There are many home cleaners that are not healthy for you or the environment. Some cleaners emit harsh volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. Exposure to VOCs can contribute to health problems like irritation in the eyes and nose, liver damage, kidney damage, headaches, as well as loss of coordination. This is one of the many reasons why natural cleaners are a much safer option. You can actually make your own homemade natural cleaning products by using ingredients found in the heart of your kitchen.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Vinegar and baking soda are two popular ingredients used to make natural home cleaners. These are effective, affordable, and gentle on the environment and your health as well.
Vinegar Cleaner Recipes
A vinegar cleaner has strong antibacterial properties even with just a 5% concentration. A simple 100% plain white vinegar solution can be used to clean or deodorize multiple surfaces including kitchen countertops or bathroom sinks.
Vinegar Cleaner for the Oven Stains – To get rid of stains in your oven, simply clean it with vinegar. For burnt areas, try pouring a liberal amount on the surface. Then close the oven door and let it sit for at least two hours. After that time, wipe off the vinegar that has loosed the residue on the burnt area.
Vinegar Cleaner for Glass Surfaces – Simply mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with 1 quart of water. Pour this mixture into a spray bottle. You can also add more vinegar if you need a stronger cleaner.
Vinegar Cleaner for Wood Surfaces – Combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and ¼ cup of lemon juice. Mix everything the ingredients. Using a soft cloth, rub the cleaner in the direction of the grain.
Baking Soda Cleaner Recipes
Baking soda is a great surface cleaner and deodorizer as well. Its natural mixture of chemical salts adds sparkle and shine to many surfaces. It can also be used as a safe scrub on surfaces that need a little extra oomph.
Baking Soda All-Purpose Cleaner – For a gentle multi-purpose cleaner, measure 4 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 quart of warm water. Dissolve the baking soda in the warm water. Apply it the surfaces, then rinse or wipe down to remove any residue.
Baking Soda Cleaner for the Toilet Bowl – To clean toilet bowls, sprinkle baking soda in the basin. Scrub, then rinse with warm water.
Baking Soda Drain Cleaner – To clear a drain, use ½ cup of salt, ½ cup of baking soda, and 6 cups of boiling water. Pour the salt in the drain followed by the baking soda. Then add the boiling water and let it sit overnight.
These are just a few of the countless uses of homemade natural cleaner recipes that you can utilize. Having these natural cleaners around will surely keep your home clean and green.
