How to Clean Your Home Naturally

In 2001 I gave birth to my son and became suddenly aware of the potential dangers all around me that could harm my child. Secondhand cigarette smoke, drunk drivers, uncovered pools and the chemical-laden cleaning products I used every single day were all risk factors now. It has been proven that many dangerous chemicals in household products can cause or exacerbate previously-existing asthmatic symptoms, especially in young children. They can also irritate skin, effect brain development and function and adversely affect lungs. So, how do you keep a sanitary, clean, germ-free home AND keep your family healthy?

It is actually very simple and affordable. Many internet sites as well as local food stores do sell lines of all-natural cleaning products. But it really does not take much extra effort to make your own! I am a mother of four young children and being able to keep a clean home on a tight budget is a huge blessing! Once you begin to see that you can clean just as well (if not better!) with your own homemade products you will be convinced! So, give it a try!

The first item that I always have on hand in my hand is white vinegar. They often sell gallon jugs of this in the local grocery store. White vinegar in the rinse cycle of the clothes washer keeps clothes soft and fluffy and in the rinse cycle of the dishwasher keeps your glasses sparkling and spot-free. Diluted half with water with a few drops of dish soap (or without if you do not have natural dish soap) makes a lovely glass cleaner that dries streak free and a wonderful wood polish that gets rid of dust and leaves your woodwork glistening. The beauty of white vinegar is that it is a natural disinfectant and is actually JUST AS effective as bleach at killing germs! (99.9%)

White vinegar is great for cleaning toilets, counters, stove tops, etc...... Keep a box or two of baking soda on hand as well and when you need a little extra scouring power sprinkle a bit on the surface and then spray the vinegar on top and leave to sit for one minute. You will see the foaming action as the two products work together to break up grease and stains. The baking soda is a gentle abrasive that will scrub wonderfully without scratching surfaces or causing any damage. I personally can clean my entire home with just vinegar and baking soda alone!

Many people ask me about the lingering odor that vinegar leaves behind. May I assure you that it actually will kill unpleasant odors in your home such as smoke, cooking odors from last night's tuna casserole, etc.... But for those of you who cannot stand the smell, adding 5 to 10 drops of your favorite essential oil will mask the vinegar smell. My personal favorite is lavender oil. Another cheap and easy trick is to toss a handful of orange or lemon peels into a pot and simmer on your stove whilst you clean. Or, toss those peels into your garbage disposal along with a few ice cubes to freshen your kitchen and sharpen and deodorize your disposal.

For many more simple recipes to make your own cleaners take a cruise around your internet! Mothering.com has a bulletin board specifically for natural home and body care with plenty of ideas to get you started! Make a difference in the health of your family and our planet, all while saving money! That way, everyone wins!