Spring is right around the corner, and you know what that means – spring cleaning! So many cleaning products on the market have harsh chemicals and toxic fumes that aren’t healthy for you, your little ones or even for your pets. Of course, health comes first but next, what about the items in your home you are using these cleaning products on? Many people who take pride in their homes often times decorate with items that they cherish and value. Using the gentlest but also equally thorough cleaning products is their best bet. Many of the cleaning products you purchase at the store can be made right in your own home using natural materials that work wonders on your home while also protecting you and your family from any toxins. Below are six different natural cleaning products you can make yourself!
1. Bathroom Cleaner: 3/4 cup baking soda, juice from ½ lemon (1/4 cup), 3 tbsps salt, 2 tbsps liquid dishwashing soap, ½ cup vinegar (10 drops of essential oil is optional – this is just to add a nice scent – I would recommend lavender, eucalyptus or lemon)
Mix ingredients in a bowl and test the paste on a small area to make sure it does not scuff any surfaces. If it does – eliminate the salt from the mixture then try again. Use the scrub brush or a sponge to apply to sinks, shower walls and bathtub. Then rinse with water and dry with a rag or towel.
2. Furniture Polish: ¾ cup olive oil, juice from ¼ lemon, 1 tbsp vinegar, 3-4 drops of lemon or orange essential oil (optional – for scent).
Dampen a rag or washcloth and squeeze out excess water. Then dip the damp rag into the homemade furniture polish and wipe on the surface of the furniture. Buff it off with another dry rag or washcloth. This natural furniture polish can even be used to polish stainless steel.
3. Glass Cleaner: 1 ½ cups vinegar,. 1 ½ cups water, 5-10 drops of essential oil (optional- for scent)
Mix water, vinegar and essential oils together in a spray bottle and spray onto glass. Then use a lint-free rag or washcloth for a streak-free shine. You can also use this cleaner to shine chrome and countertops.
4. Non-lacquered Brass Cleaner: White vinegar, lemon juice and table salt
Dampen a sponge with vinegar or lemon juice and sprinkle salt on top. Lightly rub over the surface and rinse thoroughly with water. Use a clean soft cloth to dry immediately afterwards.
5. Marble Cleaner: 1 -2 drops mild dishwashing soap (non-citrus scented), 2 cups warm water
Mix ingredients and dampen sponge with mixture. Wipe over the marble surface then rinse thoroughly to avoid any soap residue. Buff the marble with a washcloth or rag – do not allow the marble to air-dry. *Helpful Tip* Never use vinegar, lemon or any other acidic cleaner on a marble or granite surface because it can eat into the stone.
6. All Purpose Cleaner: 1 tbsp borax, 1 tbsp washing soda, 1 tsp dishwashing soap, 1 cup vinegar, 4 cups hot water and 25-30 drops of essential oil (optional – for scent)
Whisk the ingredients in large bowl and then pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray on nearly any surface to clean and disinfect! Always make sure to wipe your surface clean with a damp cloth afterwards.
