Utilized saltwater for floor cleaning.
In the realm of traditional Eastern medicine practices, salt has long been used to cleanse the energy of spaces. This property of salt, valued for its simplicity and effectiveness, finds a modern application in home cleaning, particularly in humid environments.
A saltwater solution, made by dissolving a tablespoon of regular coarse salt (either rock or sea salt) in a bucket of about ten liters of water, is a natural and effective cleaner for floors. The antimicrobial properties of salt help reduce bacteria and some germs on surfaces, creating an environment that inhibits microbial growth. As a result, the solution can clean and deodorize floors without harsh chemicals.
The benefits of using a saltwater solution for floor cleaning are numerous. For one, it offers effective disinfection, with some saltwater-based solutions proven to have high germ kill rates (up to 99.999%). This makes it an ideal choice for sanitizing floors and other surfaces.
Additionally, the solution is safe and eco-friendly, avoiding harmful chemicals and making it safer for people, pets, and the environment. It can be used on various floor types, including tile, laminate, wood (with caution to avoid water marks), and other surfaces without harsh effects.
Saltwater also helps neutralize odors during cleaning, adding to its appeal as a natural cleaner.
The saltwater solution works by creating a hypertonic environment that dehydrates and kills bacteria and other microorganisms. It can also help loosen dirt and grime for easier removal. Products with saltwater solutions sometimes include additional active ingredients to enhance disinfectant properties, but even simple saltwater alone offers mild antimicrobial effects.
However, it's important to note that saltwater solutions should not be left on untreated wood or porous surfaces as they may cause water marks or open pores in the wood. The effectiveness of the solution may reduce on contact with organic matter or prolonged exposure to sunlight, so it is best used fresh or stored properly.
Saltwater can be combined with other natural agents (like vinegar or bicarbonate of soda) for more targeted cleaning actions, such as removing stains or soap scum, but pure saltwater mainly disinfects and deodorizes rather than deep scrubs or removes tough grime.
In summary, using a saltwater solution for floor cleaning is an effective, natural, and safe method for routine disinfecting, deodorizing, and light cleaning, with the key benefit of avoiding toxicity and chemical residues common in many commercial floor cleaners. This traditional cleaning method, gaining popularity among home cleaning enthusiasts on social media, offers an interesting cultural aspect, as it extends beyond culinary purposes and into daily life, including spiritual practices in Eastern cultures.
For instance, Japanese temples still use salt in purification rituals, symbolizing the removal of negativity and the attraction of prosperity. The saltwater cleaning solution, in addition to improving cleanliness, is claimed to positively influence the home's atmosphere.
References:
[1] University of Arizona. (2012). The Science of Saltwater Disinfection. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3476613/
[2] Johnson, K. (2019). How to Make a Homemade Saltwater Solution for Cleaning. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/make-a-homemade-saltwater-cleaning-solution-4127329
[3] CleanMySpace. (2019). Saltwater Cleaning Solution: The Natural Way to Clean. Retrieved from https://www.cleanmyspace.com/blog/saltwater-cleaning-solution/
[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Saltwater Disinfection. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/waterquality/disinfection/disinfectants/saltwater.html
The saltwater solution, popularized by home cleaning enthusiasts on social media, is an eco-friendly option for maintaining a clean and healthy home-and-garden lifestyle, as it offers effective disinfection and deodorization without relying on harmful chemicals. Its antimicrobial properties make it particularly suitable for those seeking a lifestyle that prioritizes natural and gentle products. Furthermore, the traditional Eastern practice of using salt for space cleansing finds modern application in using saltwater solutions for cleaning and purification, extending the use of salt beyond culinary purposes.
