It’s Spring Cleaning Time once again and it’s the perfect season to keep it natural with some DIY homemade cleaners. With just a few simple ingredients, your family can enjoy a greener spring clean this year.
Reduce, Reuse, Refresh!
A good start: Instead of going through a whole roll of paper towels, turn to reusable cloths. Whether you’re giving new life to an old t-shirt or using store-bought lint-free cloths, this is an easy way to save money and help the environment.
Reusable cloths are the best way to get started
I Can See Clearly Now
Looking for a streak-free window cleaner? Check your pantry. Vinegar makes a great, natural cleaner. Just mix one part vinegar with two parts water in a reusable spray bottle for cleaner, greener windows. Another tip? Try wiping down the windows with black & white newspaper so you can recycle while you clean.
Vinegar is a unique multi-purpose cleaner
Keep Your Stainless Steel Looking Stainless
Baking soda is a natural cleaner that is non-abrasive for your stainless steel appliances. Mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply with a soft sponge and then rinse well with warm water. You’ll be surprised how well it works and it’s also good for your countertops.
Baking soda is an excellent non-abrasive cleaner
When Life Gives You Lemons… Clean Your Microwave
Simply put some cut-up lemons or cider vinegar in a microwavable bowl of water. Microwave on full power for several minutes, then leave the steam inside for at least five more minutes to loosen remaining stains and eliminate odours. When you remove the water and lemons you can easily wipe down the inside of the microwave with a clean towel.
Use lemons for an easy clean microwave
A Breath Of Fresh Air
What’s more natural than fresh air? As soon as the weather allows, open up those windows and let some spring inside. This is a simple and refreshing way to eliminate stale odours from a long winter.
Let the fresh air in, enjoy!
Recharge Your Towels With Two Simple Ingredients
Skip the detergent and wash your towels with white vinegar and baking soda to make them soft, fresh and more absorbent. Place your towels in the washer, fill with hot water and add a cup of vinegar. Let it dilute for a moment and then add half a cup of baking soda. Wash and dry as normal for towels that are like new.
Recharge those older towels
Recycle Your Dryer Sheets
Did you know you can dust your TV screen, your computer, your baseboards and more with used dryer sheets? The recycled sheets will also help repel hair and dust from the surface.
Recycle your dryer sheets for quick clean ups
Lemon Aid For Your Fridge
Cut a lemon in half, place it in your fridge and let it absorb all those food odours. Lemon rinds in the garbage will help keep that area smelling fresh as well. Looking for more fresh ideas for using your lemons? Taste of Home has some great tips.
Lemons offer a fresh cleaning alternative
Clear The Air
There are many recipes for creating your own potpourri, or for simmering air fresheners. One of the easiest and freshest uses orange peels. Just add orange peels and a few cinnamon sticks to a pot of hot water and let it simmer, adding more water as necessary. Mini crockpots are ideal for this or you can put it on the stove at the lowest possible temperature, as long as you stay in the kitchen to keep an eye on it.
Nice smells … naturally
Easy Does It
Lastly, don’t try to tackle all the spring cleaning in one day. Take a few hours each day and before you know it, you’ll be ready for spring with a greener home to enjoy!
Take some “me time” during your spring cleaning