Of course we must care for our homes and yards, especially when we entertain. I have found that striving to keep areas clean is a better option than letting it get messy—and then I’m not embarrassed when people come by. Am I perfect about it? Absolutely not. But every day is chance to start fresh, right?
I was pleased today to come across some more "green" blogs and one in particular that has several recipes for non-toxic cleaners that you can make. I battle this in my head as you can probably guess. Our environment is hugely important to me and my care of it even more so. Plus, I don’t like my family breathing fumes. But as I spray the bleach cleaner on my white kitchen countertops and it works so GREAT—I wonder how in the world anything else can work as well? Plus, we do associate the smell of bleach with clean and germ-free.
I am pleased to let you know that the recipes below work rather well. I encourage you to give them a try and then make a pact to start out. Start alternating between the bleach spray and these natural cleaners. Your home and family will be better for it.
Here are the first couple, courtesy of "A Day in the Life of Tree". There are more on the blog, including ones for furniture polish, drain cleaner and laundry soap so please click over and check it out.
All-Purpose Cleaner
suggested uses: hard surfaces like countertops and kitchen floors, windows and mirrors
2 cups white distilled vinegar
2 cups water
20-30 or more drops of essential oil (optional)
Tip:
Creamy Soft Scrub
suggested uses: Use this creamy soft scrub on kitchen counters, stoves, bathroom sinks, etc.
2 cups baking soda
½ cup liquid castile soap
4 teaspoons vegetable glycerin (acts as a preservative)
5 drops antibacterial essential oil such as lavender, tea tree, rosemary or any scent you prefer (optional)
Mix together and store in a sealed glass jar, shelf life of 2 years.
Tips:
Dry soft scrubs can be made with baking soda or salt (or combination of both) with 10-15 drops essential oil to scent
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