Green Cleaning also means Saving Money!

As a mother of 5 I am becoming more aware of what products I use and how much I am spending on them. Today-unlike any time before- we have almost complete information at our fingertips about the products we are using in our everyday lives. We know what chemicals are in our window cleaner, haircolor, shampoo, and even whats hiding in our dish soap. For those who are looking to use environmentally safe cleaning supplies we know that they are available and most times...EXPENSIVE. What some of us don't know is that we can make our own cleaning supplies using products found in our pantry that are going to save money and eliminate some of the chemicals and additives found in the ones we are using now. Here is a list of some Green Cleaning Supplies that are easily made and how to make them using the items in the cabinet.
TO MAKE THE FULL LIST YOU WILL NEED:

• Vinegar: It's very acidic, so it not only cuts through grease but also inhibits bacteria and mold.
• Baking Soda: neutralizes acids and breaks down proteins. It is especially effective for cutting through dried-on grease and for combating stains. Bicarbonate of soda neutralizes acidic scent molecules, which makes it an effective deodorizer. Also has antiseptic and disinfectant properties.
• Borax (sold commonly as 20 Mule Team Borax in detergent aisle):Borax is a naturally occurring substance that has properties of both a mineral and a salt. It works well in cleaners because it converts water molecules to hydrogen peroxide. It also has properties that enable it to disinfect and kill unwanted pests.
• Salt: Gentle Scrubber
• Water
• Containers
• Olive Oil

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Window Cleaner:

• 3 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 cups of water

Mix and place in a spray bottle. If you are against the smell of vinegar, just add a few drops of lemon juice. Clean windows with your old newspapers to keep your windows streak free!
Dishwasher Detergent:

• 2 tbs Borax Soap
• 1 ½ tbs baking soda

Mix together and place into the same place you would your normal dish washing detergent in your machine. Toss in a few teaspoons of vinegar during the final rinse to leave your glasses sparkling!
Toilet Bowel Cleaner:

• Baking Soda
• Vinegar
  

Rim the inside of your toilet bowl with vinegar. Sprinkle with baking soda over the vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Use a toilet brush and it will be just as clean as it was with the harsh chemicals!
Furniture Polish:

• 1/4 cup vinegar or fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon olive oil

Mix these ingredients in a squeeze bottle (if you get one that you can recap, it will stay good forever). Squeeze product onto towel and wipe on your wood furniture.
All-Purpose Spray Cleaner:

• 4 cups hot water
• ¼ cup vinegar
• ½ teaspoon borax

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and its done!
Oven Cleaner:

• 1½ cups baking soda
• ½ cup salt
• ½ cup water
• Squirt of plant-based liquid soap

Wipe down the oven with water. Combine ingredients together. It should be a thick paste. Spread all over the interior of the oven and let the mixture sit overnight. Wipe it down some plant based cleaner.
Floor Cleaner:

• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 4 cups hot water
• A few drops lavender oil or grapefruit seed extract (if you are not keen on the smell of vinegar. This is NOT Necessary)

Mix together and its ready to use!
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I hope that you find these green cleaning recipes easy to make and beneficial to you in your home. Not only is this great for the environment and safe for your family, it will also make a difference in your wallet. You will be able to make these cleaners usually for 1/4 the cost of those you buy at the supermarket OR LESS!

Good luck in your Green Cleaning! I plan to go over how to make your own laundry detergent and others in the next blog so if you have questions or have a trusted recipe for any Green Cleaners, please let me know!

Check out my other blogs with more homemade green cleaning supplies!!!