I’m not usually obsessed with disinfecting everything constantly, but there are moments when you need to bring out the heavy-duty stuff. This spray is similar to my homemade disinfecting wipes but lasts longer. It’s handy, fast, and combines powerful essential oils with recommended disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.
I came up with this recipe after doing some research from reputable places like the CDC, EPA, and Stanford University. I can’t guarantee how effective it is against specific viruses or bacteria, but it’s what I feel comfortable using at home when necessary. Remember, it’s essential to do your own research to ensure any product meets your needs.
If you’ve checked out my other posts, you’ll know that I don’t use antibacterial cleaners unless it’s necessary, which isn’t often. I do buy some natural soaps and detergents, but I like keeping things simple by mixing up what I need from basic ingredients in my pantry or cleaning closet.
Making your own cleaning products helps avoid harsh chemicals since you control what goes into them. The American Lung Association links many chemical-heavy disinfectants with issues like asthma and headaches. Some people can’t tolerate cleaners with fragrances or certain components, so they opt for more natural choices.
Since I don’t use disinfectants a lot, I made this spray with ingredients and essential oils I already had, saving me a trip to the store and avoiding clutter in my cleaning supplies.
There’s a lot of cleaning recipes online, so how can you know a homemade cleaner really works? Store-bought cleaners are tested for effectiveness, but that’s not guaranteed with homemade options. However, we have research backing some natural disinfectants. Some natural ingredients are even on CDC-approved lists, with guidance on how to use them.
Essential oils are small but mighty, so it’s crucial to use them safely. Just saying an oil is antibacterial or antiviral is not enough. Some oils are effective against specific pathogens but not others. For example, a 2020 study in Biomolecules found clove essential oil works against salmonella and E. coli but not certain pneumonia bacteria.
Viruses are trickier since they take over healthy cells and replicate. Some have a protective coating called a viral envelope, which requires the right antiviral to break down.
Here are a few essential oils known for their germ-fighting abilities and how they work:
Citrus oils like orange, lime, lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit not only kill harmful pathogens but also boost your mood and reduce stress, which is a win-win.
Natural disinfectants are definitely out there. Here are some options I’ve researched and used:
Alcohol is a popular choice for sanitizers and hard surfaces. But a lot of homemade products don’t use enough alcohol to work. According to the CDC, you need 60-90% alcohol for an effective disinfectant. Using less reduces its effectiveness. For example, typical vodka is 40% alcohol, which is below the needed level unless you use 120-proof vodka. Rubbing alcohol is usually between 70-90% and more affordable.
If you’re sensitive to alcohol fumes, hydrogen peroxide is an option. Unlike alcohol, a small amount of peroxide can disinfect effectively. Commercial peroxide-based cleaners use only 0.5-1% solution. Peroxide attacks pathogens and is one of the few natural EPA-approved disinfectants, effective against viruses like those that cause colds and flu. However, it might not work well in dirty areas, so you must clean surfaces before applying it.
Thymol, found in thyme oil, is another EPA-approved disinfectant effective against bacteria and viruses. Commercial cleaners use 0.05% thymol. However, not all thyme oils have the same thymol content, so it’s crucial to check this. For example, some brands have as little as 26%, while others have over 50%.
For this cleaner, you can choose a base of hydrogen peroxide or alcohol and add essential oils. If using thyme oil, make sure you’re using the right amount of thymol to be effective. Plant Therapy’s thyme oil averages 40% thymol, so use about 12 drops per 16 ounces of cleaning solution for a 0.05% concentration.
Note: Always remember to do your own research and talk with your doctor about what’s best for you and your family.
