Eucalyptus Oil For Cleaning (6 Surprising Uses)
If you’ve ever caught a whiff of eucalyptus, you know how refreshing and clean it smells.
But did you know that this powerful essential oil is not just for soothing colds or making your home smell amazing? Eucalyptus oil is a great cleaner. It’s natural, versatile, and can tackle everything from mold to grime.
In this post, I’ll share my favorite ways to use eucalyptus oil for cleaning around the house.
Why Is Eucalyptus Oil Great For Cleaning?
Well, it’s a mix of its natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
Eucalyptus oil has been used for centuries for its medicinal and cleaning benefits, and it’s no surprise why. It can tackle germs, bacteria, and mold without needing harsh chemicals.
Plus, it leaves a crisp, clean scent behind that freshens up any space.
Perhaps the biggest win is that eucalyptus oil is a natural alternative to harsh chemicals.
I've got kids and pets running around, so I'm always looking for effective cleaners that won't harm them. Eucalyptus oil fits the bill perfectly. It is derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, so it’s a natural, biodegradable solution.
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And it's powerful enough to help you clean, but gentle enough for everyday use.
How To Use Eucalyptus Oil For Cleaning
Before jumping into the different ways to use eucalyptus oil for cleaning, let's talk basics.
Eucalyptus oil is super concentrated, so you only need a few drops to get the job done. Always dilute it properly – this isn't one of those "more is better" situations. You'll also want to store your DIY cleaners in dark glass bottles if possible. Light can break down essential oils over time.
Now, let’s break down six awesome ways you can use eucalyptus oil to clean your home.
#1 All-Purpose Cleaner
This is my everyday workhorse. I use it on practically everything. It's fantastic for wiping down countertops, tables, appliances, and even floors.
To make it, mix:
1 cup distilled water
1 cup white vinegar
10-15 drops eucalyptus oil
The vinegar helps dissolve dirt while the eucalyptus oil adds disinfecting power.
If you're dealing with really greasy surfaces (hello, stovetops after frying chicken!), add a teaspoon of castile soap for extra grease-cutting power.
Pour everything into a spray bottle, give it a shake, and you're good to go! Just spray it on surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth. The vinegar smell dissipates quickly, leaving only the fresh eucalyptus scent behind.
One quick note – avoid using this on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite. The vinegar can etch the surface over time. For everything else, spray away!
Also Read: What NOT To Use On Acrylic Tubs
#2 Bathroom Scrub
Bathrooms, especially the shower, are notorious for getting mold and mildew. The humidity and moisture make it the perfect breeding ground for these little guys.
Luckily, eucalyptus oil has natural anti-fungal properties that deal with this.
This scrub works amazingly well on grout lines, shower doors, and anywhere else mildew tends to appear. Here's how to make it:
Mix together:
½ cup baking soda
1-2 tablespoons liquid soap
10 drops eucalyptus oil
Just enough water to form a paste
The baking soda provides gentle abrasion while the eucalyptus oil tackles the mold.
Apply it with a scrub brush or old toothbrush, focusing on problem areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing, then rinse thoroughly.
I make a small batch of this every month for regular bathroom maintenance. It keeps the mildew at bay and helps my white grout actually stay white!
#3 Glass/Mirror Cleaner
We all know how streaky glass and mirrors can get, right?
Eucalyptus oil is great for cleaning glass surfaces. The oil’s properties not only clean the surface but also prevent fingerprints and smudges from reappearing too quickly.
Here's what you need:
1 cup distilled water
¼ cup rubbing alcohol
5 drops eucalyptus oil
The alcohol helps the cleaner evaporate quickly and prevents streaks. The eucalyptus oil cuts through grime and fingerprints.
Mix everything in a spray bottle and use it with a lint-free cloth for amazing results.
My favorite hack? Use this cleaner on stainless steel appliances too! It removes fingerprints and water spots beautifully, leaving a nice shine without any greasy residue.
#4 Carpet & Upholstery Freshener
If your carpet or couch needs a little freshening up, eucalyptus oil is perfect for the job.
It’s known for its deodorizing abilities and can help neutralize odors from pets, food spills, or just general use. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use on fabric, so it won’t damage your furniture or carpet.
To make this, simply mix:
½ cup baking soda
10 drops eucalyptus oil
Sprinkle this mixture onto carpets or rugs and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then vacuum it up!
The baking soda absorbs odors while the eucalyptus oil leaves behind a clean, fresh scent.
For fabric couches or chairs, use a sifter to apply a light dusting, let it sit, then vacuum thoroughly. My dog's favorite spot on the couch has never smelled better!
Also Read: House Smells Like Skunk
#5 Air Freshener
Who doesn’t love a fresh-smelling home? But instead of using artificial air fresheners packed with chemicals, you can create your own natural air freshener using eucalyptus oil.
The scent is crisp, calming, and purifying. It’ll leave your space smelling like a spa!
To make an air freshener, add 10–15 drops of eucalyptus oil to a small bowl of water. Set it on a counter or a windowsill, and let the scent fill the room.
Alternatively, you can also mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with water in a spray bottle. Spritz it around your space, and instantly, you’ll have a room that smells fresh and clean.
#6 Pest Control
This one’s a bit of a surprise, but eucalyptus oil can actually help with pest control.
If you’re dealing with ants, spiders, or other pesky bugs, eucalyptus oil can help keep them at bay. Insects dislike the strong scent which makes it a natural and safe way to keep them out of your home.
Soak a few cotton balls in eucalyptus oil and place them in strategic locations – near doorways, in cabinets, along baseboards, in corners of basements.
Replace them every week or so as the scent fades.
What Not To Mix With Eucalyptus Oil
As with any essential oil, there are a few things you should keep in mind when using eucalyptus oil.
First, don’t mix it with bleach or ammonia—these chemicals can react and produce harmful fumes.
It’s also important to never use pure eucalyptus oil directly on your skin. Always dilute it with water or a carrier oil to avoid irritation.
Eucalyptus oil should also be kept out of reach of children and pets, as it can be toxic in large amounts.
Bottom Line
Eucalyptus oil might just be the most versatile cleaning product you never knew you needed.
I love knowing that I'm cleaning my home without harsh chemicals. My surfaces shine, my air smells fresh, and everything feels cleaner. It's a simple swap that makes a big difference.
Give these recipes a try! Start with the all-purpose cleaner and see what you think. I bet you'll be hooked on the clean scent and impressive results.
Your home will thank you, your nose will thank you, and Mother Earth will thank you too.