Store bought cleaners can be found in also every household, dormitory, and office. These cleaning products often contain dangerous chemicals which can be harmful to the human body. These chemicals can end up on food, utensils, furniture, children’s toys, and clothes and potentially have adverse health effects. Most cleaning supplies contribute to greenhouse gas emissions in some form, whether it be the packaging they are stored in or the fumes they give off. Some products can also contaminate soil and groundwater if disposed of improperly.
To avoid chemicals that may be dangerous to both your body and the environment, you can easily make homemade cleaning solutions with everyday household ingredients. Making your own cleaners will also allow you to reuse spray bottles and other cleaning containers, reducing the amount of plastic containers you buy and dispose of! Here are a few simple recipes that you can try at home:
Glass Cleaner
Ingredients
- 2 cups of water
- ½ cup white or cider vinegar
- 1-2 drops of essential oil (optional)
All-Purpose Cleaner
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons baking soda
- 1 quart warm water
Floor Cleaner
Ingredients
- 1 cup vinegar
- ½ cup baking soda
- 8-10 cups hot water
- 1 tablespoon borax
- 1 tablespoon washing soda
- 30 drops essential oil (optional)
Air Freshener
Ingredients
- Several orange peels
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Several cloves
- 4 cups water boiling water
Dishwasher Soap and Laundry Detergent
Ingredients
- ½ cup borax
- 1 cup washing soda
- ½ cup soap flakes or grated plain bar soap
Written by Alyssa Lemire, Class of 2017
Photo by http://www.thebluediamondgallery.com/pictures/cleaning01-lg.jpg
An interesting way of cleaning, I like the ecological approach in all matters
Interestingly, cider vinegar and essential oil these are natural products and can not cause harm if used in the recommended proportions.
I just want to add another eco-friendly cleaning recipe. Take ten black tea bags and brew them in two liters of hot water for approximately 1 hour. When the tea cools off, get a clean soft cloth and apply a few of drops at a time. This recipe is great for cleaning wooden floors and furniture.