Spring is officially here, and with it comes dust, mud, and of course… allergenic pollen.Are you wiping it? as dust accumulates Or maybe you've brought in a small army of commercial cleaning products when cleaning hard-to-reach, dirty spots in your house, like under the couch or behind a bookshelf.
While these brand name spray bottles, aerosols, and wipes are effective and powerful, they are not always the best for you or the environment. Some studies suggest that inhaling fumes from these products can be downright dangerous to your respiratory system. It can also cause your furniture to wear out faster, especially if you use it excessively.
But good news! You can make a natural all-purpose cleaner using ingredients you already have at home. Mixing DIY cleaning solutions is not only safer and more environmentally friendly, but also cheaper. And it works. From kitchen counters to bathroom sinks, there's nothing you can't clean with this easy-to-get liquid mixture. That said, there are some limitations to anything containing vinegar. Be sure to check the FAQ after the jump for a detailed list of usage instructions.
caveat: Never mix ammonia or bleach. The two produce toxic chloramine gas, which can be fatal if inhaled. Always read the product's ingredient list before mixing with other products. Contact Poison Control for more information.
Things necessary:
How to make:
- Grab an empty spray bottle and add all the ingredients, reserving the water until the end. Use vinegar to remove dirt and grime that are difficult to clean. If you're looking for a non-abrasive spray that can be used on virtually anything, use soap.
- Pour distilled water until the bottle is full. Depending on the size of the bottle, you may not be able to use all the water. This is okay. A moderately strong solution will not damage furniture or finishes.
- Shake the bottle well to blend the ingredients.
- Spray as you clean using a cloth or paper towel to remove dust, streaks, and dirt.
why not use soap and Vinegar?
Castile soap and vinegar serve two different purposes. The former is more gentle and will wipe away any dust or dirt left on the surface. Vinegar is more powerful, and when applied to areas like sink drains and bathtub grouting, a little acid and extra oil can remove dirt and grime in need. The two ingredients also don't mix well, making it easy for the contents of the spray bottle to separate when not in use.
How long does this all-purpose cleaner last?
Approximately 1 month if stored in a dry and cool environment.
Why doesn't this cleaner contain baking soda?
The properties of baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) are said to essentially cancel each other out when combined. That said, it's better to use baking soda alone as a stain remover or sprinkle it on surfaces as a mild abrasive before spraying and cleaning.
read more: These pantry essentials will dissolve ugly stains on your cookware in minutes
Why Castile soap?
Most often made from olive oil, this non-toxic, biodegradable and eco-friendly ingredient is safe, effective and won't damage most furniture. It can be safely used on almost everything around the house.
Why use vinegar and what not to use it with?
Vinegar kills bacteria on surfaces and is great for cleaning glass and mirrors, giving them a spotless shine. However, do not use it on sensitive stones such as granite or marble. Damage to the protective sealant can leave a permanent and unattractive cloudy mark.
Are some essential oils better than others?
Scent is completely up to you and your personal preference. However, some have additional benefits. For example, tea tree, lemon, peppermint, and eucalyptus are natural antibacterial agents, and grapefruit is an excellent preservative and disinfectant. Be sure to find out which essential oils may be toxic to pets.
Why distilled water?
If you want to limit the amount of potential bacterial growth in the solution, distilled water will accomplish this. Learn how to make distilled water at home in 5 easy steps.