Cloves & Cleaning

 

Cloves contain eugenol, which is a incredibly strong, natural antifungal and antiseptic. It doesn't just clean surfaces; it actually kills mold spores and stops them from growing back.

1. The Ultimate Anti-Mold Spray (Perfect for Bathrooms & Grotty Corners)

Instead of breathing in harsh bleach fumes while you're already feeling under the weather with the flu, this clove spray is amazing for tile grout, silicone seals, and damp areas.

How to make it: Take a handful of your cloves, crush them up roughly, and put them in a saucepan with about 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, put a lid on it, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the water turns a deep, dark brown.

How to use it: Let it cool completely, strain out the bits, and pour the dark liquid into a spray bottle. Spray it onto moldy grout or shower recesses, leave it sitting overnight (don't rinse it off straight away—let the eugenol do its antifungal magic), and wipe it away the next day.

2. Scented Wardrobe & Pantry Protectors (Moth & Bug Deterrent)

Insects like silverfish, moths, and pantry weevils absolutely detest the strong scent of cloves.

How to make it: Take a few small pieces of cloth (like an old cut-up t-shirt or rag) or small mesh bags. Fill them with a mix of your crushed cloves and a cinnamon quill from your stash.

How to use it: Tie them up with a rubber band or string and toss them into the back of your wardrobe, linen cupboards, or the pantry. It will keep the bugs away and make your cupboards smell like a cozy winter cabin.

3. Fridge & Bin Deodoriser

If your kitchen bin or fridge is smelling a bit funky, cloves are brilliant at absorbing odors and killing the bacteria that cause them.

How to make it: Put a few tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) into a small open jar or container, and stir in a spoonful of roughly smashed cloves.

How to use it: Place the open jar in the door of your fridge or at the bottom of your kitchen bin cupboard. The bicarb absorbs the moisture and bad odors, while the cloves release a fresh, clean scent.

A Quick Warning for Surfaces: Because clove water turns quite dark, it can temporarily stain porous, light-colored surfaces like unsealed marble, light wood, or white plastic if left to puddles. Always do a quick spot-test in a hidden corner first!