Making Tea Tree Oil Disinfectant Spray for Home Use
Question
Based on the previous discussion about making a disinfectant spray for home use, especially around a sick person, and the advice to use oil-based Tea Tree Oil with a solvent, how can I properly mix oil-based Tea Tree Oil (such as Tea Tree Oil (Extra Grade), Tea Tree Oil (China), or Tea Tree Oil (Australian)) with water to create a stable spray? The previous advice mentioned using a solvent like alcohol or Polysorbate 20. What is the recommended mixing procedure and ratio for Polysorbate 20, and are there alternative Tea Tree Oil products that mix directly with water?
Answer
Tea Tree Oil for Home Disinfectant Spray
Based on your need to create a disinfectant spray for home use, especially around a sick person, and the previous advice to use the oil type with a solvent, you can use an oil-based Tea Tree Oil such as Tea Tree Oil (Extra Grade), Tea Tree Oil (China), or Tea Tree Oil (Australian).
Since these are oil-based, they do not dissolve directly in water. To make a spray that mixes well with water, you will need a solvent or emulsifier.
Polysorbate 20 is a common emulsifier used to mix oils with water in cosmetic and household products. Alcohol was also suggested previously, but Polysorbate 20 is often preferred for sprays as it helps create a stable mixture.
Mixing Method:
- Mix the Tea Tree Oil with a solvent like Polysorbate 20 first. A common ratio is 1 part Tea Tree Oil to 1-5 parts Polysorbate 20, depending on the desired concentration and how well it emulsifies. Start with a 1:1 ratio and adjust if needed.
- Once the Tea Tree Oil is fully dispersed in the Polysorbate 20, gradually add this mixture to the water while stirring or shaking.
- You can adjust the total concentration of Tea Tree Oil in the final spray depending on the desired strength, but be mindful that high concentrations can have a strong scent.
Alternatively, if you prefer a simpler mixing process, you could look for a "Tea Tree dissolved in water" type product, which is designed to mix directly with water without the need for an additional solvent.
Remember to store Tea Tree Oil properly, ideally in a glass container away from light and heat, as it can degrade plastic over time.
Related Products Mentioned
Tea Tree Oil (Extra Grade)
Tea Tree Oil (China)