The importance of sanitizing your material when making products
Sanitizing your bottles and equipment is crucial for creating safe and effective aromatherapy blends. Contaminated tools can introduce bacteria, mould, or debris into your creations, compromising their quality, shelf life, and safety. Proper sanitization is not just about cleanliness—it protects the integrity of your work, ensures accurate blending, and maintains trust with clients or loved ones using your products.
What You'll Need to Sanitize Your Equipment
Before diving into the process, gather these supplies:
Unscented dish soap or castile soap
White vinegar or 70% isopropyl alcohol
Distilled water
A large pot
A clean towel
Tongs
Heat-resistant gloves
Paper towels
Step-by-Step Guide to Sanitizing Bottles and Tools
1. Wash Thoroughly
Rinse all bottles, droppers, and tools with warm water to remove any residue.
Wash them using unscented dish soap or castile soap. Scrub gently with a bottle brush for hard-to-reach areas.
2. Prepare for Heat Sanitization
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
Submerge glass bottles and metal tools (avoid plastic or components that may melt).
3. Boil to Sterilize - For Glass and Metal Components
Allow the items to boil for 10-15 minutes. This step kills bacteria, fungi, and spores.
Use tongs to remove items and place them on a clean towel to air-dry.
4. Sanitize Without Boiling - Plastic and Other Material Components
Mix equal parts white vinegar and distilled water, OR use 70% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle
Spray jars, lids, or tools that can't be boiled
Place on a paper towel or a clean and disinfected work surface
5. Ensure Drying and Storage
Let all items air-dry completely. Any moisture left inside bottles can promote microbial growth.
Store sanitized tools in a clean, dry, and airtight container until use.
Tips for Maintaining Sanitization
Sanitize Immediately: Clean tools as soon as you’re done to prevent residue from hardening.
Use Distilled Water: When making water-based blends, always opt for distilled water to reduce contaminants.
Label Your Tools: Dedicate specific tools to certain types of products (e.g., one set for butters, another for hydrosols).
Sanitizing your bottles and equipment may feel like an extra step, but it’s essential for creating high-quality aromatherapy products. By following these simple steps, you’ll not only ensure the safety of your blends but also build confidence in your skills. Whether you’re crafting for personal use, or for clients, cleanliness is the foundation of excellence in aromatherapy.
Check out our video for step by step guide as well - https://youtu.be/QYZc3e33z2o
Share your sanitization tips or questions in the comments below!
FAQs
Q: How often should I sanitize my tools?
A: Sanitize your tools before every blending session to ensure optimal cleanliness and safety.
Q: Can I skip boiling and just use alcohol?
A: Alcohol works well for surfaces and plastics but is less effective for deep sanitization of glass or metal tools. Boiling ensures thorough sterilization.
Q: What’s the best way to clean essential oil residue?
A: Use a mixture of dish soap and white vinegar. For stubborn residue, soak the items in warm water with baking soda.
Q: Can I put my glass jars in the oven to sanitize?
A: Yes you can. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). After you have washed your jars in warm soapy water and rinsed them off, place them on an oven-safe tray and into the oven to bake for 20 minutes. Carefully remove the jars using heat-resistant gloves or tongs and allow them to cool on a clean surface. Avoid touching the inside of the jars to keep them sterile until use.
If you’re more of a visual learner, don’t forget to check out our video for step by step guide as well - https://youtu.be/QYZc3e33z2o
LEARN MORE WITH ESSENTRIA
This information is brought to you by Nikki Fraser and Rachael Dean, Clinical Aromatherapists and co-founders of Essentria Aromatherapy School. With over 20 years of combined experience, and recognition from top organizations like NAHA and CFA, they are passionate about empowering others to use essential oils safely. At Essentria Aromatherapy School, they offer leading online courses, helping students gain confidence and credibility in the field of aromatherapy. Whether you're exploring essential oils for personal use or looking to build a fulfilling career, Nikki and Rachael are here to guide you every step of the way.
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