When choosing to go green, look for cleaning products that combine a natural and safe eco-friendly approach with a determination to make effective and convenient cleaning products. With the rising trend in alternative cleaning products, many companies may promote themselves as green without giving consumers adequate information and proof of their claims.
A safer approach when aiming to switch to green cleaning methods is to use ingredients you may already have at home:
Lemon juice cuts through grease, removes stains, and deodorizes. It also acts as a bleaching agent when exposed to the sun. Using lemons in your cleaning routine also leaves a fresh, natural, citrus scent.
Baking soda is a natural sodium bicarbonate that is an excellent all-around cleaner that can be used all over your home. It is also a natural deodorizer, and is great for use in the fridge, basement, or litter boxes. Sprinkling it over the carpet before vacuuming is also useful in absorbing odors. Mixing baking soda with water and spreading this mixture in the oven will loosen baked on grease and grime. Safe to use around food, a baking soda and water paste is also ideal for cleaning the refrigerator.
Distilled white vinegar is about as multipurpose as baking soda. It is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant, it breaks up grease and dirt, lifts out mineral deposits, and helps cut through mold and soap scum. Use it as a spray, mixed with water, to clean windows, and even as a natural spider-repellant. Mixing vinegar with organic salts will give it extra power and scrubbing action. Vinegar mixed with hot water is also an excellent floor cleaner.
Olive oil is an excellent, all natural treatment for wood. Use alone, or mix it with lemon juice for a safe and effective furniture polish.
Plant-derived essential oils may be used for added fragrance. Some essential oils have the added benefit of acting as natural disinfectants and even antifungal agents. Eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and tea tree oils are popular essential oils.
For more information on healthy green cleaning and green living, please log on to greencleancertified.com and maidbrigade.com. For more information on “Household Cleaning Products and Breast Cancer”, please watch our video at greencleancertified.com/greentv.
