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It is time once again to roll up our sleeves for a little spring cleaning, but with growing concerns about the safety of household cleaners, particularly for those of us with kids or pets, and those who are allergy and asthma sufferers, what is a good spring cleaner to do? The solution is natural cleaners. Natural cleaners include vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and alcohol, and they can be used to clean, disinfect, and eliminate odors. Natural cleaners have been used for years and are proven to be safe and effective, and they are less expensive than a lot of the leading name brand cleaning products out there.

Vinegar Cleaners: Vinegar removes dirt and soap scum and can be used as a disinfectant and a deodorizer. In a spray bottle mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 cup of water and shake well. Use this spray to clean sinks, tubs, and counter tops. To get rid of tough stains and soap scum in the tub, make the mixture in a bowl and heat it for a few seconds in the microwave. Pour the solution on to the surface and let it set for ten minutes before scrubbing. To clean laminated and hardwood floors, mix 1/2 cup of vinegar with a gallon of water. Mop the floor, and let it dry. You can also use straight vinegar to clean toilets. After flushing, pour a little vinegar in to the toilet and scrub clean.

Baking Soda to Eliminate Odors: Sprinkle baking soda on carpet or furniture upholstery. Let it set overnight. Then vacuum to eliminate odors. Also, place a box of baking soda in your refrigerator and freezer to eliminate food odors and in cedar chests and trunks to keep clothes and linens smelling fresh.

Baking Soda as an Abrasive Cleaner: For light cleaning, sprinkle baking soda on sinks and countertops, then rub with a damp sponge or cloth. For tough jobs, make a paste with baking soda and a little water. Apply the paste to your tub, sinks, countertops, and oven and let it set for ten or fifteen minutes. This will make the stains, soap scum, and tub rings easier to remove. Use a sponge to scrub the stains away.

Natural Lemon Furniture Polish: In a spray bottle mix 1/2 cup of lemon juice and 1 cup of olive oil. Shake well. Spray on wooden furniture, and wipe with a cloth.

Glass Cleaner: Mix 1 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, 1 cup water, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar in a spray bottle and shake. Spray on windows and mirrors. Then wipe it clean with a cloth, paper towels, or newspapers. Using newspapers will help prevent streaking.

Do not let environmental and health safety concerns get in the way of your housekeeping this spring. If you are unhappy with the cleaning products on your grocery store shelves, give these oldies but goodies a try, and you will be on your way to a naturally clean home.

Learn more about this author, Jerri Rivers.
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