It’s surprising how many caustic and harmful chemicals are found in standard household cleansers. Have you ever left the bathroom coughing and gasping for breath after spraying the bathtub or shower with a basic cleaner?
Have your eyes ever watered as you spray down your kitchen countertops? This is your body sending you a clear signal that the chemicals in your cleansers are causing harm to your body. You shouldn’t have to hold your breath or wear goggles when you clean.
Put away the toxic cleansers and get ready to make your own. They’re safe, effective, and easy enough that you can use them daily.
Disinfectant Cleaner
Ingredients:
- Borax
- Liquid soap
- White vinegar
- Hot water
Directions: Mix 2 teaspoons of borax with 1/4 teaspoon liquid soap, 4 tablespoons white vinegar, and 3 cups hot water in a spray bottle.
Borax is a natural mineral that is odorless, colorless, and alkaline. It’s not reactive and can be mixed with most other cleaning agents. The alkaline nature kills most bacteria and when added to hot water it creates hydrogen peroxide which cleans and boosts the cleaning power of other ingredients. It’s important to note that borax is not risk free, though. In high doses it can cause respiratory and skin irritation. Be sure to rinse all surfaces.
Oven Cleaner
Ingredients:
- Baking soda
- Washing soda or soda ash
- Water
- Glass jar
Directions: In a glass jar, combine 1 cup baking soda and 1/4 cup of washing soda with enough water to make a paste. Apply to oven surfaces and let sit overnight. Wipe and rinse.
Shower and Tub Cleaner
Ingredients:
- Baking soda
- Liquid soap
- Water
- White vinegar
Directions: mix 1 1/2 cups baking soda, 1/2 cup liquid soap, 1/2 cup water and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar. Apply to tub and shower surfaces, scrub, and rinse clean.
Toilet Cleaner
Ingredients:
- Borax
- White vinegar
Directions: Before you go to bed at night, pour a cup of borax and a 1/4 cup of white vinegar into your toilet bowl. Let it sit overnight. In the morning a quick scrub is all you need for a fresh and clean toilet.
Glass Cleaner
Ingredients:
- Water
- White vinegar
You probably are already familiar with a basic DIY glass cleaner. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water into a spray bottle and use. It’s also great for a countertop cleaner. If you dislike the vinegar scent, you can add essential oil for the countertop cleaner. And basic elements like hydrogen peroxide work well to kill mold and mildew.
Making your own home cleaners is easy. However, keep in mind that the ingredients should still be kept out of the reach of children. Store in sealed containers and use daily to keep your home safe, clean, and toxin free.
