Sparkling Clean with cRANBERRIES: DIY Natural Cleaning Recipes
DIY Cleaning Recipes Incorporating Cranberries
Cranberries are not only great for skincare and culinary uses, but they can also be incorporated into natural cleaning solutions. Here are a couple of DIY cleaning recipes that utilize cranberries for their natural acidity and cleaning power.
1. Cranberry Vinegar All-Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra cleaning power)
- A few drops of essential oil (optional, for fragrance, such as lemon or lavender)
- A spray bottle
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cranberries:
- Rinse the cranberries and slightly crush them using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to release their natural juices.
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Infuse the Vinegar:
- In a clean jar, combine the crushed cranberries and white vinegar.
- Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for about two weeks. Shake the jar occasionally to help the infusion process.
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Strain the Mixture:
- After two weeks, strain the cranberry-infused vinegar through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl to remove the cranberry solids.
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Mix the Cleaner:
- In a spray bottle, combine the cranberry-infused vinegar with water and lemon juice (if using).
- Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance, if desired.
- Shake the bottle well to mix all the ingredients.
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Use the Cleaner:
- Spray the cranberry vinegar cleaner on countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.
- Wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
Benefits:
- The natural acidity of vinegar combined with the mild acidity of cranberries helps to break down grime and disinfect surfaces.
- The essential oils add a pleasant fragrance and additional antibacterial properties.
2. Cranberry Scrub for Kitchen Sinks and Bathroom Fixtures
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup coarse salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- A few drops of essential oil (optional, for fragrance, such as tea tree or eucalyptus)
- A clean jar with a lid
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cranberries:
- Rinse the cranberries and blend them into a coarse puree using a blender or food processor.
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Mix the Scrub:
- In a bowl, combine the cranberry puree, baking soda, coarse salt, and lemon juice (if using).
- Add a few drops of essential oil for added antibacterial properties and fragrance.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to form a paste.
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Store the Scrub:
- Transfer the cranberry scrub into a clean jar with a lid. Store in the refrigerator if you plan to keep it for more than a week.
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Use the Scrub:
- Apply the cranberry scrub to kitchen sinks, bathroom fixtures, or other surfaces that need a deep clean.
- Use a sponge or brush to scrub the surfaces.
- Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe dry.
Benefits:
- The abrasive nature of baking soda and coarse salt helps to remove tough stains and buildup.
- Cranberries add natural acidity that helps break down mineral deposits and add a fresh scent.
- Essential oils provide additional antibacterial properties and a pleasant fragrance.
These DIY cranberry cleaning recipes are not only effective but also eco-friendly and free from harsh chemicals. Share these with your audience to help them clean their homes naturally and enjoy the fresh, vibrant scent of cranberries!
cRANBERRY dIY cLEANING rECIPES
- Danielle Lasit