Housekeeping

Spring cleaning is upon us, and many of us are taking a closer look at the ingredients in our cleaning products. It's no secret that many of these products contain harsh chemicals that we don't want to expose our families to. The good news is, there are plenty of natural cleaning solutions that are just as effective and safe for your home that I have been using for years. To make the transition to natural cleaning easier, start small and replace your cleaners with safer, more natural options as you run out. Here are some great natural cleaning solutions to try: Steam cleaning Steam cleaning is a natural and chemical-free way to clean carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces. Steam cleaning uses high-pressure steam to clean and disinfect surfaces without the use of chemicals. It is an effective way to clean and sanitize your home without exposing yourself or your family to harmful chemicals. One of the few things I will ever admit my mother was right about was that steam cleaning is powerful and time-saving. A steam cleaner can melt off even the most stuck on dirt and grime. Vinegar Vinegar is a versatile and effective natural cleaning solution that can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, including countertops, floors, and windows. While it may not be a powerful germ killer, vinegar can leave behind a streak-free shine, cut through grease, and help remove unwanted odors from a space. Its high acidity makes it great for breaking down soap scum and other tough-to-clean messes. Baking soda Baking soda is another effective natural cleaning solution that has a mild abrasive quality and can be used to clean sinks, tubs, and toilets. You can easily use baking soda and vinegar as a foaming cleaner to remove dirt and grime from tiny crevices, and this combination can even be used for breaking down tough laundry stains. Salt Salt is a natural abrasive cleaner that can be used to scrub surfaces and remove tough stains. It can also be used to deodorize and clean drains. For cleaning tough, stuck-on stains, use salt like a scoring powder, and as an option for a coarser option. This is a great way to scrub your cast iron pans without risking damaging the seasoning layers on the pan. Lemon juice Lemon juice is a natural cleaning solution that can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces. It has a fresh scent and can be used to clean cutting boards, countertops, and other surfaces in the kitchen. Because of the acidity of lemon juice, it can be great for removing tough messes and breaking down tarnish for perfectly sparkling surfaces. Using a lemon to scrub down sink fixtures can leave them looking like new. Castile soap Castile soap is a natural and gentle soap that can be used to clean a variety of surfaces. It is made from vegetable oils and does not contain any synthetic ingredients or chemicals. Castile soap can be used for making homemade laundry detergents, dish soaps, and even homemade bath and body products. Essential oils mix in well with it for a custom-scented option. Hydrogen peroxide Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant that can be used to kill bacteria and viruses. It can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces in the bathroom and kitchen. Use hydrogen peroxide to break down natural stains like sweat and blood to help remove common stains caused by biological compounds. It can even be used to purify drinking water in an emergency. Essential oils Essential oils are a natural and great-smelling way to clean and disinfect surfaces. :: Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces in the bathroom. :: Lavender oil has a relaxing scent and can be used to clean and freshen up linens and towels. :: Citrus oils like orange or lemon essential oil is great for removing grime and leaving surfaces shining while killing germs and making your home smell amazing. Add essential oils to any of your natural cleaning options to make your home smell great and boost germ-killing power. These natural cleaning solutions are effective and safe for your health and the environment. By using them, you can create a healthier and safer home for yourself and your family, and even save a little money compared to using chemical-filled cleaners or often green-washed natural cleaners on the market. Making the switch to natural cleaning solutions doesn't have to be daunting. In fact, many of these solutions are probably already in your pantry or cupboard. And, as an added bonus, using natural cleaning solutions can be a great way to teach your kids about the importance of protecting the environment and making healthy choices for their bodies. As you dive into spring cleaning, consider trying some of these natural cleaning solutions. You might be surprised at how effective they are, and how much better you feel knowing that you're keeping your home clean and safe for your family.