by Lillyswawa

Created on: November 23, 2009

Cleaning your home with chemicals may yield results but, the respiratory system, as well as the skin, eyes, nose, and throat, may suffer the adverse affects of repeated exposure to these harsh toxins.

NATURAL cleaners will do the job and leace you feeling better about your home and your family's health.

BAKING SODA Baking soda makes a good scouring powder to remove light soil and stains on sinks, counter tops, and appliances. Mixed with warm water, it makes an all-around , light-duty cleaning agent; full strength, it can keep drains clear.

WHITE VINEGAR White vinegar is a good all-purpose cleaner and deodorizer. Mixed with water, it cuts grease and dissolves film on glass and windows.

LEMON JUICE Lemon juice can remove tarnish and mineral stains. It can also cut grease.

CLUB SODA Club soda will remove wine stains, shine tile, and clean glass tabletops and windows.

SALT A mild abrasive, salt can absorb grease or wine stains. Mixed with white vinegar or lemon juice, it cleans copper and brass.

In addition to the above natural cleaners, you may even wish to make cheaper, more eco-friendly HOMEMADE cleaners yourself, using a combination of ingredients commonly found in most households. Label all containers clearly.

BATHROOM AND TILE CLEANER Mix 1 cup white vinegar in 1 gallon warm water. Spray a small area. Leave on spray for 1 minute and wipe off with clear water.

MIRROR CLEANER Mix 2 cups isopropyl rubbing alcohol, 2 tablespoons liguid dishwashing detergent, and 2 cups water. Pour into a spry bottle. Properly ventilate area before use.

Tip: * Denatured alcohol works great by itself to remove ink stains from fabric. Dampen the area around the stain with denatured alcohol. Place the stain face-down on some paper towels and apply alcohol to the back of the stain. Allow the paper towels to absorb the stain. Repeat, if necessary. Rinse and launder. *

PLASTIC LAMINATE AND APPLIANCE SCRUBBER Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge (wring out well), rub the stain, and wipe off the surface with a clean damp cloth.

FLOOR CLEANER Mix 1/2 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon warm water. Wear rubber gloves when using.

Don't reuse old cleaning product bottles; reactions can occur between products left in the bottle and new mixtures. And never put homemade cleaners in recognizable food containers. Label with the names and amounts of all ingredients and directions for use clearly. Properly ventilating a work area is best, even when using natural products.

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