Cleaning is a part of everyday life that can become confusing with the wide array of commercial cleaning products available. Many cleaning products on the market are heavily laden with harsh chemicals, which makes opting for natural cleaning products a safer choice—and there are many other benefits in using natural products.
Expense
Commercial cleaning products, although useful, can be very expensive. Natural cleansers can be a much more economical option for budget-conscious shoppers. Baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and cornstarch are excellent examples of inexpensive products that are found in many kitchens and can serve a variety of purposes. From adding flavor and texture to recipes to disinfecting and shining countertops, these simple and inexpensive products are extremely versatile. Isopropyl alcohol is another example of a common household product that is both cost effective and useful.
Multiple Uses
Many natural cleaners can serve several purposes throughout the household which can save money and time. Baking soda is an inexpensive option that can be used as a fabric softener and deodorizer, and it can polish metals and plastics. Vinegar is an extremely versatile product that can be used to clean multiple surfaces, deodorize and remove mildew. Lemon juice can be used as a glass cleaner, deodorizer and stain remover. Cornstarch can clean windows, carpets, and polish furniture. Isopropyl alcohol is an excellent and inexpensive disinfectant.
Health Concerns
According to Charity Guide, each year the average American uses approximately 40 pounds of household products that contain toxic chemicals. The chemicals used in common household products can be especially hazardous to infants, small children and people with asthma. Breathing these toxic chemicals can irritate the respiratory system and cause additional problems. Many of the cleaners are liquids, which increase the risk of splashing into the eyes and chemical burns with skin contact. Keeping harsh chemical products in the house also poses a risk of ingestion by small children.
Eco-friendly
The cleaning products that we use not only affect the initial surface they are used on, but can affect the surrounding environment. Cleaning products come in contact with the air and can seep into the soil. By making their way into the soil, harsh chemicals in these products can eventually make their way into water and food supplies. The presence of these chemicals can affect crop growth and contaminate food supplies.
Effectiveness
Many consumers opt for household cleaners laden with harsh chemicals because they feel they are the most effective option. A study conducted at Purdue University examined the effectiveness of various natural cleaners such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice on both kitchen and bathroom dirt. The results showed that there were natural cleaners that were as effective as cleaners containing chemicals in disinfecting and reducing bacterial growth.
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