|
You can accomplish almost any household cleaning task with a combination of several simple, inexpensive and safe ingredients from the grocery store. Protect your family and pets from the toxic chemicals in many commercial cleaning products, at about one tenth of the cost. Use these recipes for safer cleaning solutions and get started on the road to a less toxic household!
 Supplies
White Distilled Vinegar
Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate, available in the laundry aisle)
Vegetable-Based Liquid Soap or Detergent
Tea Tree Oil
Assorted Glass Jars with Lids
Spray Bottles
Note: These ingredients and mixtures are generally very safe, but it is still important to use appropriate caution when handling these products. Keep them out of the reach of children. Be sure to read all labels and always wear gloves.
Window Cleaner
1/4-1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent
3 tablespoons vinegar
2 cups water
Spray bottle
Mix together in spray bottle. Spray on glass and wipe away with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Mold Killer
2 teaspoons tea tree oil
2 cups water
Combine in a spray bottle, shake to blend, and spray on problem areas. Do not rinse.
Drain Cleaner
Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. Wait 15 minutes, then pour boiling water down the drain.
Note: Only use this method with metal plumbing and DO NOT attempt this after trying a commercial drain opener.
Oven Cleaner
Coat surfaces with a paste made of baking soda and water. Let sit overnight, then scrub the paste off.
All-Purpose Surface Cleaner
2 cups hot water
3 tablespoons vinegar
½ teaspoon liquid soap
½ teaspoon washing soda
10 drops tea tree oil
Combine in a spray bottle.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl, then add a dash of vinegar and scrub with a toilet brush.
Fabric Softener
Add ¼ cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
Laundry Stain Remover
1/4 Cup Washing Soda
2 Cups Cold Water
Sponge on and let dry, or soak clothes in the mixture before washing in cold water.
|
