With all the toxins around these days – it’s no wonder we want to go natural! A good reason to switch to natural cleaning products is to reduce your exposure – and your family’s exposure – to harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin, lungs, and eyes, and potentially disrupt hormones or trigger allergies. Natural alternatives are often safer for children and pets, and the environment, while still being effective at keeping your home clean.
Natural Cleaning Ingredients:
- White Vinegar – Cuts through grease, deodorizes and disinfects. Great for windows, counters/benches and bathrooms.
- Baking Soda – A gentle abrasive that neutralizes odors and lifts grime. Ideal for sinks, tubs, and freshening carpets.
- Lemon Juice – Naturally antibacterial and cuts through grease. Also leaves a fresh scent.
- Castile Soap – A vegetable-based soap, that’s versatile for all-purpose-cleaning, dishes, and even laundry.
- Essential Oils – (tea tree, lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) Add antibacterial properties and pleasant scents to homemade cleaners.
- Cornstarch – Can clean windows, polish furniture and conditioning leather.
Here are some great natural cleaning product ideas to get you started and keep your home cleaning safer for kids and pets.
Dishwashing Liquid.
- Juice from 3 lemons.
- 1 1/2 cup water.
- 1 cup salt.
- 1 cup vinegar.
Mix and boil for 10 minutes while stirring, until liquid thickens. Pour into glass container while still warm. Use in small drops.
Sink Cleaner.
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- Warm water
Add warm water to make a paste. Use on a sponge to scrub.
Toilet Cleaner.
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
Pour into toilet bowl, leave for 1/2 hour, wipe and flush.
Wood Floors/Panels.
- 1 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
- 20 drops of chosen essential oil
Glass Cleaner.
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 quart warm water
Add to spray bottle and wipe with crumbled newspaper.
Stained Mugs.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon water
Make into a paste and clean.
Healthy Tips.
Swap These For This
Chemical Cleaners Vinegar/baking soda
Seed Oils Olive oil/coconut oil
Fragrance Candles Beeswax Candles
Non-stick pans Stainless Steel pans
Plastic Bottles Glass Bottles
Polyester Cotton
