Cleaning products don’t have to all be intense chemical solutions that you have to worry about your kids getting into. As the world shifts its focus to more environmentally friendly solutions, more companies are starting to produce “eco-friendly” products though those tend to be on the pricier side.
Luckily you don’t have to burst your budget for your daily cleaning routine as there are actually many natural cleaners that can be found right in your own kitchen. From lemon juice to baking soda, here is a list of six alternative natural cleaners to start using for your cleaning needs.
1. Lemon Juice
The acidic component of this tangy fruit makes it an all-star cleaner for getting rid of mildew and mold. Its acidity is also great for dissolving soap scum and hard water deposits from bathroom and kitchen sinks.
Finally, this fruit can also be used to shine hard surfaces such as brass and copper. As a bonus, it leaves your house feeling extra clean with a heavenly natural lemon scent.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a power player in the cleaning world for its variety of uses. It is a natural deodorizer so many people leave an open box in the refrigerator and freezer to absorb food odors.
It can be dumped in trash cans, laundry, and even smelly shoes for a fresh change. It also can cut through grease and grime similar to other commercial non-abrasive cleansers.
3. Vinegar
With the acidic qualities of this common kitchen staple, vinegar matches the cleaning powers of some of the best all-purpose cleaners. It can be combined with water to make a cleaning solution for bathtubs, toilets, sinks, countertops, and kitchen appliances.
Vinegar can also be used as a natural fabric softener for washing clothes or a solution for cleaning your washing machine.
4. Olive Oil
This kitchen oil is not only great for dipping bread but it also works as an effective cleaner and polisher. Use it to rub into scratched leather furniture or work it into wood furniture for some extra conditioning.
5. Essential Oils
As aromatherapy has steadily gained in popularity, essential oils have emerged into the cleaning scene as well. Pure essential oils can be used to destroy certain microbes such as bacteria, fungus, and viruses.
They also help in breaking down down grease in grime when used in conjunction with warm water. Finally, their aromatic smells can be added in water and used as an air spray to freshen up the house.
6. Castile Soap
Though not a common kitchen product, this natural style of soap is made from 100 percent plant oils. It can be used to scrub soap and break down grime in both your kitchen and your bathroom. It can also be mixed with hot water to use as an effective mopping solution.
Switching to all-natural cleaning products doesn’t have to break your bank. Try using the alternative cleaning powers of some of these products commonly found in the kitchen to make your house fresh and clean without all the harsh chemical smell.
Finally, we applaud you for attempting to switch to these natural alternatives! Kudos for being environmentally friendly.