A friend of mine, Vicky from Askthemama.com, recently ASKED ME a question… what do I recommend as a green alternative to commercial furniture polish?
The answer is worthy of a little sharing since furniture polish contains some nasty toxins. Not only is it a petroleum distillate, but it also commonly contains nitrobenzene. This chemical can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Because it’s readily absorbed into the skin it can also affect the central nervous system… quite a lot to take for some shiny, clean furniture!
Just like my favorite multi-purpose cleaner recipe, you can whip-up a batch your own (chemical-free) furniture polish:
- ¼ cup of distilled white vinegar
- ¼ cup of olive oil
- 20-25 drops of essential oil (I recommend lemongrass, lemon or lavender)
Apply it like you would your regular furniture polish but, just like any other homemade concoction, give it a good shake before each use. If you want to get even greener, use a piece of an old t-shirt for the rag!
As an extra bit of advice, did you know you can remove water stains from wood furniture with white toothpaste too!… ahh, the things we learn.
(And while I’m on the subject) when you purchase furniture try to be conscious to avoid certain hardwoods like mahogany, teak, rosewood and hemlock. The harvesting of these trees contributes to tropical deforestation. Instead, look for used, refurbished or antique furniture, or at least furniture made from sustainably-produced materials (e.g. plantation grown).
As is the case with every post about green cleaning, the worst part?… it reminds us that it’s time to clean(!), so whip-up a batch and let’s get started!
You need not only use olive oil…..vegetable oil or canola oil works as well.
I’ve used this recipe with lemon oil. Works well and smells great!
.-= Linky´s last blog ..Sierra Lane Maternity Clothes Review and 300 Gift Certificate Giveaway =-.
John – you’re probably right!… and I imagine it’s less expensive too!
Linky – thanks for the testimonial! 🙂
where is the best place to buy the essential oil?
Lisa – I have gotten some great deals online with Puritan’s Pride http://www.puritan.com/ Just enter “essential oils” in their search and see the list to choose from. They arrive quickly and shipping is reasonable and sometimes free! It’s much cheaper than our local health food store!
How long will it last ? Will it with satand sun exposure all weather changes ( hw long )
sandeep – not sure what you mean… are you asking how long it will last in a bottle (once you mix a batch) or how long it will remain on the furniture?