Make the Switch From Toxic to Green Cleaning
Your home is a haven to dirt, germs and mould. While there are commercial chemical products that can alleviate them, these are not always the best option where both your health and budget is concerned. Whether your goal is to save money or to switch to more natural products, there are eco cleaners that can do the job as well if not better than commercial, toxic cleaners.
The advantage of using eco cleaners or home remedies is that they usually involve materials that are already found in the home. Homeowners need not buy any additional products to help clean, resulting in large savings each year. Also, it provides a great alternative for those who are concerned about the environment and their health. In recent years, many studies have shown that the use of commercial cleaners contributes to pollution and can be poor for your general health. If you are particularly sensitive, some of the chemicals can have particularly harmful effects.
Marks from crayons and markers on the wall are almost unavoidable for a house with children (I have avid artists in the home). Before you try anything on your walls, try the simple formula of using a hairdryer to melt crayon stains on surfaces and wipe with a wet rag. You can also use water and some elbow grease. If the marks do not come off, use a damp sponge to moisten the affected area and sprinkle some baking soda to clean the marks off. Another option is to use toothpaste to get rid of markers on the walls. Put a little toothpaste on the sponge and apply directly to the spots. Rinse the wall well with warm water after getting rid of the markers. For stains made by permanent markers, use rubbing alcohol.
Gum can sometimes stick to clothing and furniture. They can be very difficult to remove without the proper techniques. There are many stories that indicate that putting peanut butter can help. However, the best method is to use rubbing alcohol. Scrape off as much of the gum as possible and then use the alcohol to help get the rest off.
For the best overall sustainable cleaning product in the home, I use vinegar or lemon. Dilute them with some water and apply as you would any other cleaning product. Aside from their natural disinfecting properties, vinegar and lemon also get rid of unwanted odors such as the lingering smell of fried food.
Baking Soda is another must have. You can use it to unclog your drains. Combined with vinegar it provides an effective way to clear up organic matter trapped in the drain. I also put a small bowl of baking soda in the fridge to keep odors at bay -it keeps it smelling clean and fresh.
For a good all round eco cleaner, mix 1 cup of very hot water, 1 tbsp vinegar and 1 tbsp of borax – throw in a few drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus or lavender. This mixture is great for spraying the kitchen and bathroom before wiping with a cloth.
When it comes to using home remedies, it is important to do a test patch on the small, inconspicuous part of the walls or furniture to make sure that the material or fabric does not react adversely to it. Some of the warning signs that should be watched out for are changes in color or fading.