One thing that we all have in common is there comes a time when we have to clean our house. Sure, there are tons of commercial cleaning brands that you can choose from. But why not go the natural cleaning route by making some of your own products instead?
There are a few reasons why this is a smart move. All-natural products will reduce your chances of taking in dangerous fumes, and they’re easier on your household surfaces. All-natural products are better for the environment, too.
Has this piqued your interest? If so, here are five items and a few tips that can make your house sparkling clean and are good for your health and well-being, too.
1. White Vinegar
Vinegar is highly acidic. That makes it the perfect cleanser if you want to remove gunk from your stove or you want to clean your windows and mirrors. It’s also an ideal cleanser for mopping your floors or disinfecting your toilet bowls.
Glass Spray Recipe: Add one part white vinegar and one part distilled water to a spray bottle. Shake and then spray. Your windows and mirrors will be squeaky clean.
2. Castile Soap
Castile soap is made up of mostly vegetable oils and lye. It’s a great cleaner because it’s powerful yet gentle on surfaces. You can add one-third of it to your laundry or use it to remove dust from your plants.
All-Purpose Recipe: Add one tablespoon of castile soap to two cups of distilled water in a spray bottle. Then put 5-7 drops of your favorite smelling essential oil. Shake and use as a pre-soaker for dishes, kitchen surfaces, or bathroom tiles.
3. Baking Soda
The other name for baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, and when it comes to house cleaning, there is nothing that baking soda can’t do. It’s a natural carpet cleaner and deodorizer, and it can help to polish your silverware.
Baking soda is also helpful when cleaning scorched pots, neutralizing the odors in your refrigerator, and removing the rings from your bathtub.
Air Freshener Recipe: A lot of air fresheners mask odors; however, baking soda doesn’t. If you pour one-third cup of baking soda into a mason jar and add 10-15 drops of citrus essential oils, the combination will purify the air. Simply sit the jar on your kitchen table or your children’s night stand and enjoy.
4. Borax
Three other names for borax include sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, and disodium tetraborate. As far as all-natural cleaning products go, it’s a fan favorite. Whether you’re looking to get rid of mold and mildew, get rid of rust on your cookware or appliances or remove crayon marks from your walls, borax can make it happen.
The main thing to remember about borax is it’s safe to use as a cleanser but is harmful if swallowed. That’s why you should always keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Outdoor Cushions Recipe: Borax is also a wonderful natural cleaner if you’re ready to brighten up your outdoor furniture. Put two tablespoons of castile soap and a half cup of Borax in a bucket of water. Then use a hard-bristle brush to scrub your cushions.
5. Essential Oils Are Great for Natural Cleaning
Everyone should have a collection of essential oils in their home. The reasons why are numerous but when it comes to cleaning, certain ones can do the following:
- Lemon oil: wooden furniture cleaner
- Peppermint oil: pest repellent
- Tea tree oil: potent disinfectant
- Lavender oil: linens freshener
- Thyme oil: cleaner for cutting boards and kitchen sinks
- Eucalyptus oil: deodorizer for trash cans and diaper pails
- Pine oil: hardwood floor cleaner
Plus, essential oils smell really good. They will clean your house and provide aromatherapy benefits at the same time.
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