Bust the Dust in an Earth Friendly Way
Bust the Dust in an Earth Friendly Way
Feel like being a little more environmentally conscious this spring? Here are some earth-friendly cleaning recipes to help:
All Purpose Cleaner
Dissolve baking soda in the warm water. Apply with a sponge or spray with a spray bottle. Use to clean and deodorize all kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Rinse with clear water.
Drain Cleaner
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1 cup baking soda
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1 cup white vinegar
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Boiling water
Pour baking soda down the drain. Add white vinegar and cover the drain if possible. Let stand for 5 minutes, then pour a pot of hot water down the drain. The vinegar and baking soda will break down fatty acids into soap and glycerin, and wash the clog down the drain.
CAUTION: Don't use this method if you have used a commercial drain opener that may still be present in the drain.
Drain Opener
Use a plunger or a flexible metal snake to loosen clogged drains. Do not use in the presence of harsh or toxic chemicals.
Lime and Mineral Deposit Remover
Soak cleaning cloths in vinegar then apply the cloths to the lime deposits around faucets. Leave the cloths there for approximately one hour. The deposits will soften and can be wiped easily.
Oven Cleaner
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Baking soda
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Very fine steel wool
Sprinkle water on oven surface. Apply baking soda and rub using a very fine steel wool. Wipe off with a damp sponge. Rinse well and dry.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Sprinkle baking soda into the bowl, then pour some vinegar in and scour with a toilet brush. This combination cleans and deodorizes.
Furniture Polish
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3 cups olive oil
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1 cup vinegar
Mix well. Use a clean, soft cloth to apply to furniture.
Disinfectant
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1 cup borax
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1 gallon hot water
CAUTION: Borax is a toxic ingredient. Handle it with care and store safely.