It’s Spring Cleaning time again! But this year, why not clean your home naturally and save some money in the process by making your cleaners yourself? Not only are homemade cleaners cheaper, they are much, much safer for your entire family. You don’t have to have harsh chemicals and strong fragrances to have an effective household cleaner.
Here are a few examples to get you on your way.
Window Cleaner
1/8-1/4 c. white vinegar
4 cups warm water
Mix ingredients together and pour into a clean spray bottle. Use newspaper to wipe the solution instead of paper towels for a streak free shine!
General All Purpose Cleaner
Dissolve four tablespoons of baking soda in one quart of warm water. Add 3-4 drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance, if desired.
Shop all old-time cleaning supplies and tools from Lehman’s >>
Tub and Sink Scrub
Plain ol’ baking soda makes a wonderful scrub for cleaning grimy sinks and tubs! Just sprinkle it around, and use a wet rag or sponge to scrub the muck away.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
1/4-1/2 c. baking soda
spray bottle of white vinegar
Sprinkle the baking soda around the inside of the toilet bowl. Next, spray vinegar over the baking soda. *Hint: using a spray bottle uses less vinegar than simply pouring it on.* Let the solution fizz for about a minute, then scrub it with a toilet brush. A great way to clean, deodorize and sanitize your toilet!
If you like an extra fresh scent, squirt a little lemon juice into the newly cleaned bowl.
For Hard Water Stains In Your Toilet
To remove those stubborn stains that you thought were impossible to get rid of, put on your rubber gloves, grab a pumice stone, and scrub those streaks away. *Note: This method is not recommended for other surfaces, as it may scratch the finish off a tub or sink.
Dusting
Re-purpose used dryer sheets to dust your electronics. The antistatic properties will help to repel future dust from accumulating on your computer and television screens so quickly.
Shop all old-time cleaning supplies and tools from Lehman’s >>
Cleaning Window Screens
Remove any dirt by wiping the screen with a dry sponge. Pop the screen out of the window, and lean it up against something (preferably outside). Mix one cup of ammonia to one gallon of water, and pour it over the top of the screen, allowing it to run down the entire surface. Use a good scrub brush to gently clean the screen. Repeat the process on the other side. Rinse by spraying with a garden hose, and allow to dry in the sun.
Mildewed Shower Curtain
Instead of simply replacing your shower curtain or liner, wash it in the washing machine! Simply place it in your washer with two white towels, fill with warm water, and add detergent and 1/2 cup of baking soda. To repel future soap scum, add 1 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Hang on the shower rod to dry.
Air Conditioner Filter
Save money by cleaning your air filter instead of simply replacing it. First, take it out and vacuum it well. Next, soak it in equal parts white vinegar and warm water for about an hour, then rinse. Let it dry in the sun.
Ceramic Tile Floors
Wash your tile floors with a solution of one cup white vinegar to one gallon of hot water. No soap, or rising required. Your floor will shine like new!
Clear Drain Clogs
Pour one cup baking soda into the drain, followed by one cup white vinegar. Allow this solution to sit for about 8 hours, then slowly pour one gallon of boiling water down the drain. If necessary, use a clean plunger to plunge the drain a few times.
Shop all old-time cleaning supplies and tools from Lehman’s >>
Garbage Disposal Cleaning
Drop a few handfuls of ice cubes into the garbage disposal, followed by a handful of lemon rinds. Then turn the disposal on and allow it to grind it all up. Follow up with a hot water rinse as the disposal runs as usual.
Monthly Washing Machine Maintenance
Do this monthly to help ensure your washer lasts years longer! Fill the washing machine with hot water, pour in a gallon of white vinegar, and allow it to run through the entire cycle. This will help clear hoses of minerals and soapy buildup.
Water Heater Maintenance
Do this twice a year and get more mileage from your hot water tank. Turn the power off to the water heater at the circuit breaker and drain the sediment from the bottom of the tank before refilling.
Do you have any favorite homemade cleaning recipes you’d like to share? I’d love to know how you clean your home naturally!
Shop all old-time cleaning supplies and tools from Lehman’s >>
