You probably have an assortment of planet-friendly cleaning products at your home without even knowing it. That's because natural products like baking soda, borax and vinegar have passed out of vogue as more caustic, sometimes toxic products have taken their place. As people become more aware of the environmental impact of these, they might be surprised by just how powerful these old-time cleaning methods are. They might also enjoy the money they save on unnecessary cleaning products.
Baking Soda
When it comes to cleaning, what can't baking soda do? It absorbs odor and moisture, and it can be used for scrubbing. It can be used for big jobs, like cleaning the surfaces of a kitchen or bathroom, or smaller jobs like soaking oral appliances. It can also be used as a laundry additive or to help neutralize odor from a litter box. Baking soda works well for deodorizing carpeting and removing stains from coffee pots and cups. Its cleaning powers can be boosted when combined with lemon juice or vinegar.
Lemons
Lemons can be used to clean because of their acidity, but they also provide a pleasant scent often mimicked by commercial cleaning products. They can be used in conjunction with baking soda and salt to create a more powerful acidic and abrasive tool for scrubbing countertops and cutting boards. Toss half a lemon into your garbage disposal and run the disposal to clean and freshen it. Lemon juice can also be used as an additive for dishwasher and washing machine detergents.
Borax
Borax, known as sodium borate or sodium tetraborate, shares a commonality with baking soda because it occurs naturally, can be used for cleansing and deodorizing and is abrasive for scrubbing. It's also a natural insecticide. Sprinkle it around your refrigerator or cupboards to keep cockroaches away, or mix it with honey to attract and kill silverfish and ants. It's also good for removing urine smells.
Dampen urine stains, and sprinkle borax on them. Allow the spot to dry, then brush or vacuum it up. It can also be used to deodorize diaper buckets and toilets.
Vinegar
This naturally acidic liquid is terrific for safe cleaning and removing rust and mold. Use it to wash windows, coffee makers, floors and glassware. Pour it down the spout to clean a clogged drain, or dip your shower head in a cup of vinegar to fight mineral deposits. You can also pour a half-cup of vinegar into the reservoir of your dishwasher to disinfect the inside of the machine.
Salt
Salt may be high in sodium, but it sure is tasty. It's also great for scouring because of its granular texture. It can be poured onto a washcloth to help get stubborn stains and food off of glassware. It will also absorb grease when you scrub down pots and pans, or it can be used to absorb spills in the oven and on countertops. Sprinkle it over the affected area and wait as it absorbs the mess, then wipe the salt away.
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