You’ve been working all week—handling endless to-do lists, cooking dinners, maybe even managing kids or studying. We’ve all been there: by the time the weekend rolls around, the house has started to show a little neglect. There’s that stack of dishes from Wednesday, a layer of dust on the shelves, and the laundry pile is reaching new heights.
But it’s Sunday morning, and there’s something about that quiet, easy start that makes it the perfect day to reset. The house is calm, the sun is streaming through the windows, and it’s time to tackle the cleaning. First up, a good cleaning session is never complete without a scented candle so light up one of our non-toxic soy wax candles, filling the air with a cozy, refreshing scent that makes the whole space feel a little more like a sanctuary.
As the candle flickers, it’s not just about getting rid of the mess; it’s about creating a mood that transforms your home from chaos back to calm. Whether it’s the calm grounding scent of Palo Santo that brings a touch of the outdoors in or the crisp, green notes of Palm Garden that transports you to a breezy Mediterranean day, lighting a candle can be like pressing the “refresh” button on your space.
You put on your favorite playlist, maybe some soulful tunes or a light jazz mix, and let the music flow through the rooms. As you dust, fold, and tidy up, the gentle glow of the candle keeps you company, transforming cleaning into a ritual of self-care.
You’re in the zone and ready to dive into a thorough, feel-good clean. Let’s get started with the surfaces. First things first: grab an amber spray bottle to make your very own non-toxic, all-purpose cleaner. Using an amber bottle helps protect essential oils from light exposure, keeping your cleaner fresher longer.
For this DIY cleaner, you’ll need:
- 500ml water
- About half a glass of white vinegar
- 30 drops of your favorite essential oils—Citrus is always a favourite of mine so grapefruit, orange, lime and lemon work wonders for a fresh, bright aroma, while lavender and eucalyptus add a relaxing touch.
Combine these in the spray bottle and give it a shake. Fantastic for countertops, tables, and just about any surface that needs a refresh. The vinegar naturally cuts through grease and grime, while the essential oils lend a light, pleasant scent.
Once the surfaces are fresh, it’s time to make that kitchen sink shine. A quick scrub with a natural cleaner will leave it looking polished and smelling fresh.
Sparkling Sink Cleaner
For a clean and gleaming sink, here’s a simple, natural recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda
- Juice of a lemon (or a few drops of lemon essential oil)
- ½ cup white vinegar
- 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
- Sprinkle the baking soda around the sink. It works wonders as a gentle abrasive that lifts grime without scratching surfaces.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the baking soda. This combination not only helps cut through grease but also leaves a fresh, clean scent.
- Pour the vinegar over the mixture and let it fizz for a few minutes to to disinfect and loosen any stubborn buildup.
- Scrub with a sponge or cloth, using warm water to rinse. For the final touch, dry with a soft cloth for an added shine.
Naturally Refreshing the Hob
To tackle the hob and remove any grease or food splatters, try this easy DIY cleaner:
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- A few drops of dish soap (non-toxic, plant-based is ideal)
- Warm water
Kitchen done, it’s time to tackle the toilet.
Start with the bowl: pour about half a cup of baking soda into the bowl and follow with a cup of vinegar. Let it bubble and fizz—it’s the natural way of breaking down grime without any harsh chemicals. After a few minutes, scrub and flush. For added fragrance, drop a few drops of your favorite essential oil into the bowl afterward - i'm loving peppermint at the moment.
If you’re looking for eco-friendly toilet cleaner options, brands like Ecover and Method offer biodegradable, plant-based cleaners that are tough on dirt but gentle on the environment. You’ll find these kinds of eco-conscious brands stocked in most supermarkets or online.
Let’s move on to the bedroom—it’s amazing how a few small changes can make this space feel like a whole new sanctuary. Start by throwing open the windows to let in a little fresh air. It’s such a simple step, but letting a light breeze flow through can make a room feel instantly revitalized.
Once the room is aired out, tackle any clutter. Tidying away stray items on surfaces can work wonders in creating a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Then, focus on making the bed. Pull up the sheets, fluff the pillows, and smooth out the duvet—just a few extra moments spent on the bed can set the tone for the whole room, transforming it from functional to inviting.
For the mirrors and any glass surfaces, let’s try a homemade glass cleaner. Here’s a quick recipe:
- 500ml water
- Quarter cup white vinegar
- Quarter cup rubbing alcohol
- 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil (lemon or peppermint adds a fresh, clean scent)
Spray this solution onto glass surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks. It’s a simple, effective mix that leaves mirrors and windows sparkling without any of the chemicals often found in commercial glass cleaners.
With the bed made, the windows open, and surfaces wiped down, the bedroom will feel fresh, peaceful, and ready for a restful evening.
With everything else done, there’s just one final step to bring it all together: a good hoovering. Go over each room, letting the hum of the vacuum serve as the final touch to make your space truly sparkle. There’s something so satisfying about seeing those clean lines on the carpet or floor, knowing you’ve taken care of every little detail.
And… voila! You’re done! Now it’s time to relax and enjoy the cozy ambiance you’ve created. Your candle is still flickering gently in the background, filling the air with that wonderful, warm fragrance, reminding you that this time was well spent. Whether you’re settling in with a book, watching a favorite show, or just soaking up the peace, you can unwind knowing you’ve created a fresh, welcoming space to enjoy the rest of your Sunday afternoon.
You can grab yourself a beautiful, luxury, non toxic soy wax candle perfect for those self care sundays here
