Commercially-produced household cleaners are not only expensive, but they are oftentimes unhealthy. They contain volatile organic compounds and other chemicals that lower indoor air quality and cause unpleasant symptoms. Make your own natural homemade cleaners with common ingredients you already have. Here are 4 recipes:
Homemade All-Purpose Cleaners
All-purpose cleaner is likely the most commonly used cleaning solution in your household. Unfortunately, there are chemicals used in commercially produced cleaners that are unhealthy to breathe. It is easy to make your own all-purpose cleaner, and much more affordable. All you need are equal parts of white vinegar and water. Add something to make it smell good, like lemon rinds, springs of rosemary, or essential oils. Use this cleaner on most surfaces except stone, like granite and marble countertops.
Natural Granite Cleaner
Granite is a popular material for kitchen and bathroom countertops, but many household cleaners are too harsh for it. Countertops see a lot of use and need to be cleaned often. Specialty granite cleaners are expensive, and they contain chemicals that harm your indoor air quality. Making your own granite cleaner with things you already have around the house is easy and cheap. Save an old 16-ounce spray bottle, wash it out, and fill it with ½ cup rubbing alcohol, 1 ½ cups of warm water, and ½ teaspoon of dish soap. Add a few drops of essential oil for a fresh scent.
Heavy-Duty Scrub
This scrub is a great remedy for stubborn rust stains on porcelain or enamel sinks and tubs. Commercially-made heavy-duty scrubs contain harsh chemicals. This homemade alternative only uses a lemon half and Borax powder. Borax is a natural mineral that is often also used as a laundry detergent. Simply cut the lemon in half, dip it in Borax, and rub it on the stain.
Homemade Cleaners for Windows
The classic blue glass cleaner sold in stores contains volatile organic compounds, which cause unpleasant symptoms when breathed and long-term health complications. Luckily, making your own glass cleaner is simple and works just as well. Combine 2 cups of water with ½ cup of white vinegar and ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol. Then make it smell nice with a few drops of essential oil.
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