Many of the products we use while cleaning our homes, ranging from laundry detergents to glass cleaners, may contain ingredients such as ammonia, sodium hydroxide and triclosan. These ingredients can linger on surfaces and, based on how much we use, and how long we are exposed to them, might not be the best thing to use when it comes to our personal environment.
Fortunately, you can make your own, natural alternatives with just a few ingredients from your kitchen.
Here are some environmentally friendly recipes for DIY household cleaners you can use on nearly any surface in your home.
• All-purpose cleaner. Combine one cup each warm water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and shake well. Use on most surfaces. Add 20 to 30 drops of your favourite essential oil if you prefer something scented. For tougher jobs, double up on the vinegar.
• Furnish polish. Add two tablespoons each of olive oil and white vinegar (or lemon juice) to two cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Shake well before spraying on wooden and plastic furniture and wiping clean.
• Laundry detergent. Dissolve six tablespoons of baking soda and two tablespoons of course salt in 2 litres of hot water, then add six tablespoons of liquid castile soap. Mix well and add half a cup per full load directly into the washer tub.
• Glass and mirror cleaner. All you need is equal parts water and white vinegar, mixed gently in a spray bottle. Wipe with an old newspaper for a streak-free finish.
• Stainless steel cleaner. Gently massage a very thin layer of olive oil onto the stainless steel surface, then wipe off with a cloth dampened in white vinegar. Now your appliances are clean and fingerprint resistant.
