Crafts & DIY
8 Amish housekeeping secrets even the most frugal of people can appreciate
Their recipe for bug spray is a lifesaver.
Savannah Hyatt
05.24.21

Stemming largely from their simple agricultural techniques and self-sufficient economic practices, Amish people live quite sustainably. Their frugal practices allow them to cut ties from the outside world in which they are free to farm and do as they please.

These eight Amish housekeeping techniques are nothing short of traditional, meaning that even the most basic of housekeepers will likely be pleased.

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To repel insects and keep the home bug-free, the Amish have crafted up several home remedies requiring basic household ingredients.

If you’re looking to get rid of those pesky creatures once and for all, these 3 concoctions may be exactly what you’re looking for:

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To repel mosquitos try this repellent made entirely out of dry herbs.

All you need is a three-tablespoon mix of citronella, lavender, peppermint, cloves, catnip, spearmint, and lemongrass. Simply mix the three tablespoons of herbs with one boiled cup of water. Then, cover and let cool. When the mixture has settled to room temperature, remove the herbs with a strainer.

The resulting liquid is your new bug spray.

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To protect your plants from pesky insects, this simple mix is a tried and true method.

Bring one gallon of water to a boil then add in a half cup of brown sugar. Let the sugar completely dissolve, then you’re good to go!

To get rid of problematic cockroaches and ants, this borax mixture is sure to do the trick.

With equal proportions of borax and white sugar, sprinkle the mixture to infested areas, such as under the sink and fridge. Note, however, that borax can be hazardous for animals, so exercise caution if you have pets.

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It’s probably safe to say that most of us are no strangers to grease stains. No matter how much we scrub and scrub, sometimes the stains refuse to vanish, leaving us with clothes looking less than ideal.

With a vast quantity of chemicals on the market, claiming to remove even the toughest of stains we can’t help but wonder if there is a simpler and potentially safer approach.

Well, the good news is that the Amish have a solution for grease stains, and it’s too simple not to try.

Simply combine one teaspoon of salt with two cups of water. Let the mixture come to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool. Using a sponge, gently scrub the stained areas with the salt mixture. As with most tough stains, you may need to repeat this method several times to achieve your desired results.

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Bed sheets beginning to fray? Not a problem!

Since bedsheets usually begin to tear in the middle, simply cut the bedsheet right down the middle. Then, flip the halves over so the frayed middle pieces become the new edges. Sew the new middle together and voila!

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If you’re looking for an easy, sustainable way to clean counters, the Amish have 3 solutions.

The tried and true method of vinegar and baking soda proves to be both a strong cleaner and disinfectant. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two cups of white vinegar. If the smell is a bit too potent, simply add in an essential oil such as lemon or lemongrass.

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Hold on to your vinegar- this Amish floor cleaner is another that’s known to work miracles.

Add four parts of hot water with one part of hot vinegar, and you’re all done. Your floors will thank you for not using any harsh chemicals on them.

To create an easy disinfectant spray, simply combine one cup of vinegar with one cup of water then bring to a boil. Add in orange peels, then turn the heat off. Let the peels seep overnight, then strain the final product. Transfer the remaining liquids into a spray bottle.

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Learn more helpful tips from kind Amish folks in the video below!

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