As promised, here is the recipe for the other homemade cleaning product that we use regularly, a scrub for the bathrooms and the kitchen. Again, it has Dr. Bronners as the base, and baking soda gives it some graininess to make it a good scrub. It also has vinegar in it, which I think is to give it a bit of bubble as well as for its cleaning properties. (If you've never made baking soda and vinegar volcanoes with your kids I highly recommend trying it. . . outside.)
The teatree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties so it is perfect for the bathroom. If you do not need a disinfectant, though, you can substitute some of that addictive grapefruit oil for the teatree and lavendar oils.
This scrub is also a snap to make, although I have to admit that Gabe has become the regular maker and shaker these days.
10 minutes preparation time
I usually buy the oils for this recipe right from Virginia, which you can do too. Just send me an e-mail and I will send you her contact information. They are also available at many grocery stores. We have bought them at Whole Foods and I understand that they are also available at MOM's Organic Market in this area. When you are looking to buy the oil, note that it need not be food-grade quality, which is usually more expensive.
Makes about 2 1/2 cups of scrub
10 minutes preparation time
1 1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup Dr. Bronner's Unscented Pure Castille Soap
2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
2 teaspoons tea tree essential oil
2 teaspoons lavender essential oil
Mix all the ingredients together and add about 1 1/2 cups of water. Stir the mixture until the baking soda has dissolved into the water. The mixture will dry out over time. If necessary, add more water and mix again. Use on sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, shower walls, etc.
Hi Margy--I have been really enjoying your blog. Thanks for the disinfectant scrub--could you send the info on your oil connection? Is it cheaper than Whole Foods? Thanks-- barbara
Posted by: Barbara Beachler | May 19, 2011 at 10:31 AM
Margy, the Tea Tree Oil works wonders when you think you're getting sick with a cold also, just pour a little bit on a piece of clothes or kleenex and inhale it every chance you get...It works!!
I love your blog!..
Posted by: eva | May 20, 2011 at 07:16 AM
You can certainly buy those oils (and many more) at MOM's Organic Market. MOM's guarantees that the price will match or be lower than Whole Foods. Did you know MOM's is about to open its seventh store in Timonium, MD at 22 W. Ridgely Road? Grand opening ceremonies will take place May 28, 29 and 30.
Posted by: Julie Hafer | May 23, 2011 at 01:52 PM