April is Earth Month and spring-cleaning time–the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at the products you’re using to keep your home tidy and germ free. Are your household cleaners safe–not just for your family but for the environment, as well? Besides choosing chemical-free, non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning supplies, you can combine simple and effective ingredients from your pantry for homemade solutions that get the job done without putting your family or the planet at risk. Here are three recipes to try.
All-Purpose Cleaner
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 cups water
2-3 drops sweet orange essential oil
Mix all ingredients in a reusable spray bottle. Shake and spray. Good for kitchen counters, stove tops, even inside your refrigerator and is totally safe even for granite counters. Lasts for 4-7 days, if you don’t use it all before then.
Floor Cleaner
1 cup white vinegar
1 gallon hot water
10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
Fill your sink or a large bucket with approximately 1 gallon of hot water. Add 1 cup of white vinegar and eucalyptus essential oil for a fresh clean scent. This is safe for most flooring but if you have special or fancy floors, you should check your manufacturer’s guidelines. This is a one-time use recipe.
Creamy Sink Scrub
2 cups baking soda
1/2 cup citrus orange castile soap
4 tsp. vegetable glycerin
Mix ingredients until smooth. Store in a glass mason jar with an airtight lid. Great for kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and tubs. Lasts for 2 years if stored in a cool, dry place.