Unlock the Power of Clean: Making Your Own On Guard Concentrate

Maintaining a clean and healthy home environment is more important than ever. But often, achieving this goal involves harsh chemicals that can be detrimental to our well-being and the planet. Enter the world of natural cleaning, specifically, replicating the effectiveness of products like doTERRA’s On Guard Concentrate. While we cannot create an exact duplicate (proprietary blends are closely guarded secrets!), understanding the core ingredients and their functions allows us to create a powerful and effective homemade version that’s both budget-friendly and environmentally conscious. This article will guide you through the process of crafting your own potent cleaning concentrate inspired by On Guard, exploring the ingredients, their benefits, and step-by-step instructions to help you achieve a sparkling clean home, naturally.

Table of Contents

Understanding On Guard’s Cleaning Powerhouse

To effectively replicate the benefits of On Guard Concentrate, it’s crucial to understand what makes it so effective. At its core, On Guard is a blend of essential oils known for their potent cleaning and protective properties. These oils work synergistically to disinfect, deodorize, and provide a refreshing aroma. Let’s delve into the key components that contribute to its cleaning prowess.

The Core Essential Oils: A Symphony of Clean

While the exact ratios are proprietary, the essential oils typically found in On Guard and similar blends include:

Wild Orange: A powerful degreaser and antiseptic, Wild Orange essential oil adds a cheerful citrus aroma while effectively cutting through grease and grime. Its high limonene content contributes significantly to its cleaning abilities.
Clove Bud: Known for its potent antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, Clove Bud essential oil is a robust addition to any cleaning blend. It is a strong oil, so using it in moderation is key.
Cinnamon Bark: Another powerful antimicrobial and antifungal oil, Cinnamon Bark essential oil adds a warm, spicy note to the blend. Like Clove, it’s a potent oil that should be used sparingly.
Eucalyptus: Renowned for its respiratory benefits and antiseptic properties, Eucalyptus essential oil helps to disinfect surfaces and freshen the air. Its invigorating scent is a welcome addition to any cleaning routine.
Rosemary: With its antibacterial and antifungal properties, Rosemary essential oil not only cleanses but also adds a refreshing, herbaceous aroma to the blend. It also has invigorating qualities.

These five essential oils form the foundation of On Guard’s cleaning power. Their combined antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties make them an effective alternative to harsh chemical cleaners. Understanding each oil’s unique contribution is vital for crafting a comparable homemade concentrate.

Beyond Essential Oils: The Supporting Cast

Essential oils, while powerful, need a supporting cast to create a usable and effective cleaning concentrate. These supporting ingredients help to emulsify the oils in water, boost cleaning power, and create a stable and long-lasting product.

Castile Soap: A vegetable-based soap, Castile soap is a gentle yet effective cleanser. It helps to lift dirt and grime from surfaces, allowing the essential oils to do their work. Opt for an unscented variety to avoid interfering with the essential oil blend’s aroma.
Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate): Washing soda is a powerful cleaning agent that helps to boost the effectiveness of the essential oils and Castile soap. It is particularly effective at removing stubborn stains and grime. Note: Washing soda is different from baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).
Borax (Sodium Borate): Another natural mineral, Borax enhances the cleaning power of the blend and helps to control mold and mildew. While its safety has been debated, it’s generally considered safe for cleaning when used properly and with precautions (avoid ingestion and prolonged skin contact).
Distilled Water: Using distilled water is crucial to ensure the longevity and stability of your concentrate. Tap water can contain minerals and impurities that can react with the other ingredients and reduce the concentrate’s effectiveness.

These ingredients work synergistically with the essential oils to create a potent and effective cleaning concentrate. Understanding their roles is essential for creating a successful homemade version.

Crafting Your Own On Guard Inspired Cleaning Concentrate: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we understand the key ingredients and their functions, let’s move on to the practical steps of creating your own On Guard-inspired cleaning concentrate. This recipe provides a starting point, and you can adjust the ratios to suit your preferences and cleaning needs. Always perform a spot test on an inconspicuous area before using the concentrate on delicate surfaces.

Gathering Your Supplies: Setting the Stage for Success

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. This will streamline the process and prevent any frustrating interruptions.

Essential Oils: Wild Orange, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary essential oils. Purchase high-quality, 100% pure essential oils from a reputable source.
Castile Soap: Unscented liquid Castile soap.
Washing Soda: Sodium Carbonate
Borax: Sodium Borate. Optional, but enhances cleaning.
Distilled Water: For optimal results.
Glass Bottles: Dark glass bottles are ideal for storing essential oils, as they protect them from light degradation. Choose a bottle size that suits your needs (e.g., 16 oz or 32 oz).
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for a consistent and effective concentrate.
Funnel: To avoid spills when transferring the concentrate to bottles.
Labels: To clearly label your bottles with the contents and date.

