We are constantly exposed to chemicals in our world daily. There is exposure to “toxics” meaning any poisonous substances from chemical or biological sources. As well as “toxins” which are poisons only from biological sources either plant or animal.
In the last 50 years we have seen a dramatic increase in chemical production in the U.S. Many of you may recall the ban in 2012 of Bisphenol A (BPA), in baby bottles. It had been used since the 50’s to harden plastics in baby bottles, toys, and other products.
The water from our taps, the lotions we use, shampoos, and even house dust are all full of synthetic chemicals. Some natural products are expensive but worth the money, or you can learn to make them yourself.
In order to avoid using toxic cleaning chemicals, I want to share with you these homemade alternatives. Most of the ingredients you are likely to have in your kitchen cabinets.
Castile Soap Multi-Purpose Cleaner
This cleaner should be safe to use on any surface. If you’re using it on marble or granite countertops, avoid choosing citrus essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups distilled water
2 Tbsp. castile soap, or up to 1/4 cup if you want a soapier cleaner
15 drops lavender essential oil, or peppermint oil, or orange
INSTRUCTIONS:
Pour the water into a 16 ounce spray bottle ( use a funnel if needed)
Add the castile soap and essential oil. Shake gently.
Store at room temperature. To use, shake gently, spray on, leave it briefly, then wipe off with a damp cloth.
Vinegar Surface Cleaner
This version is good for any surface except granite or marble countertops.
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup distilled water
1 cup white distilled vinegar
15 drops essential oil such as lavender, peppermint, orange, or lemon
Alternatively, place 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary and the peel of 1-2 lemons in a jar with the water and vinegar instead of the essential oils. Let it sit for at least a few days, up to a few weeks, before using.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Pour all the ingredients into a 16 oz spray bottle ( use a funnel if needed)
Gently shake the cleaner
This cleaner will need to be stored in the fridge between uses due to the fresh lemon juice. To use: Gently shake the spray bottle before spraying the cleaner on the desired surface. Spray the cleaner and wipe off the surface with a damp cloth.
GLASS CLEANER
Get streak-free shine without that chemical smell.
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups water
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol)
1 to 2 drops orange essential oil for smell
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.
Spray onto windows, glass, or mirrors. Hint: Don’t clean windows on a hot sunny day, because the solution will dry too quickly and leave lots of streaks. For mirrors, spray the solution on a paper towel or soft cloth first before wiping.
OVEN CLEANER
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup baking soda
3 Tbsp of water
INSTRUCTIONS:
Place the baking soda in a bowl
Add the water a little bit at a time and mix carefully until a thick paste is formed. Add more or less water as needed.
Spread paste on oven surfaces, then wipe clean.
A good idea is to designate a space in your home for all of your cleaning supplies. Get everything organized.
Okay, now you have prepared your arsenal of non-toxic homemade cleaners, it’s time to get everything together and get moving.
