How to Safely Create Your Own Home Disinfectant Spray

Creating a homemade disinfectant spray is a practical and eco-friendly solution for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in your home. By using safe and easily accessible ingredients, you can produce a powerful yet gentle disinfectant. Let's explore some effective recipes and explore the safety measures associated with each.

Your Guide to Homemade Disinfectant Sprays

Online research reveals several recipes that can help you make a homemade disinfectant spray. These DIY preparations use common household ingredients and can be customized to your preference. It's important to choose a formula that is safe for use around people and pets.

Tincture of Green Soap Disinfectant Spray

One of the classic formulations for a homemade disinfectant spray is the Tincture of Green Soap. This formula, which originated in the 19th century, is still widely used today. The key ingredients are:

3/4 cup of distilled water 1/4 cup of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol or vodka 7 drops of lavender essential oil 7 drops of tea tree essential oil

To make the spray:

Pour 1/4 cup of vinegar or an alternative liquid into a spray bottle. Add 7 drops of lavender and tea tree essential oils. Do not overdo it with the essential oils. Mix the oils thoroughly by screwing on the lid and shaking gently. Use this spray in any part of your home and it is completely safe around your pets.

Lavender oil complements the tea tree oil and carries its natural disinfecting properties. Tea tree oil is a potent natural antiviral and antifungal, providing added protection against a variety of microbes.

Vinegar should only be used on hard surfaces to avoid damage to porous materials like unsealed natural stone.

Always use distilled water to ensure that the spray is free from contaminants and natural minerals.

Alcohol-Based Sanitizer

For a quick and effective sanitizer, you can mix 99% alcohol with a little dishwashing soap and distilled water. Here's a simple recipe:

8 fluid ounces of 99% alcohol 1 fluid ounce of water 2-3 drops of dishwashing soap

This mixture is powerful but gentle, making it suitable for various surfaces in your home.

Homemade Bleach Disinfectant Spray

To create a powerful yet safe disinfectant, you can use household bleach. Here's how:

Use about 1 ounce of household bleach in a spray bottle that holds about 24 ounces. Fill the rest of the bottle with tap water. Shake well before use. This solution is strong enough to fade coffee stains in mugs, ensuring it effectively kills germs. Store the spray away from direct sunlight as light can break down the bleach. Test the effectiveness of the solution by seeing if it can lighten stains on mugs. If it no longer works, discard it and make a fresh batch.

Use this spray on countertops, sinks, dishes, and cutting boards, leaving it for around 5 minutes before wiping dry. Rinsing and air-drying may be necessary for dishes and cutting boards.

Cautions and Safety Measures

While making homemade disinfectant sprays is a great idea, it's crucial to take safety precautions:

Ensure the area is well-ventilated when mixing the spray. Avoid getting the solution on clothing or towels as it can cause discoloration or damage. Store the prepared sprays in a cool, dark place to maintain their strength.

Conclusion

Creating your own homemade disinfectant spray is not only convenient but also cost-effective. By choosing the right ingredients and following these simple recipes, you can ensure a clean and hygienic living environment. Always prioritize safety and follow the guidelines for each homemade disinfectant to get the best results.