There comes a time in every home when a little disinfecting is in order on top of the normal day-to-day cleaning routine. Some exposure to germs is good for us, helps build our immune systems, and keeps us healthier in the long run. However, there are times when we need to take a more aggressive tend toward cleanliness than the regular cleaning routine might allow.
After a bout of illness, stomach flu, or even after extended visitors or a large gathering it might be nice to kill some bacteria floating around on all those surfaces. Instead of grabbing the bleach or some other chemical laden aerosol spray, consider whipping up some of this all-natural homemade vodka disinfectant spray recipe instead.
Vodka, like most alcohol, is a natural disinfectant. It can easily kill many germs and works in a pinch to keep wounds and even equipment clean from infection causing bacteria. Use the cheapest, highest proof vodka that can be found for this recipe, no reason to pull out the expensive stuff that is being served over ice or in cocktails. The other great thing about vodka is that it dries fast meaning that it doesn’t need much in the way of wiping before touching the door knob or using the toilet seat.
Look for vodka with the highest proof possible…at least 60% alcohol is best (or at least 120 proof). Everclear is a high proof alcohol.
Some essential oils have disinfectant and antimicrobial properties on top of just making the spray smell better. Some choices (all good ones to consider):
Thieves Oil – The legend behind this particular blend is that it helped thieves stay free of the plague during the middle ages. If it can protect them, it can probably protect us, too. In all seriousness, there are a number of scientific studies that give some credence to the legend or to the various ingredients (like lavender and clove essential oils) in thieves oil.
Lavender – This beautiful herb been studied for a number of different antimicrobial effects including its ability to kill food-borne pathogens, which might be particularly nice after a stomach flu hits home.
Thyme – Has been studied and proven to kill antibiotic resistant strains of Staph infections. Thyme oil is being studied often for its antimicrobial properties and so is a great choice in this homemade spray.
Tea Tree Oil – Another traditional choice that has been scientifically studied. One study in particular found that it was more effective than bleach in cleaning ceramic (that toilet bowl). The one caveat there was that it should be mixed fresh before use – reduce the recipe below to make single serve portions if so desired.
Easy and Effective Homemade DIY Disinfectant Cleaner
- 3/4 C Vodka (at least 60% alcohol, which is 120 proof)
- 1/4 C Water
- 15 Drops Essential Oils of Choice (select essential oils known to have antibacterial properties)
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Mix in a spray bottle, give it a shake to mix.
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Spray on surfaces like door knobs, faucet handles, toilet seats, etc.
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Allow to air dry whenever possible, if not possible wipe with a very clean cloth.
Check out Scratch Mommy Founder Jessica's online herbal boutique for glass bottles, certified organic ingredients, handcrafted skincare goods, and more.
Before the cold and flu season hits your home or before all those big holiday parties and gatherings begin, mix up a batch of this vodka disinfectant spray to help keep all the nasty things at bay.
Comments 10
Thank you. I like that you provide info on the oils
Thanks for sharing – always wanted to know how to do this x
Friendly warning for cat owners: teetrea-oil is highly toxic and fatal to felines.
That is good to know! Thank you 😊
No, do not use vodka. You need at least 60% alcohol—which translates to about 120 proof—to sanitize.
Hi there! That is what we suggest in the recipe 😊
There is a difference between % alcohol and proof – 40% is 80 proof……. I found most vodkas are 80 proof with a 100 proof bottle costing $20.
Did you mean 60 proof?
Hi there! We suggest a vodka that is at least 60% alcohol or 120 proof. I hope this helps you 😊
Can I use flavored vodka??
Hey Martina! If it doesn’t bother you, then sure! Just be sure it is a high proof flavored vodka. 🙂