Having these supplies readily available will make the process smooth and efficient.

The Recipe: Bringing it All Together

This recipe creates a concentrated cleaning solution that can be diluted for various cleaning tasks. Remember to always dilute the concentrate before use.

Ingredients:

2 cups Distilled Water
1/4 cup Unscented Castile Soap
2 tablespoons Washing Soda
1 tablespoon Borax (Optional)
30 drops Wild Orange Essential Oil
15 drops Clove Bud Essential Oil
10 drops Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil
20 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
15 drops Rosemary Essential Oil

Instructions:

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a clean bowl, combine the washing soda and borax (if using).
Dissolve Dry Ingredients: Gradually add a small amount of distilled water to the dry ingredients, stirring until they are completely dissolved. This helps prevent clumping when you add the mixture to the larger volume of water.
Add Remaining Water: Pour the dissolved dry ingredients into a larger container and add the remaining distilled water. Stir well to combine.
Incorporate Castile Soap: Gently add the Castile soap to the water mixture. Stir slowly to avoid creating excessive bubbles.
Add Essential Oils: Carefully add the essential oils, one at a time, stirring gently after each addition.
Transfer to Bottles: Using a funnel, carefully pour the finished concentrate into your dark glass bottles.
Label and Store: Label each bottle clearly with the contents and date. Store the concentrate in a cool, dark place.

Dilution Ratios: Tailoring the Concentrate to Your Needs

The beauty of a cleaning concentrate lies in its versatility. You can dilute it to create different cleaning solutions for various tasks. Here are some suggested dilution ratios:

All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of concentrate per 16 oz of water in a spray bottle. This is ideal for cleaning countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.
Glass Cleaner: Mix 1 teaspoon of concentrate per 16 oz of water in a spray bottle. For streak-free results, use a microfiber cloth.
Floor Cleaner: Mix 1/4 cup of concentrate per gallon of water. This is suitable for most floor types, but always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Pour 1/4 cup of concentrate directly into the toilet bowl, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrub and flush.
Laundry Booster: Add 1/4 cup of concentrate to your washing machine along with your regular laundry detergent. This will help to boost cleaning power and add a fresh scent.

Adjust the dilution ratios to suit your specific needs and preferences. Remember to always start with a lower concentration and increase it as needed.

Tips and Considerations for a Superior Cleaning Concentrate

Creating an effective and safe cleaning concentrate requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. Here are some tips and considerations to ensure your success:

Essential Oil Quality: The Foundation of Effectiveness

The quality of your essential oils directly impacts the effectiveness of your cleaning concentrate. Always opt for 100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils from a reputable source. Avoid oils that contain additives, fillers, or synthetic fragrances. High-quality essential oils will have a more potent aroma and greater therapeutic benefits.

Storage: Preserving Potency and Longevity

Proper storage is crucial for preserving the potency and longevity of your cleaning concentrate. Store your concentrate in dark glass bottles in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. This will help to prevent the essential oils from degrading and maintain the concentrate’s effectiveness.

Safety Precautions: Protecting Yourself and Your Home

While natural cleaning products are generally safer than conventional chemical cleaners, it’s still important to take safety precautions.

Keep out of reach of children and pets: Essential oils can be harmful if ingested.
Avoid contact with eyes: Essential oils can irritate the eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Test on an inconspicuous area: Before using the concentrate on delicate surfaces, test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
Use gloves if you have sensitive skin: Some essential oils can irritate sensitive skin.
Do not mix with bleach: Mixing essential oils with bleach can create harmful fumes.

Adjusting the Recipe: Customizing for Your Needs

The recipe provided is a starting point, and you can adjust it to suit your specific needs and preferences. Experiment with different essential oil combinations and ratios to find a blend that you love. You can also adjust the concentration of the concentrate by increasing or decreasing the amount of essential oils. Remember to always start with a lower concentration and increase it as needed.

The Benefits of Natural Cleaning: A Healthier Home and Planet

Switching to natural cleaning products like your homemade On Guard-inspired concentrate offers numerous benefits for your health, your home, and the planet.

Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: A Breath of Fresh Air

Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our health. These chemicals can cause respiratory irritation, skin allergies, and even more serious health problems. Natural cleaning products, on the other hand, are made with safer, plant-based ingredients that are less likely to cause adverse health effects.

Environmentally Friendly: Protecting Our Planet

Conventional cleaning products can also be harmful to the environment. They often contain chemicals that pollute our waterways and contribute to air pollution. Natural cleaning products are made with biodegradable ingredients that are less harmful to the environment.

Cost-Effective: Saving Money While Cleaning

While some natural cleaning products can be more expensive than conventional cleaners, making your own cleaning concentrate can be very cost-effective. You can save money by buying the ingredients in bulk and making a large batch of concentrate.

