WHICH NON-CHEMICAL CLEANERS WORK BEST?
Scrubbing with chemicals and leaving a film of toxins all over your house may not be quite your style. Many people would love to switch to chemical-free cleaners or all natural cleaners that are less toxic in their homes. However, many people are worried that they'll be disappointed in the cleaning products that they choose. So how do you save time and money without overloading on the toxins? Easy. You check out the testing so you know what to buy before you buy it.
Drain cleaners are perhaps the most toxic of common household cleaners. Baking soda and vinegar can clean and unclog drains and are much cheaper than those pricey drain cleaners. First, use a drain auger or drain snake if you have one. If not, you can buy a little plastic one that is good for most clogs at the hardware store for about a dollar. Simply push it in until you hit the clog, twist it around, and then gently pull it out. The upward facing teeth on the auger are great at removing hair and other debris. Then, pour about a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then follow up with about a cup of vinegar. Cover it up and let it fizz away for thirty minutes to an hour. Then, pour a big pot of boiling water down the drain. You can repeat this process if necessary.
You can also clean even stubborn toilet rings with baking soda and vinegar. Just sprinkle them into the bowl, swish it around with the toilet brush and then close the toilet. Let it soak for a while, around half an hour, and then scrub again. When it's clean, simply flush the toilet.
Mixing your own all-purpose cleaner will give you a cheap and easy way to clean windows, stove tops, countertops and tables. Just mix half hot water with half white vinegar. Vinegar is very effective for cleaning almost anything. If you do not like the smell, don't worry. It usually goes away after a few minutes. If you'd like, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the mix for fragrance.
Another great way to clean glass and mirrors is with cornstarch and warm water. Simply put about 2 cups of warm water in the sink and dissolve about a half-cup of cornstarch in it. Dip your wash cloth in and then gently wring out. Leave the wash cloth fairly wet. Wipe it over your glass surfaces and let it sit for a minute. Take a dry towel or wash cloth and rub off any moisture or cornstarch that you see. You won't believe the streak-free shine that you get from something so simple!
About the Author: Jo Granville is on the staff of Only Hangers, a leading online resource for the widest selection of clothing hangers available. For more information, please visit https://www.onlyhangers.com.