If you saw my post last week, you know that I am into cleaning with chemical free, eco-friendly products. Sometimes, these products can be extremely pricy, especially when you compare them to their more traditional counterparts. If chemical free cleaners don’t fit into your budget, you can make your own that work just as well, for a fraction of the cost….and, with ingredients you likely already have.
DISCLAIMER: Never combine chlorine based bleach or products containing bleach with ammonia based cleaners, as this can be harmful or even fatal if inhaled. Always remember to label containers of homemade cleaner with the ingredients in case a child or animal comes into contact with it.
To make a multipurpose cleaner, combine one part white vinegar, one part water, a lemon rind and a sprig of rosemary in a glass jar or spray bottle. Let the ingredients infuse for a week prior to using them. TIP: do not use acidic cleaners on stone countertops as it may damage them.
Baking soda is a pantry staple and for good reasons. Not only can you use it to bake up some delicious goodness, you can also use it to clean. Baking soda is an excellent deodorizer- do you have a box in your fridge? Baking soda can be poured straight down the drain to get rid of lingering odors and you can remove spots on stainless steel by making a baking soda and water paste and letting it sit. You can also pour baking soda on vomit and vacuum it away.
You can mix four tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of water and have a great deodorizing spray that will polish your sink as well as clean and deodorize your kitchen appliances.
You can make a glass and window cleaner using just 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil. This homemade cleaner leaves a surprisingly streak-free shine.
For an all-natural scrub, combine half a lemon and half a cup of borax powder. This cleaner would be great for cleaning sinks and bath tubs, and you could even use some to clean your toilet.
All of the cleaner recipes listed above can be made easily and cheaply. For a chemical free cleaning arsenal that’s gentle on your lungs and your wallet, look no further than your own pantry.
