The best thing about essential oils: they’re incredibly versatile. An essential oil kit with a few key oils can be a “one-stop-shop” for holistic wellness. In my seemingly endless battle to cut the clutter, I love when a product can work on multiple levels and make life a bit simpler (come on, who doesn’t love simplicity? And if I ever need inspiration to simplify, I watch an episode of Hoarders! I’m pretty sure my house would end up “show ready” within a couple of months if I wasn’t careful!).Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus [Labill.] or Eucalyptus smithii [R.T.Baker]) is one essential oil I always keep on hand for its versatility. It’s great for inhalations during cold and flu season while also ideal for topical application on bites and stings in the summer. With powerful antiseptic and antiviral qualities, it’s also extremely useful for green cleaning around the house. Ah, simplicity in a little bottle! Here are eight green cleaning life hacks that will make you want eucalyptus on hand 24/7[1]:
1. Green Dishcloth Disinfectant
Soak cloths in a bowl with 2 drops of eucalyptus E. globulus and warm water.
2. Natural Goo and Gunk Remover
Looking for a natural substitute for the extremely toxic sticky goo removers? Use undiluted eucalyptus E. globulus essential oil to dissolve the sticky remnants of tape on furniture, floors, and appliances. It can, however, lift the varnish from the wooden furniture, so use with care and test on a hidden spot if you’re not sure.
3. Natural Sanitizer
Sanitize rooms with some eucalyptus E. globulus essential oil in a diffuser or make a spray and use around toilet and bathing areas.
4. Fresh and Clean Floor Cleanser
Add a teaspoon of eucalyptus E. globulus to a bucket of hot water when mopping or scrubbing floors. (Again, use with care on hardwood since it can strip the varnish.)
5. Natural Spot and Stain Remover
After carrying out a test on a hidden piece of the fabric, apply eucalyptus E. globulus directly to oil based stains. Leave a few minutes then wash carefully as usual.
6. Green Clean Bathroom Deodorizer
Place 2 drops of eucalyptus E. globulus in the inner cardboard roll of toilet roll. Or use 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil on a light bulb ring in the bathroom.
7. Natural Shoe Deodorizer
Drop 4-6 drops of eucalyptus E. globulus essential oil onto blotting paper (or cotton balls) and leave in sports shoes overnight.
8. Green Trashcan and Compost Bin Sanitizer
Add 1 drop of eucalyptus E. globulus directly in trashcan/compost bin or add 3 drops to hot water and use the mixture to wash out the trashcan.
As you can see, you don’t need to go on a cleaning spree. These simple green cleaning life hacks can keep your home fresh, clean, and free of toxic chemicals.
If you loved these green cleaning tips, be sure to check out my other blogs on green cleaning with essential oils:
- Green Cleaning: Why We Love Lavender Essential Oil (And You Should, Too!)
- Green Cleaning: 10 Essential Oils that Naturally Repel Insects
- Green Cleaning Swaps: How to Trade Toxic Cleaners for Natural Essential Oils in Your Home
Or you can download our free eBook for more great tips and green cleaning recipes!
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Tell me your favorite thing about green cleaning with eucalyptus EO in the comments!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I am the CIO of American College of Healthcare Sciences, the Institution that publishes this blog. However, all opinions are my own. This blog may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
[1] In all recipes, E. globulus can be substituted with E. smithii, which is considered a bit milder.
