Floor Cleaning 101: Tips on keeping your floors clean without chemicals!
In our pursuit of a cleaner home, it's easy to turn to chemical-laden solutions to keep our floors and carpets pristine. However, there's a gentle, eco-friendly approach that not only maintains cleanliness but also supports a healthier environment. By harnessing the power of natural ingredients and smart cleaning practices, you can achieve spotless floors and carpets without relying on harsh chemicals. Here are some effective tips and techniques to keep your home naturally clean.
1) Regular Vacuuming and Dusting: Start with the basics—regular vacuuming and dusting. These simple practices prevent dirt, dust, and allergens from accumulating on your floors and carpets. I talk about my vacuum non stop on Instagram! Is it possible to love an appliance this much? The Dyson cordless vacuum is pricey, but worth every penny. I used to buy cheaper ones every few years so in the long run, it’s really not costing you more. You can also look for an older version (that’s what we did)! The best thing is that I actually enjoy vacuuming now, so my floors are much cleaner!
2) Baking soda for carpet deodorizing: Baking soda is a wonder ingredient for carpet care. Sprinkle it generously on carpets, leave it for 15-20 minutes, and then vacuum thoroughly. Baking soda not only absorbs odors but also helps lift dirt and stains. I add 10-20 drops of my favorite essential oils too! My favorites are orange or Christmas Spirit.
Here is my rug refresher recipe:
Container: I have this one and just got this one I’m excited about.
1 cup baking soda
10-20 drops essential oils
Add baking soda and oils to your container and shake to combine. Sprinkle on your carpet or rug, leave for 15-20 and vacuum up!
3) Thieves Cleaner for Hard Floors: Create a natural cleaning solution by a cap of Thieves cleaner to 16 oz of water. This solution is perfect for hard floors like tile, hardwood, or laminate. It effectively removes dirt and grime without leaving residue. We love this mop for a deep clean and this one I use for daily messes! You can watch my husband mop the floor here.
4) Steam Cleaning for Deep Carpet and Floor Cleaning: Invest in or rent a steam cleaner for deep cleaning. Steam effectively sanitizes and lifts stubborn stains without the need for harsh chemicals. Just add a cap of Thieves cleaner instead of using the cleaner that comes with the machine. This is a good steam mop and this one is good for spot cleaning carpet!
5) Natural Carpet Stain Removal: Treat carpet stains promptly using natural solutions. For example, club soda works wonders on fresh stains. Blot the stain with a cloth soaked in club soda and gently dab until the stain lifts. I also use my all purpose Thieves spray to treat stains on rugs.
6) Essential Oils for Freshening Carpets: Essential oils not only leave a delightful scent but also possess natural antibacterial properties. Mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your carpets for a refreshing touch. Add a drop to your vacuum filter to freshen as you clean. If your vacuum doesn’t have a removable filter, you can put a few drops on a cotton ball and add that to the canister or bag. These are the oils we use.
7) Use Microfiber Cloths for Quick Spills: Keep microfiber cloths handy for quick cleanups of spills on floors. These cloths are highly absorbent and can quickly soak up liquid without leaving residue behind.
8) Don’t wear shoes inside: This is a super easy thing to do and will keep so many germs out of your home and off the carpet. Just doing this one thing will significantly improve the cleanliness of your floors and it also keeps the air in the home clean. This is even more helpful if you have small children and pets that are walking around on the floor.
9) Open Windows for Air Circulation: Allow fresh air to circulate by opening windows regularly. This helps remove indoor pollutants and keeps your home feeling fresh. I even do this in the winter for 30 minutes at a time and it’s so refreshing!
10) DIY Natural Floor Polish: Mix olive oil and vinegar in equal parts to create a DIY natural floor polish for wooden floors. Apply sparingly and buff for a natural shine.
Maintaining clean floors and carpets without chemicals isn't just beneficial for your home; it's a step towards a more sustainable and healthier lifestyle. I used to use lots of chemicals when my kids were little and I’m sure it wasn’t the healthiest for them or for my pets. By embracing these natural cleaning methods and tips, you not only ensure a pristine living space but also contribute positively to the environment. Let's embrace the power of nature in our cleaning routines for a greener and cleaner home.
XO,
Sarah