Indoor air pollution ranks among the top environmental dangers, and the majority of that pollution comes from the cleaners that we use regularly. Often we don’t even think to relate our symptoms to the product we use! Yet, some immediate effects might be headaches, nausea, irritation to the nose or eyes, and dizziness.
It’s hard to believe that one of the top pollutants is caused by something that could be eliminated. The problem is, then, how would we keep our homes clean?
The good news: there are options.
Chemical-laden cleaning products aren’t the only means of keeping your home nice and clean. Homemade, non-toxic cleaning products are easy to use, fun to make, and are better for us and the environment.
Here are natural products you can start replacing those chemical products with now:
Baking Soda Baking soda is great for deodorizing, shining, and cutting through grease and grime.
Castile Soap Castile soap is made from plant oils and cleans surfaces and dishes. Vinegar Vinegar is a powerhouse cleaner that eliminates soap scum, grease, and grime. Lemon Juice Natural lemon juice is excellent for cleaning mildew and mold, as well as for shining hard surfaces. Olive Oil Olive oil is suitable for both cleaning and polishing.
Try this recipe for a safe and effective all-purpose cleaner (except for wood):
-¾ cup of water -¼ cup rubbing alcohol -5 to 10 drops of peppermint or lemon oil -1 squirt of natural dish soap
Pour all ingredients into a 16-ounce spray bottle. Shake well before spraying onto a surface, and then wipe clean with a towel.