Cleaning Products Simplified

Have you ever read the labels of your cleaning products? Go ahead, take a look. Most likely the ingredients section will be loaded with hard-to-pronounce chemical names. Some of these chemicals are effective cleansers, some are preservatives, and some are added for fragrance or color. But the majority of them are not good for our health, and some are downright dangerous.

(On a side note I personally began to have heart palpitations when exposed to bleach, ammonia and whatever chemicals they use for cleaning on my job!)

Some cleaning product manufacturers have begun to produce safer options. These "green" cleaners contain more natural ingredients and less of the dangerous chemicals. But few of them are truly all-natural. It's important to read the labels carefully. Even if the ingredients include unidentified "fragrance," there could be hidden chemicals.

If you want to completely avoid chemicals in your cleaning products, the best way to do so is to make your own out of natural ingredients. There are many common household ingredients that do a fine job of cleaning windows, surfaces, dishes and more.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is well known for its odor absorbency, but did you know that it's also an excellent stain remover? It can be safely used on tile, glass, china and most fabrics. It's a wonderful scrubbing aid for baked-on food in pots and pans as well.

Hydrogen Peroxide

One of the biggest concerns of those who are reluctant to use natural cleaners is killing germs. Bleach and other chemicals are often believed to be the only things that will get the job done. But hydrogen peroxide is a milder and safer alternative. It is safe for use on virtually any surface.

White Vinegar

Vinegar is also great for killing germs and deodorizing. It's ideal for cleaning coffee pots, countertops and cookware. It may also be used with baking soda to unclog drains. Vinegar is safe for most surfaces, but caution should be used with fabrics. Vinegar can dissolve the fibers of acetate fabrics.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has a pleasant scent, and it is also great at cutting grease. It can lighten stains on surfaces and fabrics, and does an excellent job of removing tarnish on many metals. It should not, however, be used on silver.

These ingredients can be used on their own or mixed with other common ingredients to make cleaners suitable for almost any job. For a powerful all-purpose cleaner and sanitizer, you can mix 2 teaspoons of borax, 4 tablespoons of vinegar, 3 cups of hot water and 1/4 tablespoon of liquid soap. A simple mixture of half vinegar and half water is great for cleaning windows, and a mixture of baking soda and liquid soap makes an effective countertop scrub.

Having a clean home doesn't have to mean the use of heavy-duty chemicals. You can find almost everything you need in your kitchen. Making your own natural cleaners might take a little more effort, but it is less expensive and better for your own and your family's health.

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