Natural Home Cleaning: Winter Edition
“The objective of cleaning is not just to clean, but to feel happiness” - Marie Kondo
When the days are short like they ae now on this damp grey Feb day and we retreat indoors, keeping our homes clean and fresh becomes more important than ever. I'm a heat-lover, so winter is extra hard for me - windows closed against the chill, the heating working overtime, the indoor air quality is rubbish, and damp becomes a concern. But there's no need for harsh chemical cleaners – nature provides everything we need to keep our homes sparkling throughout the winter season.
Lately I've been making a real effort to switch from chemicals and an overload of plastic, so here's what I suggest if you want to do the same!
Create a Winter Cleaning Routine
Winter cleaning presents unique challenges compared to our usual spring clean. Mud and leaves get tracked in more frequently, condensation builds up on windows, and our homes need extra attention to ward off winter bugs. Setting up a gentle yet effective cleaning routine using natural ingredients will help maintain a healthy home environment without introducing harmful chemicals into your living space.
Rather than a rigid schedule, think of this as your flexible winter rhythm – one that works with the season, not against it.
Start your day by opening windows for 10 minutes whilst having your morning cuppa – even in winter, this quick air-out works wonders. Pop on a load of washing early to make the most of any winter sunshine for drying.
Focus on high-traffic areas daily: a quick hoover of walkways where wet shoes have travelled, and a wipe of frequently touched surfaces with a natural vinegar solution (pop some orange peel in your vinegar for a lovely scent).
Weekly, rotate through deeper tasks: dusting radiators to improve heating efficiency, washing blankets that have been cuddled under and smell a bit feet-y, and giving extra attention to window sills where condensation might gather.
Remember, this is about making life easier, not perfect – adjust as needed to suit your rhythm.
Essential Natural Cleaning Ingredients
Your grandmother likely knew the cleaning power of store cupboard staples, and these traditional solutions are just as effective today. At your next grocery shop, stock up on these:
White vinegar: A brilliant natural disinfectant that tackles limescale and cuts through grease. Mix equal parts with water in a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner.
Bicarbonate of soda: Perfect for absorbing odours and creating a gentle scrub for sinks and baths. It also works wonders on carpet stains from muddy boots.
Lemon juice: Nature's bleach alternative, excellent for removing stains and adding a fresh scent to your cleaning routine.
Essential oils: Tea tree, lavender, and pine oils not only add wonderful natural scents but also possess antimicrobial properties - I like those from The Soapery
Tackling Winter-Specific Cleaning Challenges
Window Condensation
During winter, condensation on windows becomes a daily battle that can lead to mould if left unchecked. Create a natural solution by mixing two tablespoons of tea tree oil with two cups of water in a spray bottle.
Wipe windows daily with this mixture to prevent mould growth, and enjoy the smell while you're at it! If you're able, crack those windows open as often as possible too.
Muddy Entranceways
With a large dog, 2 cats, 2 adults and a football-playing teen, we get a lot of traffic through our doors! I like natural coir mats because they're cheap, durable, and they look good. I have them both outside and inside my doors to trap dirt.
For muddy footprints that make it past those defences and onto rugs and carpets, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on the affected area, leave for 15 minutes, then hoover thoroughly.
For deeper cleaning, you can also make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and a small amount of water, work it into the carpet fibres, then hoover once dry.
Maintaining Indoor Air Quality
When your home is sealed against the cold, indoor air can become stale and laden with pollutants. With a bit of effort, we can help with that.
Natural Air Fresheners
Smell is sooo important and I love to create air fresheners with a simmer pot. You can put together a quick winter simmer pot by throwing some cinnamon sticks, cloves and orange peel into a pan of water and letting it gently simmer on the hob.
Change it up for different smells and see what you like - for something fresh try various slices of citrus (orange, lemon, grapefruit) with refreshing herbs like rosemary or thyme. Throw in some peppercorns for depth and a splash of vanilla for sweetness.
For a simpler option, try placing bowls of bicarbonate of soda around your home to absorb odours naturally.
Keeping Radiators Dust-Free
Clean radiators will emit heat more efficiently. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, dampen a microfibre cloth with the solution, and wipe down radiators thoroughly. The vinegar helps break down dust without leaving any residue.
Natural Disinfecting for Cold and Flu Season
During peak cold and flu season, regular disinfecting becomes crucial. Create an effective natural disinfectant spray by combining:
2 cups water
1/2 cup white vinegar
15 drops tea tree oil
10 drops lavender oil
Please excuse the American measurements, but sometimes I find them simpler! Use this mixture on frequently touched surfaces like door handles, light switches, and remote controls. Just spray and wipe as normal.
Dealing with Winter Textiles
Heavy winter bedding and throws need special attention to stay fresh. Add a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine's rinse cycle to naturally soften fabrics and remove any musty odours. For items that can't be machine washed, sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda, leave overnight, then vacuum thoroughly.
Sustainable Cleaning Tools
Making swaps to more natural and reusable materials is good for your home, your skin, your soul and your planet! Complete your natural cleaning kit with sustainable tools such as:
Microfibre cloths for dust-free cleaning without chemical
Natural bristle brushes for scrubbing
Cotton or bamboo cleaning cloths instead of disposable wipes
Use a natural loofah in the shower
Reusable spray bottles for your homemade solutions
Remember to wash your cleaning tools regularly in hot water with a splash of vinegar to keep them fresh and effective.
Finals Thoughts
Winter cleaning needn't rely on harsh chemicals to be effective. By embracing natural cleaning methods, you're not only creating a healthier home environment but also reducing your environmental impact. These traditional cleaning solutions have stood the test of time for good reason – they work brilliantly and often cost far less than commercial alternatives! While it may be a tad more convenient to grab a plastic bottle of spray cleaner in Tesco, it is so much more worth it to make your own and put it in a glass bottle that will last for years rather than going to landfill. Over time, you'll find more pounds in your pocket too.
As you settle in for the winter months, take comfort in knowing your home is being cared for with pure, natural ingredients that would make your grandmother proud. Your home will not only be cleaner but will also feel more inviting and harmonious – the perfect sanctuary for the cold months ahead!
