All-natural Cleaning Solutions
Store shelves are packed with commercial chemical cleaners that can be costly not only to your pocketbook but also to the environment and your health. There are alternatives. All-natural, everyday household items can be combined and used to give your home an eco-friendly green cleaning.
Here are a few eco-friendly recipes to get you started:
All-Purpose Cleaner
Mix 1/2 cup of soap with 1 gallon of hot water. For a fresh scent, add 1/4 cup of lemon juice.
Scrub, rinse with water, repeat if necessary.
Disinfectant
Mix 2 teaspoons borax, 4 tablespoons vinegar and 3 cups hot water.
Use a damp cloth to wipe surfaces with the solution or you can use a non-aerosol spray bottle.
Air Fresheners
Plenty of ingredients found around the house can be used to soak up unwanted scents. A few:
- House plants purify the air
- Grind up slices of lemon in the garbage disposal
- Leave a box of baking soda in your refrigerator to soak up odors
- To spritz the house with a fresh scent, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 2 cups of hot water then add a teaspoon of lemon juice. Pour it into a spray bottle (non-aerosol) and use as you would a commercial air freshener.
- Open a window. Let fresh air IN and residue and chemicals from harsh commercial cleansers OUT.
Laundry Detergent
1 cup of Ivory soap mixed with1/2 cup of washing soda and 1/2 cup borax will leave clothes clean and fresh. Use 1 tablespoon for small loads, more for heavier loads.
