9 Game-Changing Uses for Essential Oils to Freshen Up Your Cleaning Routine

More and more, people are turning to DIY cleaning solutions, and essential oils are a game changer for anyone who’s curious about changing up their cleaning supplies. In fact, even if you prefer to use pre-made cleaners, essential oils are worth keeping on hand for a spritz now and then.

But which oils are best and how should they be used? We turned to an essential oil-loving expert to find out.

Phase Out Your Store-Bought Products

Whether you’re looking to veer away from store-bought cleaners due to allergies or you’re simply feeling curious about some non-toxic options, home expert and influencer Laura Ascher says essential oils are total game changers.

“It didn’t take long to realize how effective essential oils can be when used for cleaning,” she says.

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Create the Perfect Bathroom Cleaner

For the ultimate cleaning solution, Ascher says it’s all about pairing your preferred essential oil with vinegar, Castile soap, and baking soda. In her case, she loves using tea tree oil for use in the bathroom.

“Tea tree oil is one of my top picks, especially for bathroom cleaning and toilet spray recipes because it pairs well with vinegar and baking soda for tackling tough messes,” she says, noting that she even uses it as a toilet bowl cleaner.

Make Dish Soap 

If you’re looking to create a DIY dish soap solution or an all-purpose spray, Ascher suggests pairing your castile soap with a few drops of lavender oil. This is a much-loved scent, thanks to its soft, refreshing profile, but lavender oil can do more than make a space smell better.

“It also helps cut through grime and leave surfaces looking fresh,” Ascher says.

Deodorize Trash Bins

For an optimal kitchen cleaning solution, Ascher says she loves using peppermint or other mint oils. You can even use it to deodorize your kitchen trash.

“They do a decent job at cutting through grease, especially when paired with vinegar,” she says.

Ascher suggests adding it to your liquid dish soap or dish soap bars, or mixing in with a little vinegar and water for a multipurpose spray that can be used on countertops and tables, as well as the stovetop and sink.

Deodorize Your Living Spaces

If you’re dealing with a stale bedroom, bathroom, or living area, Ascher says you can use almost any essential oil to make the space smell better. One of the great things about essential oils is how great they all smell.

“Lavender is one of my favorites for its soft, floral scent, but it’s not just for show, it’s great for deodorizing, too,” she says. “I’ve used it in everything from room sprays to foaming hand soap.”

Make a Disinfectant 

When it comes to the most effective essential oils for disinfecting, Ascher says tea tree oil is the one with the most science-backed studies. That’s why she prefers to use it anywhere that needs to be cleaned thoroughly. 

“I always reach for it when cleaning surfaces that need a little extra attention,” she says. “It’s especially for tough jobs like soap buildup.”

This makes it an ideal option for tougher spots, like bathroom and kitchen sinks, showers, and countertops.

Spray Your Linens

Thanks to its soothing scent, lavender oil makes a great linen spray. Simply water down a few drops and spray it on your pillowcases, bedspread, or duvet.

“I like how it freshens things up without being overpowering,” Ascher says.

It can also be used to help air out musty storage spaces, linen closets, or seasonal clothing bins.

Use Tea Tree Oil On High-Touch Areas

Along with using tea tree oil to cut down grease and soap scum or deodorize toilets and bathroom surfaces, Ascher says she likes turning to this pick’s disinfectant properties for cleaning high-touch areas. This includes doorknobs and light switches in every room of the house.

“Plus, the scent is clean and refreshing without being overpowering,” she says. “A few drops in a spray bottle with vinegar or Castile soap can go a long way.”

Ward Off Pests with Peppermint Oil

Another great option for peppermint oil is to spray it near doorways and any potential holes or cracks. Yes, it smells great, but it can also help ward off pests.

“Peppermint oil discourages pests like ants and spiders, which is a nice bonus when you’re wiping down baseboards or window sills,” she says.