They sure have a lot of fun MAKING the mess, don’t they? But getting your kids to help around the house is like pulling teeth, we know. We’re not here to offer tips on how to motivate your kids to complete their chore list (sorry), we’re just here to make it safer once they do decide to help!
So many chemical ridden cleaners market themselves as safe, green, organic, etc… but they’re expensive, and are they really that safe? We scoured the internet for the top kid friendly homemade cleaners… and while there are quite a few suggestions out there, we think we narrowed it down to the only two that really hit the mark. These cleaning solutions are safe, green, cheap and easy to put together… and the best part is that you may already have most of these ingredients in your pantry!
Vinegar + Baking Soda
Everyone’s heard of this combo… and that’s because it works! Whether you’re disinfecting a grimy counter top, soaking the discolored toilet or freshening the dishwasher or garbage disposal, this versatile dynamic duo tops our list when it comes to being an “oldie but a goodie.” Used on their own or combined, there are endless uses for vinegar and baking soda around the home. This homemade cleaner is incredibly kid friendly as both vinegar and baking soda are commonly eaten, so if you kid ingests this solution… the extent of your problem will be hearing them complain that it’s “yucky.” Task your kid with mixing equal parts vinegar and baking soda into each of your crusty pots, pans and bakeware with caked on grease. Just like the old volcano experiment, kids will enjoy creating a bubbly reaction without realizing how helpful they’re being! Win, win.
Bonus tip: Did you know? Used as an exfoliant or sprinkled on toothpaste, baking soda’s micro-scrubbing capabilities even make it a staple in many people’s beauty routines!
Essential Oils
Essential oils are natural, safe, antibacterial, and smell GREAT! With such a wide variety to choose from, your family can enjoy a sweet-smelling home while freshening bedding, disinfecting counter tops, and repelling bugs. If your kid can work a squirt bottle, these chores will be done safely in a breeze! Our favorite scents and their uses are:
Lemon Oil
Nothing smells quite as squeaky clean lemon – there’s a reason so many store bought cleaners are masking their chemical scent with lemon! Lemon oil is antibacterial and antiviral, making it a great addition to your homemade spray cleaner. Simply mix 1 part water with 1 part vinegar and up to 20 drops of lemon oil… this cleaner packs a double germ busting punch! Vinegar might seem stinky while you clean, but once it’s evaporated, you’re only left with the lingering scent of yummy lemons. Use on everything from countertops to tables, sinks and plastic toys.
Tea Tree Oil
Another bacteria busting oil, tea tree oil is a great addition to a homemade bathroom scrub – this oil helps baking soda scrub through toilet stains and rings around the tub. Tea tree oil is tough on mildew, so adding a few drops to your homemade vinegar solution will help keep bathroom tile bright and healthy. PLUS it’s great for your skin, so adding a few drops to your existing soap and shampoo can relieve you of dandruff, acne, smelly feet and more – your bathroom is almost a spa at this point!
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus is another great antibacterial oil that can be added to your homemade cleaner or detergent… and eucalyptus smells great, but only to us humans! To deter pests, create a bug repellant spray you can apply to your outdoor furniture, clothing and skin! Simply mix 1 part distilled water, 1 part witch hazel and up to 20 drops of eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle! You can also add peppermint or citronella oil – bugs hate them!
Enjoy the spring cleaning wrap-up – best of luck getting the kiddos to help out!
