This was one of the first things I fully switched over on my path to living a more natural life. You use these products daily, they end up covering your entire house, you may even have children or pets that crawl or play on the floor. Typical cleaners contain many harmful ingredients and chemicals that are just unnecessary! Did you know that manufacturers are not required (by law) to list the ingredients? That's pretty scary! By switching over to more natural products not only will you save money but you will be playing a part in keeping our water clean and forests beautiful.
There are hundreds of different recipes out there but honestly these are the ones that I find myself making over and over again!:
Dishes:
castille soap - That's it!
Glass Cleaner:
1 part vinegar
2 parts water
* Mix and use a lint free cloth for streak free windows, mirrors and stainless.
All-Purpose Cleaner
1 part vinegar
2 parts water
1 tsp liquid castille soap
1 tsp baking soda
20 drops of your favourite essential oil (I like to mix it up! Some of my favourites are orange, lemon and lavender)
* I also use this for carpet stains! Be sure to test a small area first.
Daily Shower and Toilet Bowl Cleaner
1 part vinegar
1 part water
20 drops tea tree essential oil
Refresh Carpets/Rugs
1 cup Baking Soda (Depending on size)
10 drops of your favourite essential oil
Mix well, sprinkle all over rug or carpet, leave for at least 30 minutes and vacuum.
Heavy Duty Cleaner
For heavy duty cleaning such as the oven (I do not like using the self-clean function!) I simply sprinkle baking soda all over and then spray it with my all-purpose cleaner then let it sit for about 30 minutes. Wipe away with vinegar you'll be amazed at how well it works!
2. Purchase natural detergents/cleaners.
In addition to making your own cleaners there are also many great brands these days! Some of the ones I recommend and use are:
- Seventh Generation
- Method
- The Honest Company
- Mrs. Meyers
3. Replace Paper Towel with reusable cloths or rags.
You can simply use old shirts and towels cut into squares or purchase micro fiber cloths, they work way better than your old school paper towel! If you do use paper towel, please find one that is made from recycled materials (Both Seventh Generation and Cascades offer options.)!
4. Use Steam!
This is my favourite way to deep clean my floor! I spot clean using my all purpose cleaner throughout the week and then twice a week I steam them using my Shark Floor Steamer. It eliminates up to 99.99% of germs and bacteria without the use of ANY chemicals! If you've never used one I highly suggest adding one to your wish list! Be sure to look for one that comes with reusable microfiber pads!
5. Clean often!
If you find that you are needing heavy duty, foaming or chemical action it could be because you need to clean more often. By cleaning daily you cut down on tough grime, allergens and the time it takes! I clean one or two rooms daily in addition to a few small tasks which has worked really well! I find that my home is always clean with this routine. If you want an in depth post on my cleaning routine let me know!
* I purchased all the items above with my own money, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
