There are several reasons switching to environmentally friendly, homemade cleaning products may benefit your family: The chemicals in many household cleaners can aggravate asthma, bronchitis, headaches or other health problems. Natural home cleaners are better for the environment and take less time to decompose. Green cleaning can also be inexpensive; and you won't have to air out the house afterward, according to MSN. A number of cleaners can be made at home, mainly using common, grocery store ingredients and some empty spray bottles.
Considerations
Substitutions for common cleaning products are meant to minimize the use of toxic substances in the home and reduce environmental damage. Always use caution with new products--results can vary. In addition, keep all homemade cleaners well-labeled and out of the reach of children, according to Eartheasy.
Bathroom Cleaners
For an easy toilet cleaner, mix 1/4 cup baking soda with one cup vinegar, pour into basin and let it set for a few minutes to an hour, depending on the desired level of cleaning. Follow by scrubbing with a brush. A mixture of two parts borax and one part lemon juice will also work for tough jobs, according to Eartheasy.
For tub and tile cleaning, rub baking soda directly on with a damp sponge, then rinse. For extra cleaning power, Eartheasy suggests wiping with white vinegar first, then using the baking soda to scour. For mold on bathroom grout, try one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water, then wait an hour before rinsing.
Living Room Cleaners
An all-natural window cleaner can be made by mixing one part vinegar with two parts water. The first time you clean the windows with this method, add about teaspoon of detergent. This is necessary because you will need to dissolve the waxy buildup many chemical cleaners contain, according to MSN.
Make a simple furniture polish using two parts olive oil to one part lemon juice, according to Organized Home. Shake well and apply a small amount with a cleaning cloth, then turn to the dry side and polish.
Kitchen Cleaners
To make an Earth-friendly all-purpose cleaner, try 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/4 cup baking soda in half a gallon of water. Store in spray bottles; shake and use on counters, fixtures, walls and more.
For oven cleaning, MSN suggests covering the dirty area with plenty of baking soda. Spray with water until it is paste-like, then wait 12 to 24 hours before wiping clean.
Final Tips
Eartheasy suggests cellulose sponges in place of polyester or plastic sponges that take a long time to biodegrade. Cellulose sponges are good for the environment and will soak up spills fast--they are naturally highly absorbent. For cleaning rags, try an old cotton T-shirt cut into four sections.
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