Did you know you can make a household cleaner with natural ingredients? This recipe has been passed down for generations because it’s simple and effective!
The recipe for Vinegar of the Four Thieves has been passed down since the time of the Black Plague when thieves rubbed a mixture of herbs and vinegar on their bodies to protect themselves from death. Any number of herbs can be combined with raw apple cider vinegar to yield an effective household cleaning product. If you happen to have lots of a particular herb on hand feel free to adjust the recipe.
DIY Herbal Cleaner
Vinegar of the Four Thieves is an all-natural, chemical-free cleaner with strong antibacterial properties.
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Ingredients
- 1 handful sage dried or fresh
- 1 handful lavender dried or fresh
- 1 handful rosemary dried or fresh
- 1 handful wormwood dried or fresh
- 1 handful mugwort dried or fresh
- 1 handful mint dried or fresh
- 1 handful rue dried or fresh
- 4-5 cups raw apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Place a handful of each herb in 1/2 gallon jar.
- Pour raw organic apple cider vinegar over the herbs. Allow 2- 4 inches of head space.
- Cover tightly.
- Keep at room temperature for 3-6 weeks.
- Shake jar periodically.
- Strain.
- Pour strained vinegar into spray bottle. Dilute as desired.
I recommend diluting at least 50/50 with either water or white vinegar. The solution can “gum up” and clog the spray bottle without dilution. This works to your advantage, making the recipe last even longer!
Pasteurized apple cider vinegar may be substituted but you will lose the microbial benefit of the raw vinegar. It will still be an effective cleaner.
Don’t have a variety of herbs on hand? Just So offers all 7 herbs in one muslin sachet. Enough for 1 recipe. Visit the Just So online store to purchase the Four Thieves Herbal Blend.
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Where do you buy your raw vinegar for cleaning. I use Braggs for my body…. Wasn’t sure if I could buy a better priced one for cleaning. Thanks Kathy
I buy mine from Azure Standard in bulk. It’s raw just like Braggs. Thrive Market online has Braggs for $2.55, which may be a better price for you, Kathy.
my husband is retired and now has all the housekeeping duties. He’s a vinegar freak when it comes to cleaning. I want to share this with him. Can it be used on carpets and furniture (dogs)?
It depends on how diluted you make this. I haven’t noticed any staining but have not tried it on carpeting or furniture. Maybe try a spot first, Karen.