When the snow starts to fall I fall down with cabin fever. Being trapped indoors makes me restless, however it is a great time to get some much needed cleaning done around the house. Only downside to cleaning in the winter is you can’t open a window to air out the cleaning fumes from all the harsh chemicals. That is why I have taken to using homemade cleaning products. Homemade cleaning products are inexpensive, less harmful to people and pets and have no obnoxious and potentially harmful smells. Below are the recipes for a few of my favorite homemade cleaning products. The best part of these recipes are you most likely have everything you need in your pantry or under the sink, that means no need to leave your warm home to brave the elements.
All Purpose Cleaner
¼ cup vinegar
4 tablespoons baking soda
4 cups water
Mix ingredients and pour into spray bottle. This cleaner can be used on shower doors, windows, and mirrors.
Furniture Polish
¼ cup Lemon Juice
½ cup Olive Oil
Pour ingredients into a spray bottle and shake well. Spray small amount on furniture and wipe down with soft cloth.
Floor Cleaner
½ cup White Vinegar
1 gallon hot water
Safe for linoleum, tile, and hardwood
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
½ cup vinegar
¼ cup lemon juice
Baking soda
Pour vinegar and lemon juice into a spray bottle, shake. Spray toilet bowl down and then sprinkle with baking soda. Let sit for 5-10 minutes and then come back and scrub down with a toilet brush.
Scum Scrubber
½ cup baking soda
2 tablespoons liquid soap
Mix to make paste. Using a cloth or sponge, rub surface with paste to remove soap scum and grime. Rinse away with warm water.
Carpet Deodorizer
1 cup baking soda
¼ cup dried basil
Mix ingredients and store in jar or air tight container. To use: Sprinkle onto carpet. Wait half an hour and then vacuum carpet.
Let us know what you think. Do you use any homemade cleaning solutions?
In place of fabric softener, I use equal parts white vinegar and water.
Very useful article!