Aromatherapy Benefits: Enhancing Your Mood

Essential oils have numerous therapeutic benefits, including mood-boosting and stress-reducing properties. Using a cleaning concentrate infused with essential oils can help to create a more pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in your home. The aroma of the essential oils can also help to uplift your mood and improve your overall well-being.

By making your own On Guard-inspired cleaning concentrate, you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally friendly home. You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re using safe and effective products that are good for you, your family, and the planet.

What are the primary benefits of using On Guard concentrate?

On Guard concentrate offers a powerful, natural way to clean your home without harsh chemicals. It leverages the potent properties of the On Guard protective blend, providing effective cleaning and sanitizing capabilities. This blend is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it ideal for tackling everyday messes and germs, while also leaving behind a pleasant, natural aroma. You can rest assured that your family is not exposed to harmful toxins commonly found in commercial cleaning products.

Moreover, using On Guard concentrate can be more cost-effective in the long run. A small amount of concentrate diluted with water yields a significant amount of cleaning solution, reducing the need to purchase multiple expensive commercial cleaners. The versatility of On Guard concentrate also means you can use it for various cleaning tasks around the house, further simplifying your cleaning routine and minimizing clutter.

How do I make my own On Guard concentrate cleaning solution?

Creating your own On Guard cleaning solution is remarkably simple. Start with a clean, empty spray bottle. A 16-ounce spray bottle is a common and convenient size. Then, add approximately 1-2 tablespoons of On Guard concentrate to the bottle, depending on the desired strength of your cleaning solution.

Next, fill the remainder of the spray bottle with distilled or purified water, leaving a little space at the top. Securely screw on the spray nozzle and gently shake the bottle to thoroughly mix the concentrate and water. Your On Guard cleaning solution is now ready to use for various cleaning tasks around your home.

Can On Guard concentrate be used on all surfaces?

While On Guard concentrate is generally safe and effective, it’s always wise to exercise caution, particularly when using it on delicate or porous surfaces. Perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface. This allows you to assess any potential reactions or discoloration. Surfaces such as marble, granite, and certain types of wood may require more gentle cleaning solutions.

Generally, On Guard concentrate is safe for use on most non-porous surfaces like countertops, sinks, tiles, and glass. Its natural ingredients are less likely to cause damage or leave behind harsh chemical residues. Remember to always dilute the concentrate properly according to the recommended instructions to minimize the risk of any adverse effects.

What is the shelf life of homemade On Guard concentrate cleaning solution?

The shelf life of your homemade On Guard concentrate cleaning solution is primarily influenced by the quality of the water used and how well it’s stored. If you use distilled water and keep it in a cool, dark place, your solution should remain effective for about 1-2 months. The essential oils in On Guard have natural preservative qualities that contribute to its longevity.

However, over time, the essential oils may start to degrade or the water may become contaminated with bacteria if not stored properly. If you notice any changes in the solution’s color, smell, or consistency, it’s best to discard it and make a fresh batch. Making small batches more frequently ensures you’re always using a potent and effective cleaning solution.

Are there any safety precautions I should take when using On Guard concentrate?

Even though On Guard concentrate is a natural product, it’s crucial to take certain safety precautions. While it’s generally safe for topical use when diluted, avoid direct contact with your eyes and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. It’s also a good practice to wear gloves when cleaning, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Furthermore, keep On Guard concentrate and any cleaning solutions made from it out of reach of children and pets. Although it’s made from natural ingredients, ingestion could cause digestive upset. Store the concentrate in a secure location, clearly labeled, to prevent accidental misuse. As with any cleaning product, always read and follow the label instructions carefully.

Can I customize my On Guard concentrate cleaning solution with other essential oils?

While On Guard concentrate already contains a powerful blend of protective essential oils, you can certainly customize your cleaning solution by adding a few drops of other oils to enhance its properties or scent. Adding lemon essential oil can boost its cleaning power and provide a refreshing citrus aroma. Tea tree oil can further enhance its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

However, it’s essential to use essential oils that are safe for cleaning and compatible with the surfaces you’ll be cleaning. Avoid adding oils that could potentially stain or damage certain materials. Start with a small amount of the additional oil and test the solution in an inconspicuous area before widespread use. Be mindful of creating a blend that is safe and effective for your specific needs.

What are some alternative uses for On Guard concentrate besides general cleaning?

Beyond general cleaning, On Guard concentrate can be utilized in various creative and practical ways around your home. You can add a few drops to your laundry detergent to boost its cleaning power and disinfect your clothes. It’s particularly useful for cleaning heavily soiled items or laundry from sick individuals. Also consider adding a small amount to your dishwasher for a more thorough clean and to help eliminate lingering odors.

Furthermore, On Guard concentrate can be used to create a natural hand sanitizer. Dilute a small amount with aloe vera gel and water to create a convenient and effective hand cleanser. This provides a chemical-free alternative to commercial hand sanitizers. Just be sure to properly research and test any DIY application prior to consistent use.