I have been using natural methods to clean my house for a while now. The result has been that I have been breathing easier and enjoying a fresher, cleaner environment. Most of the cleaners that are sold on the cleaning aisle of most stores are just toxic, plain and simple. There are natural ingredients that can be put together quickly and easily that do just as good a job, if not a better one, of cleaning and disinfecting the home.
Natural All Purpose Cleaner
This general all purpose cleaner recipe can be used as a spray to clean counter tops and surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom. It can also be used on other surfaces around the house, however some people may choose to make up another batch of cleaner for wood that includes olive oil and/or beeswax to "feed" the wood. That being said, I do admit that I use this general purpose cleaner on all of my household surfaces, including glass, with no problems at all.
To make: Simply take an 8 ounce spray bottle and fill it about 75% of the way with water. (Some people prefer distilled water, as this type of water is said to be more pure and won't leave any mineral residue on surfaces.) To this water add 1/4 cup of vinegar, for its cleaning power. Also add a drop of natural non toxic plant based dish soap, if desired. And, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Tea tree oil is a popular one to use, but all essential oils have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Clean Floors Naturally
It is so easy to clean floors without toxic chemicals. This easy to make cleaning solution is said to be good even on hard wood floors. However, I do recommend that you remove most of the solution and apply a damp mop to hardwood floors, as you never want any standing water left on them.
To make: Simply pour about a cup of white vinegar to a few gallons of water. Use your favorite type of mop and clean floors as you normally would. This solution will clean very well, and will not leave a residue.
Making a Natural Air Freshener
Air fresheners can add that special finishing touch to a clean house. If you are using an air freshener that relies on man made chemicals to give it its smell, you are really missing out. The fresh, nice smelling scent of an all natural air freshening spray can't be matched, and it is actually healthful as opposed to most toxic ones.
To make: Take a small air freshener spray bottle.You can save one that you have bought and reuse it, if it is not aerosol and you wash it thoroughly. Or, you can pick one up from a local store or buy it online. Fill the spray bottle about 80% full of distilled water. Then add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Peppermint oil is so nice to use. It gives a fresh, invigorating, yet sweet scent. However, any essential oil is likely to make a good air freshener. You may find that you want several different scents. You can also mix oils together to create custom scents.
Since these ingredients may have a tendency to separate, it is important to shake well before using. I hope that these recipes and ideas will help you to live a more non toxic, natural life. Try these homemade cleaning recipes as soon as you can. You won't be sorry!
Angel Chavis - Angel Chavis lives in NC with her husband, daughter, and various pets. She is a Christian, wife, homeschool mom, writer, student, and ...
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