Eucalyptus oil is an inexpensive and versatile item. It can be used for many cleaning tasks around the house, from the oven and fridge to the shower and laundry. Here are amazing and simple ways to use eucalyptus oil in the home.
1. Cleaning stainless steel
If you’re battling stubborn grime and build-up on your stainless steel, whether it’s a cooktop, tapware, a fridge or cupboards, a small amount of eucalyptus oil will help get it clean. Just add a few drops to a wet cloth and wipe over the surface, then dry it off with a clean microfibre cloth to avoid streaking.
2. Removing sticky residue
If you’ve ever tried to remove a sticky label or decal, you’ll know how annoying that residue can be. Eucalyptus oil is a very effective adhesive remover, particularly on the glass. It can be used straight in its concentrated form to target sticky areas, then just rinse off with water.
3. Floor cleaner
With its natural disinfectant properties, eucalyptus oil works well as an eco-friendly floor cleaner. Simply add about 20 drops to a bucket of hot water, or straight into the water section of your spray mop, and mop the floors as normal. They’ll be shiny and the fragrance of the eucalyptus will leave the room smelling fresh.
4. Combat mould and mildew
Not only can eucalyptus oil remove existing mould and mildew, it can also help prevent its recurrence in prone areas. Add a few drops of the oil to a cup of hot water and wipe down all affected surfaces – this could be in the shower, bathroom tiling or fridge shelving and containers. The strong scent will remove mouldy odours, too.
5. Laundry cleaner
If you’ve got clothes, sheets or blankets with a soiled or musty smell, the naturally fragrant oil will freshen up your laundry and help clean it at the same time. Just add about 20 drops to your washing cycle along with laundry detergent for a refreshing finish.
6. Deter Rats
Have you spotted rats in or around your home? Use eucalyptus oil to deter them from hanging around!
A 2014 study found that rats largely avoided eating in areas that had been treated with eucalyptus oil. You can use this effect to your advantage by adding drops of eucalyptus oil to cotton balls, then placing the cotton balls in areas where rats have been spotted.
7. Fight Lice
According to the results of a 2017 study, eucalyptus oil showed promising results as a treatment for lice. A solution containing eucalyptus and tea tree oil was 100% effective against lice and eggs after a single application in a randomized trial.
To fight lice, mix 2 ounces of olive oil with 15-20 drops of eucalyptus oil and apply the oil mixture to the scalp. Cover and leave it on for at least 12 hours, then comb, shampoo, rinse, and shampoo again.
8. Alleviate Headaches
Eucalyptus essential oil can help ease the pain and tension of headaches caused by sinus pressure, stress, and exhaustion. Add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil to your diffuser, or apply it topically by putting a drop or two on the back of your neck.
9. Soothe Irritated Skin
Eucalyptus oil has several properties that can help soothe irritated skin, including antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil to a cotton ball, then swipe it over minor skin irritations (such as shallow wounds, bug bites, blisters, etc.) to promote quick healing.
