How to Clean Wood With Everyday Household Products

Things You Will Need

• Lemon oil
• Mineral oil
• Toothpaste
• Vegetable oil
• Vinegar
• Peppermint oil
• Soft cloth
• Spray bottle
• Mop
• Bucket
• Long-handled spoon

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Clean, polish and restore all the wood around your home with products you probably already have on hand. Items such as lemon, mineral oil (found in baby oil) or vegetable oil can all be used on floors and furnishings.

Mopping Solution

1. Add equal parts distilled vinegar and warm water to a bucket.

2. Add approximately 15 drops of peppermint oil. Use your mop or a long-handled spoon to mix thoroughly.

3. Mop floors as usual and allow to dry.

Floor Polish

1. Add equal parts vegetable oil and vinegar to a bucket.

2. Mix together completely with a long-handled spoon or similar item.

3. Use a soft cloth to apply a thin coat to floors, taking care to rub the solution in well.

Furniture Polish

1. Add one pint of mineral oil and two teaspoons of lemon oil to a spray bottle.

2. Shake well to mix.

3. Spray the solution on a soft cloth to dampen, then use to dust and polish wood furniture. Rub in completely, then wipe any excess clean.

References

• Eco Cycle: Alternative Cleaners and Recipes
• Eartheasy: Guides -- Non-Toxic Home Cleaning

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Resources

• National Geographic: Green Guide For Everyday Living

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Tips

Rub a small amount of toothpaste directly on water marks on furniture to remove them.

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Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images

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