How to Make All Purpose Cleaners: Frugal and Green

Learn how to make your own all purpose cleaners using common household products. These natural alternatives are safe for your families (reducing the chemicals in our homes) and also help our environment. These recipes are a great way to save money compared to the expensive chemical cleaners.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White Vinegar
• Borax
• Castile Soap (available in health food stores)
• Essential Oil
• Baking Soda
• Salt
• Washing Soda (See additional resources link #1 for source)

1. RECIPE 1:
   
   Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle. This makes a great all purpose cleaner for counter tops and quick clean ups all over the house. The acetic acid in the vinegar kills viruses, germs, bacteria, and mold. For stronger clean up jobs, full strength white vinegar can be used.
   
   NOTE: Do not use on marble.

2. RECIPE 2:
   
   In a two cup glass measuring cup mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and 1 teaspoon of borax. Add 1 cup of hot water and stir until the borax is dissolved. Let this mixture cool a few minutes and then pour into a 16 ounce spray bottle. Add more water to the bottle leaving enough room to add 1/4 cup of castile soap. To scent, add 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oil.

3. RECIPE 3:
   
   Baking soda on a damp sponge or cloth can be used for a mild abrasive cleaner. It cleans and deodorizes all kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

4. RECIPE 4:
   
   Mix vinegar and salt together for a stronger abrasive surface cleaner.

5. RECIPE 5:
   
   Combine 3 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon washing soda, 1/2 teaspoon castile soap, and 2 cups of hot water. This solution can be placed in a spray bottle or bucket to clean surfaces.

Resources

• Soaps Gone By - Resource for hard to find cleaning ingredients
• Frugal Patti - Frugal Living Tips

[iamageniuster]

on 11/5/2008 Nice article. Great thinking.

[jkg0679]

on 11/5/2008 Thanks for this. You have a lot of great articles! Keep up the great work!

[kllmomof2]

on 11/4/2008 Gotta love vinegar! You can use it for everything!