A modern home in this age is loaded with toxic and polluting substances that are designed to make the domestic life easier. Commercial, chemical-based cleaning products do not only cost more financially, but they can also lead to long-term health concerns for the family as well as environmental pollution. Switching to natural cleaning solutions can save you time, money, and it also reduces chemical exposure – both to your family and to the environment.
Here are some natural cleaning alternatives that you should look into:
All-Purpose Cleaning Solution
- Mix ¼ cup baking soda and ½ cup vinegar into ½ gallon of water. Use this mixture for removal of water deposit stains on bathroom chrome fixtures, shower stall panels, bathroom mirrors, etc.
- You can also use microfiber cloths which lift-off grease, dirt and dust without the need for cleaning chemicals – they are formulated to penetrate and trap dirt. A quality cloth can last for several years.
Air Freshener
Commercial air fresheners mask smells, yes, but they also coat nasal passages to diminish the smell. For natural options:
- Having houseplants helps reduce odours in your home.
- Fresh coffee grounds on the counter also help in reducing unpleasant smells.
- Baking soda or vinegar with lemon juice put in small dishes absorbs odours around the house.
- To get strong smells from fish and onion off your utensils and cutting boards, wipe them with vinegar and wash them off in soapy water.
- Grind up a slice of lemon and put in the garbage disposal.
- Simmer water and cinnamon or other spices on your stove.
Carpet Stains
- Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture directly on the stain and let it sit for several minutes. Finish it off by cleaning with a brush or sponge using warm soapy water.
- For fresh grease spots, sprinkle cornstarch onto the spot. Wait for 15-30 minutes before vacuuming.
- For a heavy-duty carpet cleaner, mix ¼ cup each of salt, vinegar and borax. Rub the paste mixture into the carpet and leave for a few hours. Vacuum afterwards.
Coffee and Tea Stains
- Stains in cups can be removed by applying vinegar to a sponge and wipe clean.
- To clean a coffee maker or a kettle, add 2 cups of water and ¼ cup vinegar. Bring it to a boil and once it cools, wipe with a clean cloth and rinse thoroughly with water.
Deodorize
- Carpets – Sprinkle baking soda several hours before vacuuming them.
- Plastic Storage Containers – Soak overnight in baking soda and warm water.
- In-Sink Garbage Disposal Units – Grind up orange or lemon peel in the unit.
- Garage/Basements – Set a sliced onion on a plate at the centre of the room for 12 to 24 hours.
These are just several alternative cleaning solutions that would be better for you and your whole family – and the environment, too!
