In our quest for eco-friendly living and sustainable practices, peppermint oil emerges as a surprisingly versatile ally. This aromatic essential oil, derived from the peppermint plant, isn’t just for flavoring your favorite holiday treats or freshening your breath. Its applications extend far beyond the culinary realm, offering a plethora of benefits for those who are environmentally conscious and prefer natural solutions.
Tired of looking for natural remedies for cleaning your home? Struggling to keep your living room smelling fresh and looking clean without using toxic chemicals?
There is an easy way to solve all your home cleaning problems.
Peppermint Oil
It would be an understatement to say that peppermint oil is a versatile essential oil. A hybrid of spearmint and watermint plant, peppermint has a long history of being used in culinary arts and as an herbal remedy dating back to ancient Egypt.
Peppermint can be used internally, topically, and aromatically to alleviate health issues like digestive problems and for cleaning homes. What makes peppermint oil so special? It’s the combination of its invigorating scent and powerful properties. The oil is known for its antimicrobial and antifungal qualities, making it an excellent choice for those looking to ditch harsh chemicals in favor of natural cleaning agents. Its strong, refreshing aroma not only pleases the senses but also acts as a natural deodorizer, combating unpleasant odors in various areas of your home.
In this article, we delve into the myriad ways peppermint oil can transform your household chores, particularly focusing on natural cleaning and freshening solutions.
What is Peppermint Oil, and How Does It Help Us in Our Day-To-Day Lives?
Mentha x piperita is the scientific name for the peppermint plant from where the oil is extracted. But to keep things simple and uncomplicated, we will continue calling it just peppermint oil.
The peppermint plant originally comes from Europe and North America. It is distinguishable from other plants thanks to its refreshing and cool odor.
Peppermint oil can be used in various day-to-day activities, some of which we will explore in more detail. Here are some of the uses of peppermint oil:
- It is used to counter various health conditions like nausea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), headaches, colds, and other digestive issues.
- It is also used for making cosmetic products and soaps due to its refreshing smell.
- Peppermint oil is often used topically for headaches, itching, and muscle pain.
- It is also used in home cleaning as a deodorizer and cleaning agent.
5 Ways To Use Peppermint Oil For Natural and Refreshing Home Cleaning
Here are ten ways in which you can use peppermint oil as a natural home cleaning product:
1. Get Rid of Critters and Bugs
Bugs and critters like mice, ticks, ants, and spiders cannot stand the sharp smell of peppermint oil. So, spray some around your home to repel these nasty germ-carrying creatures. Here is how you can use it to keep pests out:
- Dab some cotton balls in peppermint oil and wipe them at the entrances of your home, like doorways and windows, to keep ants and spiders away.
- You can also leave these cotton balls filled with peppermint oil at nooks and corners to deter mice from entering your home.
- You can also use peppermint oil topically on your skin as a bug repeller. Use a carrier oil along with the peppermint oil if you have sensitive skin, and always do a patch test.
2. Natural Home Cleaning Remedy
Peppermint essential oil is perfect for home cleaning due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. You can make your cleaning solution by following these simple steps:
- Take peppermint and tea tree oil and add 10 to 20 drops of both in a mixture of water and white vinegar.
- Pour the mixture into a 16oz spray bottle and shake it well.
- Spray the concoction to disinfect or clean.
3. Keep Foul Smells Away
Peppermint essential oil also acts as an excellent odor control. Here is how:
- For trash bags ─ Soak a cotton ball with an adequate amount of peppermint oil and leave it at the bottom of your garbage can.
- As an air freshener, mix distilled water with peppermint oil and shake it well. Spray the mixture liberally all over your house.
4. Natural Home Freshener
Peppermint essential oil can be used beautifully as mildew, mold remover, and carpet freshener. Let’s see how:
- Blend peppermint and tea tree oil with water and spray the mixture on mold and mildew infestation areas. Wait for a couple of minutes and scrub clean the place.
- Mix baking soda with peppermint oil and sprinkle on the carpet. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes, and then vacuum it properly. This will not only freshen up the carpet but also deodorize it effectively.
5. Laundry and Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Peppermint oil is quite effective as a toilet bowl cleaner and with laundry detergent, thanks to its unique antibacterial properties and deodorizing effect.
- Toilet bowl cleaner ─ Transform your toilet cleaning with a homemade blend of vinegar, baking soda, and peppermint essential oil. This potent mixture ensures a sparkling clean bowl, leaving behind a refreshingly minty aroma. The antifungal properties of peppermint oil actively combat mold and mildew, ensuring a hygienic bathroom environment. Embrace this eco-friendly solution for a naturally fresh, clean, and pleasant bathroom experience.
- Laundry freshener ─ Revitalize your laundry routine with peppermint oil. By adding a few drops to your detergent, you can infuse your clothes with a fresh, minty aroma. This natural approach not only leaves fabrics smelling invigoratingly fresh but also imparts the soothing essence of peppermint, making your laundry experience both pleasant and aromatically therapeutic.
Final Words
These are just some of the uses of Peppermint oil for naturally cleaning your home and keeping it fresh. While peppermint oil is safe in most cases, it is best to consult a medical professional before using it extensively in your home.
Always use this oil in moderation and enjoy its refreshing benefits all day.
