Eco DIY Stain Remover
With 2 young children and lots of pets in my house, stains are a frequent problem! I have been trying to transform my cleaning regime to lessen chemicals and this stain remover definitely ticks the right boxes. Glycerin acts as a solvent and so can soften even some dried and hardened stains, making your washing machine's job easier. Not only does it only take a few minutes to make, it costs pennies and does the planet a big favour :-)
Best vegetable glycerin!
Here is what you'll need. Some liquid vegetable glycerin, liquid castile soap, water, an essential oil of your choice (optional, but I always feel a product is working better if it smells clean- mind over matter for sure but a nice smell is still a plus point for me), a jug and fork for mixing, some measuring cups and a spray bottle (the other bottles in my photo are for storing excess because I only had a small spray bottle empty).
First you need 1/4 cup of castile soap. I don't have a 1/4 cup measure so I half filled my 1/2 cup.
Pour it straight into your jug. You'll need the same measuring cup again immediately.
Next you need 1/4 cup of glycerin.
Add to your jug with the castile soap.
Now add 1 1/2 cups water. As you can see in the photo here, the water has turned cloudy and bubbly because of the residue of the soap and glycerin in the cup.
Now add 10 drops of your chosen essential oil. I went for peppermint :-)
Use your fork to give the mixture a whisk to thoroughly combine.
Pour the mixture into your spray bottle.
Finally, use a pen to write a label onto the bottle. I have made a number of DIY eco cleaning products and it is easy to lose track without labels. To use, spray stains with the mixture, work in either with your fingers or by rubbing the material together. Then wash as normal. Treat it in the same way you would any shop bought pre wash stain removal spray!
There you have it. Another box ticked for eco friendly cleaning.
For more eco ideas and tips please visit @plastic_what_you_preach on Instagram.
Comments
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Not sure why everyone seems to need "scents" to clean. Be careful with essential oils. Some can MAKE a stain.
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Can’t wait to make this. Thanks for the recipe!
Frequently asked questions
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Have you tried making this using blue Dawn instead of the castile soap? Asking because I use the blue Dawn for removing oily stains on my husband's clothes, he works in the heating oil business.