How to Make Green Housecleaning Supplies

With all the toxic chemicals that are used in modern cleaning supplies, it is beneficial to have a basic understanding of how to create your own non-toxic, green house cleaners. With just a few easy ingredients, you can create several different cleaners that will address most of your cleaning needs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baking soda
• Distilled white vinegar
• Dr. Bronner's liquid soap
• Small bowl or jar
• Spray bottle
• Tap water

Surface cleaner and scrubber

1. Add two parts baking soda and one part liquid soap in a small bowl or glass jar. For most jobs about 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of soap is enough.

2. Stir the mixture fully. The final product should have the consistency of a thin lotion or frosting.

3. Use a sponge or rag to clean the desired area and repeat steps if more cleaner is required.

Window cleaner

4. Combine one part vinegar with four parts water in a spray bottle.

5. Add a small amount of liquid soap. For most mixtures a few drops is sufficient.

6. Shake the mixture and use just like a commercial window cleaner. The mixture can be stored, but for your next cleaning it may be necessary to add an additional drop of soap.

All-purpose disinfectant

7. Combine one part vinegar with one part water in spray bottle.

8. Spray on the area to be cleaned and allow to sit for five minutes.

9. Wipe the area with a clean rag.

10. Use a higher ratio of vinegar to water for more disinfecting power.

Tips & Warnings

• The scrubbing mixture will not keep for long periods of time. It is best to make a new mixture every time you clean.
• Do not combine baking soda and vinegar. The baking soda neutralizes the disinfecting properties of the vinegar.

References

• "Green Housekeeping;" Ellen Sandbeck; 2008
• Care2, How to make a green cleaning kit