March 16, 2009

Do-It-Yourself Cleaners

          “Go green”, “Green cleaning”, “Environmental friendly cleaner” are all terms that are now being used to describe household cleaning products. An alternative to buying “green” cleaners is to make it yourself.

          Many modern synthetic cleaning products are based on age-old formulas using natural ingredients that were passed down through the generations because the chemistry was right.  Modern chemistry and manufacturing made mass producing cleaners possible and the concept of making your own cleaners went by the wayside.

          Going back to the original naturally derived ingredients can be a way to make cleaning products that work, don’t pollute, don’t aggravate allergies and also save you money.  First, let’s review the characteristics and cleaning abilities of some of the original “green” cleaners.

          Baking Soda - cleans, deodorizes, softens water, scours. Baking soda is an abrasive and does a great job scrubbing.  It does a great job scrubbing. Baking soda has a high pH, and is a natural and effective deodorizer, that does not mask, but actually eliminates odors at the source, by changing the pH and neutralizing the odor in its tracks.

          Soap - unscented soap in liquid form, flakes, powders or bars is biodegradable and will clean just about anything. To be “green” friendly, avoid using soaps which contain petroleum distillates.

          Lemon - Lemons are one of the strongest food acids and are effective against most household bacteria.  Using lemons adds antibacterial and antiseptic properties and is also a natural bleaching agent, Use lemon juice to dissolve soap scum and hard water deposits.  Clean & shine brass and copper with lemon juice.

          Borax - (sodium borate) cleans, deodorizes, disinfects, softens water, cleans wallpaper, painted walls and floors.

          White Vinegar - White vinegar is an acid.  Its unique properties make it an effective grease cutter and it will stop the growth of mold and mildew.   Vinegar is non-toxic and does not leave any residue or aroma.  Be careful to use only plain white vinegar, and not any flavored or apple vinegar. Since it is an acid, do not use vinegar on marble or stone as it will etch the surface.. Use it by:-mixing 1 part water to 1 part vinegar for an all purpose cleaner.

          Washing Soda - Soda is sodium carbonate decahydrate, a mineral. Washing soda cuts grease, removes stains, softens water, cleans wall, tiles, sinks and tubs. Use care, as washing soda can irritate mucous membranes. Do not use on aluminum.

          Isopropyl Alcohol - is an excellent disinfectant

          Cornstarch - can be used to clean windows, polish furniture, shampoo carpets and rugs.

          Now for some “do-it-self” cleaners.

          CREAMY SOFT SCRUBBER
Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into a container, and add enough liquid detergent to make a texture like frosting. Scoop the mixture onto a sponge, and wash the surface. This is excellent for cleaning tubs and showers as it rinses easily and does not leave a gritty residue.

          WINDOW CLEANER
1/4-1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent
3 tablespoons vinegar
2 cups water
Put all the ingredients into a spray bottle, shake and use as you would a commercial brand. Use crumpled newspaper or cotton cloth to clean. Be sure to follow the recipe, as using too strong a solution of vinegar will etch the glass and eventually cloud it.

          OVEN CLEANER
1 cup or more baking soda
Water
A squirt or two of liquid detergent

Sprinkle water generously over the bottom of the oven, then cover the grime with enough baking soda that the surface is totally white. Sprinkle some more water over the top. Let the mixture set overnight.

          FURNITURE POLISH
1/2 teaspoon oil, such as olive

1/4 cup vinegar or fresh lemon juice
Mix the ingredients in a glass jar. Dab a soft rag into the solution and wipe onto wood surfaces.  Seal jar with tight lid and store indefinitely

          Toilet Bowl Cleaner:

 Mix 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 cup vinegar, pour into basin and let it set for a few minutes. Scrub with brush and rinse. A mixture of borax (2 parts) and lemon juice (one part) will also work.
          For freshening your home without using manufactured air fresheners, try-

- Baking soda or vinegar with lemon juice in small dishes

• Having houseplants helps reduce odors in the home.
• Simmer vinegar (1 tbsp in 1 cup water) on the stove while cooking. To remove fishy and onion odors from utensils and cutting boards, wipe them with vinegar and wash in soapy water.
• Keep fresh coffee grounds on the counter.
• Grind up a slice of lemon or orange in the garbage disposal.
• Simmer water and cinnamon or other spices on stove.
• Place bowls of fragrant dried herbs and flowers in room.  
          Make sure to keep all home-made formulas clearly-labeled, and out of the reach of children.