Passing it On

Since my sons are nine and eleven, I figured they needed more chores. I have always made it a point to dust their rooms for them. Now, I'm passing on the responsibility to them. Since I have began making my own cleaning products, I feel a little bit better about them handling the cleaning supplies. I have even let my nine year-old help me make some of these concoctions.

As a matter of fact, just today he made his own body wash before he took a shower. The boys are learning to make useful items, they know what they are using to clean, and they think it's fun. Not only that, but they are obviously learning that cleaning is a big ol' pain in the ass. Score for me! They will never take for granted the fact that cleaning is work and when someone makes a mess it needs cleaned up.

No, I'm not delusional enough to believe this will fix their messy ways. I was a kid once and I know how it feels to have my own kid-friendly space where everything is where I want it to go. Same as today, I'm just a little taller and have more expensive stuff.

If you're looking for an all-purpose cleaner that can be used to dust and clean (and can be used by your kids) here's the recipe I use:

1 squirt bottle (18 oz bottles at the Dollar Tree)
Castile Soap (Love Dr. Bronner's - you can find it at Kroger)
Essential Oils (Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Lemon - Sleeping Dragons Company on Ebay)
Water

Add 1-2 tablespoons of Castile Soap to your squirt bottle, followed by 6 drops each of Lavender Essential Oil, Eucalyptus Essential Oil, and Lemon Essential Oil (you can experiment with different oils, but this is a good disinfecting mix that smells great). Fill the bottle with water and gently shake to mix. If you're going to use this to dust, you can spray it directly on the surface or onto the towel. After the mixture sits for a day or two, you will see the ingredients separate. Be sure to give it a gentle shake before you use it each time. Also, make sure to label the bottle so you, and others, know what they are grabbing. I always list the essential oils I used on the label, so I can remember which ones I used.

Well, there you go. It's an easy place to start to get your home a little cleaner and a great way to involve your kids in the process. Good luck!

NB