6 Natural Homemade Cleaners

There’s been a lot of talk lately about needing to take better care of the environment. New cleaning products available which claim to be good for the earth; however, they can be expensive. Below are instructions on how to make a cheap and easy eco-friendly surface cleaner you can use all over your home.

1. White Vinegar Spray

One of the easiest and most economical cleaners is simply to put 6 ounces of vinegar in a clean 12 ounce spray bottle. Fill the remainder of the bottle with water and shake. Keep out of the reach of children and do not mix this with bleach. It can be used all over the house. You may also add essential oils – more drops if you want a stronger smell – and one tablespoon of liquid soap.

2. Natural Abrasive Cleaning Powder

Make an abrasive powder cleaner by combining equal amounts of Borax (found in most grocery store laundry aisles) and baking soda and mix until thoroughly incorporated. To use the cleaner, sprinkle it on any wet surface and scrub with a sponge. Rinse the area with water to remove any residue.

3. Natural All-Purpose Cleaner

You can also make an all-purpose cleaner by dissolving 1/8 cup Borax in 1 quart of hot water. If you want to make larger quantities, use 1/2 cup Borax to 1 gallon of water.

4. Natural Tile Cleaner

Try cleaning tiles surrounding your tub by cutting a lemon in half and dipping it into a plate of Borax. Use the lemon to scrub the tile. Rinse with warm water.

5. Natural All-Purpose Disinfectant

Make this all-purpose disinfectant by mixing 2 teaspoons Borax, 1/4 cup vinegar, and 3 to 4 cups of hot water. Put the mixture into a spray bottle. To make the mixture clean better, try adding 1/4 teaspoon Castile liquid soap.

6. Natural Wood Polish

To clean wood surfaces, mix equal amounts of olive oil and vinegar and polish the furniture with a soft cloth.