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Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking soda and washing soda. These two ingredients are the backbone of your homemade OxiClean and will work together to break down stains and odors.
2. Add Liquid Ingredients
Add the hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. The baking soda and washing soda will begin to dissolve in the water and hydrogen peroxide, forming a paste-like consistency. This is normal and helps the stain remover cling to fabrics.
3. Add Essential Oils (Optional)
If you want a pleasant scent, add a few drops of essential oil of your choice. Lavender is a popular option for a soothing aroma, while lemon offers a fresh, citrusy scent. Stir the mixture again to distribute the essential oils evenly.
4. Store the Solution
Transfer the homemade OxiClean solution to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic bottle. Be sure to label the container clearly, especially if you use hydrogen peroxide, as it may lose potency if exposed to light for too long.
How to Use Homemade OxiClean
Now that you’ve made your own stain remover, it’s time to put it to work! Here are a few ways to use your homemade OxiClean to tackle tough stains.
1. For Laundry Stains
To remove stubborn stains from clothes, towels, or linens, add 1/4 cup of your homemade OxiClean to your regular laundry load, along with your usual detergent. You can also apply the solution directly to tough stains before washing. For best results, allow the mixture to sit on the stain for 15-30 minutes before tossing it into the wash.
2. For Carpet Stains
To treat carpet stains, mix 1 tablespoon of your homemade OxiClean with 1 cup of warm water. Pour the solution onto the stain and gently scrub with a clean cloth or sponge. Blot with a dry cloth to lift the stain, then rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.
3. For Upholstery
Use the same solution for cleaning upholstery stains. Test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure the fabric is colorfast. Apply the solution to the stain and gently blot with a cloth. Once the stain is gone, wipe away any residue with a damp cloth.
4. For Grout and Bathroom Surfaces
Homemade OxiClean is effective on grout and bathroom tiles, too! For grout, mix your homemade OxiClean into a paste and apply it to the grout lines. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then scrub with an old toothbrush. Rinse with warm water for a sparkling clean finish.
5. For Dishes and Greasy Pots
The dish soap in the recipe makes this cleaner great for tackling grease. Use it to clean greasy pots and pans by applying a small amount to the surface and scrubbing with a sponge or brush.
Tips for Success with Homemade OxiClean
- Store in a cool, dark place: Hydrogen peroxide can degrade when exposed to light, so it’s important to store your homemade OxiClean in a dark container or in a cabinet away from sunlight.
- Use on fresh stains: For the best results, treat stains as soon as possible. The longer a stain sets, the harder it is to remove, even with a powerful cleaner like OxiClean.
- Test on fabrics: Before applying your homemade cleaner to delicate fabrics, test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
- Adjust as needed: If your homemade OxiClean feels too watery or too thick, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding more water or soda as needed.
Why Homemade OxiClean is a Game-Changer
Making your own Homemade OxiClean is a great way to save money while still getting powerful stain-fighting results. With just a few natural ingredients, you can create an eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaner that works on all sorts of stains and messes, from laundry to carpets to kitchen surfaces. It’s safe, effective, and customizable to your needs.
Next time you’re out of commercial stain removers, skip the store and make your own batch of homemade OxiClean instead. You’ll be amazed at how well it works—and how much money you’ll save in the process!
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