this product in the fridge. Pull out a small spoonful and distribute it evenly on a flannel cloth. Test your furniture first to ensure the polish does not strip or damage. If the results are promising, massage a small amount of the creamy mix onto your wood. Repeat at least four times a year.
Recipe in Practical Potions Journal

Washing Machine Strips–

Use a small sheet of cotton fabric and apply three drops of eucalyptus or tea tree oil to it or a sturdy piece of clothing, like cotton jeans or washcloths, so the essential oils will not ruin it. I do not use essential oils in the dryer, as I am paranoid about potential fires.

Jean the Cleaning Genie- Microwave Cleaning Tip- Press Play

(Be ready to write down the recipe)

Cleaning Hardwood Floors

Ingredients:

1 cup of distilled water
1/2 cup of white vinegar (natural disinfectant)
1/2 cup of fractionated coconut oil (to nourish the wood)
15 drops of lemon essential oil (natural cleanser and brings a fresh scent)
Ten drops of lavender essential oil (for a calming aroma)
5 drops of tea tree essential oil (antibacterial properties)

Formulation and Use:
Combine all the ingredients in a large spray bottle. Shake well or use a blender to ensure the oil and water components mix correctly. Spray lightly on the hardwood floor and mop with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth. Ensure you pick up all the water and do not ruin your hardwood. This solution cleans the wood, while the coconut oil helps protect and nourish it without leaving it greasy.

Cautions:
Please always do a patch test in an inconspicuous area to ensure the mixture does not damage the finish of your hardwood. Please be sure to use sparingly, as too much water or oil can damage wood.

Cleaning Stubborn Wall Marks
Ingredients:

1/2 cup of baking soda (natural abrasive)
1/4 cup of distilled water
10 drops of peppermint essential oil (antibacterial and refreshing scent)
10 drops of orange essential oil (grease-cutting properties and uplifting scent)

Formulation and Use:
Mix the baking soda and distilled water to form a paste. Add the essential oils and mix until well combined. Apply the paste to the marks on the wall using a soft cloth or sponge, gently rubbing in a circular motion. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and dry the area thoroughly.

Cautions:
Test the paste on a small, hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t remove paint or damage the wall’s finish. Use gentle pressure to avoid damaging the wall surface. Keep away from children and pets.

Pet Area Cleaning Formula

Ingredients:

1 cup of distilled water (base)
2 TBSP of apple cider vinegar (milder odour neutralizer compared to white vinegar)
One tablespoon of liquid castile soap (gentle, plant-based cleaner)
2 drops of lavender essential oil (soothing, pet-safe in dilution)
2 drops of orange essential oil (calming, gentle scent)
Formulation and Use:
Combine the distilled water, apple cider vinegar, and liquid castile soap in a spray bottle. Gently swirl to mix. Add the essential oils and shake well. Spray lightly around the pet’s area and wipe off with a soft cloth.

Cautions:

Ensure pets are not directly exposed to the spray during application. Air out the room.
Avoid using essential oils in high concentrations around animals, as they can be sensitive.
Always let cleaned items or areas dry completely before pets use them again.

Dry Carpet Shampoo Formula

Ingredients:

1 lb (16 oz) of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) – for deodorizing and gentle cleaning
1 tsp of borax (sodium borate) – optional, for additional cleaning power
1 tsp of fine Atlantic sea salt – to boost the cleaning effect
5 ML (total) of your choice of lemongrass, lavender, orange, or tea tree essential oil.

Weigh out all the ingredients accurately using your scale.
Add the baking soda, borax (if using), and sea salt to the mixing bowl.
Drizzle the essential oil over the dry ingredients.
Use the whisk to thoroughly blend everything, ensuring the essential oil is evenly distributed throughout the powder.
Could you transfer the mixture to your airtight containers?

To Use:

Sprinkle the dry shampoo sparingly over the carpet.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to a few hours for more challenging odours.
Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove the dry shampoo and any bound dirt and odours.

Cautions:

The inclusion of borax can make this formula more potent. While borax is a natural mineral, misuse of it can be unpleasant. Always handle it with care, and consider wearing gloves when mixing.
Before applying it to the entire carpet, test the dry shampoo on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t affect the colour or texture.
If pets or small children frequent the area, skip the borax, as it can harm them if ingested in larger quantities.

Drawer Liner

The same cotton strip can also be put in your closet or linen drawer and scented with a more potent dose of oil- about 8 drops. Refresh weekly.

Room Spray–

This concentrated room spray will help disinfect the air in your home.
Lavender or orange will calm and disinfect, while Eucalyptus is highly disinfecting, killing over 80% of bacteria on contact. Spray into a room, being careful not to spray on walls. Keep away from eyes. Do not drink—eucalyptus is poisonous if taken internally. Do not use around children under 10.
The room spray can also be squirted into a sink with water to clean and disinfect counters, appliances, walls, etc. You can use rubber gloves while cleaning.

After Cleaning Hand Lotion-

Congratulations on finishing the cleaning. Now, it is time to treat yourself to a mild hand lotion. Using a sterile spoon, scoop out enough cream to re-moisturize well-used hands. Relax and celebrate a job well done. Create the Nourishing Cream Hand Lotion from your Practical Potions Journal Recipes.

Specific Cleaning Recipes and Ideas are in your Practical Potions Journal Downloads below.

Downloads

https://www.northernstarcourses.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Unit-6B.pdfCleaning.pdf