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Last updated on November 18th, 2024 at 10:46 am
Are you looking for green cleaning options so you can cut down on all those toxic chemicals? There are effective alternatives!
Spring, and maybe the the start of a new year, are times when we declutter and clean our homes in depth. We get a great feeling when the clutter and cobwebs are gone. However, many cleaning products are full of chemicals which are often both unnecessary and harmful.
If you are looking for a healthier way to get your home in shape without using chemical-laden cleaning products, here are some tips to get you there.
Green Cleaning: Non-Toxic, Natural Ways to Clean Your Home
Vinegar
Vinegar is by far one of the most popular non-toxic cleaners. Ask anyone who avoids chemicals what their stand-bys are, and they will certainly mention vinegar. Vinegar is an acidic substance, and because of this, it effectively combats everything from grease to other build-ups of all kinds.
Use vinegar on a clean rag to make mirrors squeaky clean, and to give a nice shine to sinks and toilet bowls. For floors that shine, mix vinegar with water and a few drops of soap, and wipe with a rag.
Lemon Juice
Like vinegar, lemon juice works because of its acidity. Clean your cutting boards by slicing a lemon in half and rubbing it into the board, as this removes both stains and germs. If your glass shower doors become scum-laden, wipe a lemon over them to remove the build-up.
When was the last time you cleaned the inside of your microwave? This should be a regular part of your cleaning routine. Put a few tablespoons of lemon juice into a glass of water, and microwave to the boiling point. Keep the door closed for another 10 minutes, and wipe clean with a cloth once it is opened. You will find that the food particles wipe away easily.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is another cleaning substance which has no limits. It kills viruses, and has deodorizing and grease-cutting capabilities. If you want to get rid of bathtub scum, sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth, wipe it over the grayish scum, and wipe it away easily.
Baking soda also works wonderfully when made into a paste with water to remove rust spots from your stainless steel sink or burned-on food from stainless steel pots and pans.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
There are many essential oils that are great to put into your box of cleaning supplies. One of the most popular essential oils used for cleaning is tea tree oil.
This oil is antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal. It is extremely strong when undiluted, so simply put a few drops into any cleaning solution such as vinegar and water to give it an extra boost.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a great cleaner, and perfect for polishing as well. Olive oil lifts dirt, so it is perfect to use as wood cleaner. It will also give it a nice shine while you clean. If you want it to have an extra pleasant scent, simply add a few drops of orange or lemon oil, and some vinegar if you like. Put this all in a spray bottle, or dip a rag into the solution before wiping your wooden table or floors.
Starting fresh for the new year or the spring by giving your home a good cleaning can make it feel like new. It doesn’t take dangerous and toxic chemicals to do so either. Simply use some of these tried and tested natural cleaning supplies, and your home will be feeling fresh in no time.
Do you have any green cleaning tips? Leave us a comment below.
Also read — Print Your Basic Cleaning Checklist (and Why You Need One)
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