Essential oils are all the rage these days. Here's a guide to essential oil solutions for green cleaning and healthy living.

• Lemon

Combine 10 drops of lemon oil with 1/2 cup of olive oil to create a natural wood or leather polish. Create a fridge deodorizer by combining 2 cups of baking soda and 20-30 drops of lemon oil in the baking soda box. Replace the mixture every 3-4 months. 

• Rosemary

Mix 1 tablespoon of vodka, 6 tablespoons of filtered water, and 10-40 drops of rosemary to create a fresh room spray. Spritz the mixture on linens and throughout any room to spread a natural, fresh scent.

• Lavender

This calming essential oil is a natural antibacterial. Create an all-purpose cleaner by combining 4-5 drops of lavender oil in an 8-ounce spray bottle of equal parts white vinegar and water.  

• Tea Tree

If your family struggles with fleas, lice or other pests, try a homemade bug-deterrent.  Add 10-15 drops of tee tree oil to 8 ounces of water and spray on doormats, inside and outside entryways, and pet bedding.

• Peppermint

Clean sinks and tubs with a 1/2 cup of baking soda, a squirt of castile soap, and 10-15 drops of peppermint oil. This cleansing scrub is safe to clean ceramic surfaces that your family uses daily without worrying about harsh chemical residue being left behind.

• Cinnamon Leaf

Fight off mold or mildew growing in the damp, dark corners of your home with cinnamon leaf. Mix 2 cups of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil, and 10 drops of cinnamon leaf oil. Shake well and spray on mold and mildew.

• Eucalyptus

Detox your mattress and kill any dust mites by mixing 2 cups of baking soda and 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil. Sprinkle the mixture on the mattress and let sit for 24-48 hours. This will also reduce moisture and leave behind a calming scent.