Clean The Car, Save The Environment

I'm one of those people who loves a clean car, but hates putting all of those chemicals into the ground.  There are natural, mass-produced products out there, but they're out of my budget, and I hate having to buy a product that only has maybe one use.  A big fan of having multi-use products, I came up with my own formulas for a natural carwash!

You'll need: 

• a gallon of water
• about 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 20 drops of essential oil (can be any you want; feel free to set a mood)

Combine all in a bucket, throw in a sponge or rag, and get to scrubbin'! 

Next, we wax.  You'll need:

• 3 tbsp beeswax (could also use soy wax)
• 3 tbsp carnauba wax
• 1 cup linseed oil
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 10 drops citrus essential oil (I recommend lemon or orange)

In a double-boiler, melt the waxes and linseed oil.  Remove from heat, stir in the essential oils, and pour into a coffee can or other container. (NOTE: Please be sure you choose a container that can handle the heat, so not plastic.)  Let this sit until it's completely setup, 1-2 days depending on the humidity in your area.   Once it's setup, you can either turn the wax out of the can, and apply directly to the car, or use a rag to get some wax and apply this way.  Once waxed, dip a different cloth into the lemon juice, and squeeze dry.  Buff to a shine. 

And as long as I'm actually in the mood, I guess I should probably clean the interior as well.  Now personally, I love the way Armor All makes the car LOOK, but hate the greasy feel and that weird smell.  So here's my alternative; it's natural but will still help to restore the dashboard.  You'll need:

• 2 parts water
• 1 part murphy's oil soap (or similar)
• 15 drops cedar essential oil (or other, if you like)

Combine in a spray bottle and shake well.  Spray on the dashboard and other vinyl parts of your car (think doors and windows) and wipe with a cloth.  

Last but not least, we have to do the windows.  I hate this part the worst, because you're spraying some sort of window cleaner in the interior of the car, making yourself feel like you've been smoke-bombed, and is it just me or does it ALWAYS create horrible streaks?!  Here's my solution to this; you'll need:

• 3 cups vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 15 drops lemon essential oil (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well to combine.  Spray on and wipe off with either paper towels or a chamois.  You will smell the vinegar at first, but it fades quickly, and this formula is amazing!  Completely streak-free with very little effort. Bonus: This formula helps to reduce frost buildup in the winter months.

Happy cleaning :)

Namaste - 

Candace

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