Natural cleaning solutions are often less expensive than their chemical counterparts, and they help provide a healthier, toxin-free environment in your home. Many products you can use to clean your home are probably already stashed in that cabinet under the sink. Stop breathing in the chemical fumes of mainstream cleaning products, and try these natural cleaning solutions.
Freshen Up Your Laundry
Ditch those fabric softener sheets, and opt for essential oils instead. For this trick, you can take a clean washcloth and add one to two drops of your favorite essential oil. Toss the scented cloth in with your wet clothes before turning on the dryer, and you’ll be rewarded with a fresh scent when the cycle is over.
Recommended oils include lemon, lavender, or tea tree.
Toughen Up on Dirt and Grime With Baking Soda
Use baking soda to tackle a variety of dirty surfaces in your home. Sprinkle baking soda on your floors followed by a small amount of water. Let the mixture dry, then scrub it down and rinse with water.
Another use for baking soda is to clean caked-on oil on kitchen appliances. Follow the same method as mentioned above: sprinkle on the baking soda, then water, and let stand. Use a spray bottle with clean water and a cloth to help wipe away the dried baking soda.
When Life Gives You Lemons
Lemons naturally contain citric acid, which is a great replacement for bleach and bleach products. The lemon’s acidity can help break down and lift away caked on gunk. Plus, the smell is much more pleasant than bleach.
Take a whole lemon and cut it in half. Use the lemon halves to scrub down areas you need to clean, such as the inside of your refrigerator or a sink.
Vinegar: Powerful Smell and Cleaning Power
Vinegar is another alternative to bleach, though it does not have the same fresh smell as lemons. If the smell doesn’t bother you, mix vinegar with water in a spray bottle to create a homemade natural cleaner.
The vinegar spray can be used to clean grout or surfaces such as stoves and countertops. Do not use vinegar on wood products—it may wipe away the finish.
Vinegar can also be used undiluted to tackle messier jobs, such as toilet bowls. Pour vinegar into the toilet, and scrub with a toilet brush until stains are gone.
The Many Uses of Salt
There are many ways you can use salt to naturally clean your home. One of the best ways is to clear away grease from dirty bakeware and cookware.
Those who are equipped with a cast iron skillet know soap and water can ruin its seasoning. Use salt and paper towels to scrub the skillet clean after each use.
Salt is also useful in removing blood or sweat stains in clothing. Soak clothing in cold salt water before washing to help lift stains away.
Natural Wood Polish
One way to clean wood naturally, without stripping the finish, is to make a homemade polishing solution. Combine two cups of olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Mix the oil and juice in a small plastic container, and use it with a soft cloth (like microfiber) to clean wood.
Combine Powers to Lift Carpet Stains
A homemade stain remover that’s safe to use on carpets can be made by combining one cup of vinegar and two cups of baking soda. If desired, add two to six drops of an essential oil of your choice. Choose an essential oil with a bright, fresh smell for best results.
To use the stain remover, use a toothbrush to scrub the paste into the carpet. Wait for the paste to dry, then use a vacuum to clean up the dried paste.
Suggested oils include peppermint, lemon, orange, grapefruit, eucalyptus, or lavender.
One of the great things about many of these homemade cleaning solutions is the ability to personalize and customize them to suit your needs. Choose essential oils you enjoy the smell of, and if you don’t want to switch out all of your cleaners, you don’t have to. Always do spot tests before going all in with a cleaner so you do not damage any appliances or furniture. Finally, while these cleaners are intended to be safer than store-bought products, still keep them out of reach of children.
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Sources: [Starts at 60, Wellness Mama, WKYCAmerican College of Healthcare Sciences, Food Matters, Good Housekeeping, HGTV, Real Simple]
