All Natural Household Cleaning Products
Many household cleaning products sold commercially can contain harmful or toxic ingredients that may have an adverse effect on health or the environment. Ingredients found in these products can include carcinogens or other substances that may cause allergic reactions. As an alternative to these products, consider switching to eco-friendly or all-natural household cleaning products that you can find readily in your kitchen. Does this Spark an idea?
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Distilled White Vinegar
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Due to its acidic properties, distilled white vinegar is a versatile cleaning product that can be effective against bacteria and germs. Other possible uses of vinegar are as a deodorizer for garbage disposal units, polisher for brass and remover of calcium deposits on faucets. Distilled white vinegar can also get rid of mineral deposits in a coffee maker, remove mildew in the bathroom, and clean and shine windows.
Sodium Bicarbonate/Baking Soda
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Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) has many uses. Although usually used as an antacid, it is also an inexpensive cleaning agent. By placing an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator, you can deodorize it or neutralize strong food odors. You can use it to freshen carpets, wash diapers, scour pots and clean a toilet bowl. To make a drain cleaner, pour 1 cup of both baking soda and 1 cup white vinegar sequentially into the drainpipe, wait 10 minutes and then pour in approximately 1 gallon of hot water.
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Castile Soap
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Made from a vegetable oil such as olive oil, castile soap in liquid form can be a cleaning product used as a degreaser and a general cleaner to mop floors or wash clothes. Liquid castile soap may also be suitable as a dishwashing detergent when combined with other natural ingredients such as water, vinegar and lemon juice.
Borax
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Borax (sodium borate) is a natural mineral substance that has a wide range of applications. Found deep within the earth, it also has a long history of use by man. For home cleaning, it is suitable as a laundry booster, insecticide, mold inhibitor, deodorizer and multipurpose cleaner for floors and bathrooms. Although a natural cleaning agent, borax should be stored properly and kept away from children and pets because if ingested it can be toxic. Likewise, people should wear gloves while using this product, as it can be a skin irritant for some people.
Washing Soda
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Washing soda (sodium carbonate) is an alkaline compound used to clean and remove stains from laundry. It can be a nontoxic alternative to bleach products. It also may be utilized to descale coffee machines of mineral deposits and to remove old wax from floors. However, it is best to wear gloves while cleaning with this product as it can be slightly caustic.
Other Natural Household Cleaning Products
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Many other natural ingredients can be good alternatives to the hazardous household cleaning products on the market. These can include isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, salt, lemon juice and essential oils. For example, to polish brass, you can make a mixture of salt and vinegar. Likewise, by adding a few drops of an essential oil, you can make an all-purpose, scented cleaner for household use. Sometimes, to clean a home, all you may need is plain water, sponges and a mop.
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References
Resources
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