by rinn

Created on: April 22, 2009

Hurray! Spring is here. It is time to roll up the sleeves, put on some gloves and start cleaning-up. Before we embark on this yearly and often tedious task, take time to prepare and learn how to spring clean the green way. After all, we all just want our homes to be clean and tidy, why not save the environment at the same time. If you have not a clue where to start, here are some healthy green tips on cleaning:-

SOLUTION NO. 1 A general cleaning paste of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate and water can be used on:

- Stainless steel surfaces

- Chrome surfaces

- Fiberglass surfaces

- Ceramics

- Enamel fixtures (i.e. white-ware appliances, baking dishes)

For stubborn or old stains, moisten with water first and then cover with baking soda to leave overnight. Sprinkle salt when cleaning if abrasive action is needed otherwise just rinse and wipe off afterwards.

SOLUTION NO. 2 A cleaning spray using equal parts of white vinegar and water can be on:

- Coated surfaces (i.e. insides of ovens) to retard grease buildup

- Glass (i.e. shower doors, drinking glasses, spectacles) for sparkling clean finish

- Stainless steel surfaces to remove water spots

- Chrome and metal fixtures to remove lime deposits and for shine (soak fixtures in solution)

- Dishwasher rinse to remove spots (add 1 cup of vinegar in rinse compartment)

- Leather products to remove water stains

Boil equal parts of vinegar and water in a kettle and leave it overnight to remove lime deposits on heating elements.

SOLUTION NO. 3 A mixture of 2 tablespoons baking soda, cup white vinegar and 1 cup water boiled for 10 minutes can be used on:

- Non-stick cookware to remove stubborn stains

- No-wax flooring to remove grease (add 1 tbs. vegetable-oil based liquid soap and hot water instead of boiled water)

- Washable surfaces and paints to remove glue residue from price tags, stick-on hooks and decals (soak area with vinegar only for a few minutes before rubbing off)

SOLUTION NO. 4 Dusting dry cornstarch on:

- Papers and books to remove mildew (allow cornstarch to rest for a few days)

- Carpets to remove stains and grease spots (sprinkle cornstarch, rub onto stain and vacuum)

SOLUTION NO. 5 A cup of salt water and a cup of soda followed by a pan of boiling water can be used on:

- Clogged drains to dissolve grease immediately and open the drain

SOLUTION NO. 6 Rubbing alcohol on:

- Stainless steel surfaces to remove water spots and scum

- Mirrors to remove dull hazy stains

- Window sills for a freshly painted finish

SOLUTION NO. 7 Rubbing cream of tartar with a damp cloth to clean:

- Porcelain surfaces

SOLUTION NO. 8 A mixture of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon water can be used as:

- Timber furniture polish and scratch cover (leave for 5 minutes before buffing with a soft cloth)

SOLUTION NO. 9 Toothpaste with a little warm water can be used on:

- Silverware as a polish

- Basins and bathtubs

These nine natural solutions will do the cleaning sufficiently without jeopardizing your health or the environment. Tried and true recipes for generations, baking soda, corn flour and vinegar are easily available, economical and safe to use.

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