Most people have a different chemical cleaner for just about every household surface that they clean. But the health effects of choosing harsh chemical cleaners simply aren't worth the headaches. In a 2003 study published in "Thorax: An International Journal of Respiratory Medicine," respiratory and environmental health researchers in Barcelona, Spain, found that women involved in commercial cleaning had a higher incidence of asthma. While researchers are still examining possible causes, use of harsh cleaning products may be to blame. But there's no need to use toxic chemicals when you can achieve the same results with natural options.
Baking Soda
It scours, it neutralizes odors and it deep cleans. Baking soda is the first ingredient to reach for to get a clean home. Not only does it work on almost everything, it's dirt cheap. With a little water added, you can scour sinks, tiles and counters with it. Sprinkle it on carpets to absorb odors, and then vacuum them away. Keep a box in the fridge and freezer to absorb odors.
Vinegar
Just plain, old, undiluted white vinegar works better than most overpriced glass cleaners. But that's not all it's good for. It dissolves buildup from hard water, eliminates soap scum, and even removes the tarnish on copper and brass. Pour it down a drain, and then sprinkle in baking soda to help unclog shower or sink drains. The acidity of the vinegar causes a chemical reaction with the alkaline baking soda.
Orange Oil
The oil extracted from the peels of oranges is a natural disinfectant, stain remover, room deodorizer and surface cleaner. Available in concentrated bottles, a little goes a long way with this natural cleaning product. Add a teaspoon to a large bucket of hot water, and you have a great all-purpose cleaner. Use straight on tough laundry stains. Check first to ensure the fabric is color-fast, as with any product, and you'll find that orange oil works better than just about any other stain remover on the market. Spray on a damp cloth to disinfect counters and other surfaces. Or add a teaspoon to your toilet bowl before scrubbing. It's a bit pricier than the other natural options but lasts for months.
Member Comments