Commercial household cleaners contain chemical bases that may be cause for concern. According to the book "Naturally Clean," these chemicals can aggravate medical conditions such as asthma and allergies. Making natural home cleaning supplies is a fairly simple process that ensures your cleaners contain no artificial chemicals. Common basic formulas for cleaners generally include abrasives such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice.
All-Purpose Cleaner
All-purpose cleaners don't have to contain harsh sterilizing agents. "Naturally Clean" says that high-acid ingredients, such as vinegar, have natural sterilizing powers. A bit of baking soda removes stains and debris without scratching surfaces. To make a homemade all-purpose cleaner, combine 1/2 cup of white vinegar, 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1/2 gallon of warm water in a spray bottle. Shake to combine.
Glass and Window Cleaner
Homemade glass and window cleaner is very basic. The most important thing to remember when making this type of cleaning agent is that the mixture can etch the glass if it contains too much acid. Combine 2 tsp. of white vinegar with 1 qt. of warm water in a spray bottle. To use the cleaner, spritz it on the surface and wipe it away with a piece of newspaper. The newsprint keeps the solution from smearing and streaking up the glass.
Air Freshener
A simple lemon air freshener can temporarily eliminate harsh odors around the house. Pour equal parts lemon juice and warm water in a spray bottle and shake to combine. Spray the solution into the air to neutralize smells. Be careful when spraying the mixture near upholstered furniture, as lemon juice can cause discoloration in certain types of fabric.
Heavy-Duty Kitchen Cleaner
Many heavy-duty kitchen cleaners, such as those that are used to clean stove tops and counters, contain harsh abrasives that can scratch the surfaces. According to "Naturally Clean," this mixture works just as well as commercial blends on kitchen surfaces: Mix 2 tsp. of washing soda, 2 tsp. of borax, 1/2 tsp. of natural liquid dish soap and 1 cup of hot water in a spray bottle. Swirl the bottle gently to combine the solution. Spray the solution and wipe it away thoroughly with a soft rag. It may leave a harmless white film behind if you don't wipe up all the cleaning agent.
References
- "Naturally Clean"; Jeffrey Hollender, Geoff Davis and Meika Hollender; 2006
- Earth Easy: Non-Toxic Home Care
- "Cleaning Plain and Simple"; Donna Smallin; 2005
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