Wood Ash Cleaning Powder Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fine wood ash (from hardwood like oak, maple, or ash wood)
• 1 tablespoon of water (optional)
• A few drops of essential oil (optional, for fragrance)

Instructions:

1. Collect and Sift Ash: After burning hardwood in your fireplace or wood stove, collect the cooled wood ash. Use a fine mesh strainer or sifter to remove larger particles, leaving you with fine, powdery ash.
2. Optional Step – Make a Paste: If you prefer a paste for cleaning, add a tablespoon of water to the wood ash and mix until you reach a paste-like consistency. Add a few drops of essential oil if you want a pleasant fragrance.
3. Storage: Store the wood ash powder or paste in an airtight container to keep it dry and ready for use.

Uses for Wood Ash:

• Deodorizer: Sprinkle wood ash in garbage bins, shoes, or areas with strong odors. It works similarly to baking soda, absorbing and neutralizing smells.
• Cleaning Agent: Use the ash powder to scrub pots, pans, or glass surfaces. Its abrasive nature helps remove tough stains and grime without scratching surfaces.
• Rust Removal: Mix wood ash with a little water to create a paste. Apply this paste to rusted metal items and scrub with a brush to remove rust.
• Polishing Silverware: To restore shine to tarnished silver, rub it with a soft cloth dipped in wood ash powder.

Caution:

• Ensure the ash is completely cool before handling.
• Avoid using wood ash from treated wood, as it may contain harmful chemicals.
• Test on a small area first to avoid damage to delicate surfaces.