Today’s DIY requires only three ingredients (okay, more like five if you add the optional ingredients). With only three ingredients we’re going to make an all-purpose cleaner (it seriously does everything) that’s 100% edible (except when you add one of the optional ingredients–darn optional ingredient).
1partwhite distilled vinegarslightly warm (not boiling just warm enough to infuse the herbs)
1-2cupfresh herbssuch as: sage, rosemary, lavender, thyme, or peppermint/mint
35dropspeppermint essential oilor rosemary, lemon, or sweet orange. Note: 35 drops per quart of cleaner., optional
2lemonsor limes, or oranges; or just the peels, optional
Instructions
In a large mason jar (quart-size works well), add the fresh herb(s). Use a muddle or the back of a wood spoon to crush the herbs and release the fragrance. You may also crush the herbs by rubbing the leaves in between your fingers, then adding the herbs to the jar.
Add the citrus to the jar, if using- just the peels or sliced citrus.
Pour 1 part vodka and 1 part vinegar into the jar so the herbs and citrus are fully immersed. Add the essential oil(s), if using. Allow the sealed cleaner jar to rest for at least 14 days at room temperature.
Notes
To Use: Pour the cleaner through a sieve to remove the herbs and citrus. Pour the cleaner into a spray bottle(s). I like these glass spray bottles. This cleaner is concentrated, so the solution may be diluted with 1 part water and 1 part cleaner, or used full-strength. Use on dirty surfaces, glass, or stainless steel. Store extra cleaning solution in the fridge for long-term use.
The “where to buy” links provide links to the actual products I use. As always, I recommend shopping around online and at local stores for the best prices and products you love. Find my favorite DIY ingredients and tools, here.