Environmentally Friendly Cleaners for Your Kitchen and Bathroom

You can “Go Green” and “Save Some Green” just by changing your cleaning supplies. While there are specially formulated eco-friendly cleaners on the market, you probably already have some of the best in your fridge or pantry. Here are a few of our favorites:

Distilled White Vinegar

This is the one non-toxic product that can clean almost anything in your home. At under $5.00 a gallon, it is also one of the best values. As it is usually diluted for general cleaning purposes, that’s only pennies per use.  

• For windows and countertops, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Keep this mix in a spray bottle under your sink for daily cleaning. 
• Get rid of lime scale on chrome fixtures by making a paste of 2 tablespoons salt and 1 teaspoon vinegar. Remove lime scale from your kettle by boiling a ½ cup of full strength vinegar for a few minutes. 
• Remove odors, stains and germs with vinegar. There are countless websites dedicated to cleaning with vinegar, check them out for its thousands of uses.

Baking Soda

You’ve probably had this one in your fridge to remove odors for years. You might even already be using it in your trash cans or litter box. However, it is another, non-toxic, low-cost cleaner that has uses you might not have known.

• Keep your drains clear by pouring a ¼ cup down them once a week. Rinse with hot water.
• Use as a scouring agent to remove stubborn stains in your sink.
• You can use baking soda to put out grease fires, as well.

Lemons

They’re not just for your iced tea anymore. Lemon juice cuts grease, freshens, bleaches and shines. Used in its natural state or as an essential oil, this 100% natural cleaner will leave your home smelling refreshed.

• Clean non-plated brass, copper and stainless steel by dipping ½ a lemon in salt and scrubbing the surface with it. Make sure to rinse well, as the acid in the lemon can lighten the color of the metal.
• Deodorize your garbage disposal by grinding a few slices of lemon while running hot water down the drain.
• Lemon juice is an alternative to bleach when you need to remove stains. Place the juice on the stain to start breaking it down, then sprinkle with baking soda and rinse.
• If you have essential lemon oil on hand, add a few drops to your other cleaning solutions for a fresh, clean scent and added cleaning power.

There are plenty of recipes on-line for natural cleaning solutions and recipes. You’ll be amazed at how well these work for all your household needs. You won’t have to worry about the health and safety about your family or pets. Best of all, you’ll save money and the environment while cleaning your home.