Discover the surprising benefits of cleaning with olive oil – the ultimate guide

Cleaning your home with olive oil: Introduction

Are you tired of using harsh chemicals to clean your home? Do you want to learn a more natural, eco-friendly approach to cleaning that can also save you money? Look no further than your kitchen pantry, because olive oil is here to save the day!

Cleaning with olive oil is a simple and effective method that has been used for centuries. Not only is it a safer and more sustainable option, but it can also produce stunning results. From restoring your wooden furniture to giving your stainless steel appliances a sparkling finish, olive oil is a versatile cleaning agent that you won’t want to overlook.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using olive oil for cleaning, as well as provide you with practical tips and tricks for mastering this skill. You’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it can be to clean with olive oil once you give it a try. So, let’s get started and make your home shine like never before!

What makes olive such a good cleaner?

Olive oil is an effective cleaner because it is non-toxic, biodegradable and has antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also a natural emollient, so it is gentle on surfaces and won’t strip away the protective coating, like harsh chemicals can. Olive oil is also great for polishing and removing dirt, grime and grease.

Other cleaning products

Are you looking to discover other cleaning products and their use cases? Read our guides on cleaning with lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, bleach, hydrogen peroxide, essential oils, castile soap, salt and cornstarch. Click the links above and master these great cleaning solutions.

Benefits of using olive oil for cleaning

1. Natural and Chemical-Free: Olive oil is a natural and chemical-free alternative to commercial cleaning products, which can be harsh and contain harmful chemicals.
2. Versatile: Olive oil can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks, from polishing metals and removing rust to cleaning wooden furniture and conditioning leather surfaces.
3. Safe for Surfaces: Olive oil is safe to use on most surfaces, including stainless steel, wood, and leather, without causing damage or discoloration.
4. Effective: Olive oil is an effective cleaner that can remove stains, dirt, and grime, as well as add shine and luster to surfaces.
5. Eco-Friendly: Using olive oil for cleaning is an eco-friendly choice as it is a renewable resource and biodegradable.
6. Cost-Effective: Olive oil is an inexpensive and readily available cleaning solution, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to reduce their cleaning expenses.

Negatives of cleaning with lemon juice

One of the primary drawbacks of using olive oil for cleaning is the potential for dye staining. When used to clean certain surfaces such as upholstery, furniture, and carpets, olive oil can transfer onto the surface and leave behind an oily residue. This can result in discolouration and staining of the material. In some cases, this can be difficult to remove, so it’s important to test the product on an inconspicuous area prior to use.

Another issue when using olive oil for cleaning is the potential for residue buildup. It can be difficult to completely remove the oil from the surface, leaving behind a greasy film. This can attract dirt and dust, making it more difficult to keep the area clean. Additionally, olive oil can be difficult to completely remove, making it difficult to remove odours from surfaces. This can be particularly problematic if you’re cleaning in an area with strong odours, such as a kitchen or bathroom.

What to mix with olive oil to make it effective cleaner

Mixing olive oil with ingredients like baking soda and white vinegar can make it a powerful and effective cleaner, akin to a superhero fighting off dirt and grime.

Olive oil combined with baking soda can provide a gentle, abrasive scrub that is great for removing residue off of surfaces. White vinegar can be mixed with the oil to create a solution that can be used to cut through grease, dirt, and grime.

When mixed with a few drops of essential oils, this combination can be used to make a pleasant smelling cleaning solution. 

What not to mix with olive oil

As much as olive oil is incredibly effective for grime removal, odour elimination, and stain removal, it should never be mixed with certain substances.

For instance, if you were to mix olive oil with water, it would create an emulsion that would be difficult to clean up. This is because olive oil and water do not mix, so the oil will separate and float to the top.

Another thing to avoid when mixing with olive oil is bleach. Bleaching agents are highly caustic and can cause damage to surfaces, so it’s not a safe option to mix with olive oil. Bleach can also be corrosive, so it will break down the protective layer of the surface where it is applied and make it more prone to scratches. Additionally, it can leave behind a strong smell that can be difficult to remove.

Mixing olive oil with strong acids or alcohols can also be hazardous. Combining olive oil with acids or alcohols may create a reaction that can be harmful to both you and the surface you are cleaning. 

What not to clean with olive oil

You should be aware that using olive oil for cleaning isn’t always a good idea – in fact, it’s estimated that over 80% of the time it’s not the right choice.

Many cleaning alternatives are far more effective and less likely to cause environmental damage or allergic reactions. Petroleum-based products, like WD-40 or mineral spirits, are far better suited for cleaning tasks such as removing rust or sticky build-up.

Olive oil should not be used on metals, as it can create a sticky residue that can be difficult to remove.

Olive oil should also be avoided when cleaning items that are prone to staining. Its natural oils can penetrate porous materials and cause discoloration. It should also be avoided when cleaning items that may be damaged by oils, such as certain types of fabrics and upholstery. If you’re unsure of how a particular material will react to olive oil, it’s best to use a cleaner specifically designed for that material.

How to use olive oil for cleaning

1. All-purpose cleaner: Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil in a spray bottle. Use it to clean surfaces like countertops, floors, and bathroom fixtures.
2. Air freshener: Add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and use it to freshen up the air in your home.
3. Carpet deodorizer: Mix baking soda and a few drops of essential oil, then sprinkle the mixture over your carpet. Let it sit for a few minutes before vacuuming it up.
4. Disinfectant: Add 10-15 drops of essential oil to a bucket of hot water and use it to mop floors or clean surfaces.
5. Laundry: Add a few drops of essential oil to your laundry detergent or add them to a dryer ball to freshen up your clothes.
6. Glass cleaner: Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 10-15 drops of essential oil in a spray bottle. Use it to clean windows and mirrors.

Olive oil household uses

Kitchen:

• Protect Wooden Cutting Boards, Salad Bowls, and Utensils
• Stop Sticking
• Slow Tarnish
• Remove Sticky Labels

Bedroom and Bathroom:

• Keep Pearls Lustrous
• Remove Tight Rings
• Unstick a Zipper
• Soften Cuticles and Moisturize Skin
• Control Frizz
• Remove Makeup
• Remove Tough Stains From Hair and Skin

Around the House:

• Remove Water Rings and Scratches
• Condition Leather Surfaces
• Prevent Mosquitoes
• Protect Garden Tools
• Invigorate Plants
• Remove gum
• Remove stickers and sticker residue
• Remove paint stains with olive oil
• Homemade furniture polish

For Specific Items:

• Stainless Steel Appliances: Shine Stainless Steel, Spotty, Smeared, or Tarnished Stainless Steel, Clean stainless steel with olive oil
• Leather Chairs: Condition leather, Take care of your leather goods
• Kitchen Cabinets: Make cleaning measuring cups easy
• Cast Iron Pans: Polishing metals and removing rust with olive oil from Spain
• Silverware: Protect Razor Blades
• Shoes and Boots: Shine Shoes and Boots

Miscellaneous:

• Fix a creaky door hinge
• Dusty Wood Furniture
• Dull Furniture
• Paint or Gum on Skin or in Hair

Conclusion

In conclusion, cleaning with lemon juice is a simple, effective, and eco-friendly way to keep your home looking and smelling fresh. We hope this article has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to try out this natural cleaning method.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your cleaning needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of experts is always ready to help you achieve a clean and healthy living space. Thank you for reading, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.