Discover the 5 Cleaning Products You’re Already Eating

Last month I was helping a friend clean house and probably used every disinfectant and bleach product known to man. I specifically remember the stainless steel cleaner, that when sprayed, singed every nose hair within a 20 mile radius. After using about three different products I noticed a red itchy rash forming on my left wrist.

The time had come to make a switch. The only problem was that I wasn’t sure what to switch to. A product off the shelf that claimed to be better for the environment? Or using ingredients I already owned? I finally found my answer!! So here are the 5 organic secrets to a guilt-free clean house.

1. Lemon Juice: De-greaser and antibacterial Use: Tubs, dishes, pans, cutting boards, floors - you use the lemon halves as scrubbers.
2. Vinegar: Antibacterial, Whitener Use: Mix with water to wash windows, floors, tubs, sinks, or to soak your utensils (about an hour).
3. Hydrogen Peroxide: Whitener, Bacteria Fighter - loosens oxidated substances Use: Tubs (mildew), as a soak for your Utensils or Toothbrush (couple minutes will do).
4. Baking Soda: Mild Abrasive, Odor Absorber Use: With Salt for Tubs, Sinks and with vinegar for scrubbing bubbles.
5. Salt: Abrasive (Mildew, Tubs, Food on Dishes, Sinks)

Tips for Use:

• Determine the ingredient amount by the area or items that you are cleaning.
• Always have a squirt bottle filled with 1/2 vinegar and 1/2 water for your kitchen and bathroom. Also, it would be easier for you to put everything else in a labeled, easy-to-pour container.
• A couple of drops of your favorite essential oil can add a lovely fragrance to your toilet or water to clean your floor.
• To clean any rag or cloth just soak it in Hydrogen Peroxide, then run it through the washer.
• If the lemon halves with salt are not enough scrub for the tub then try the Twist Loofah Sponge.
• For toilets use baking soda.  If you need something stronger add vinegar to the mix and let it soak.  This is safe for septic tanks.

Remember, making this transition may be difficult for some of us who have been raised on using bleaches and other chemicals. So don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Make the transition slowly and eventually you will be all green and no gunk!