By Amy Denton, Editor-in-Chief of GLOBUS
I have recently delved into the world of eco-cleaning, and I find it fascinating! Whilst chemicals in household cleaners should be safe if used correctly, research suggests that long-term exposure to cleaning chemicals can cause respiratory issues like asthma or in severe cases could even decrease lung functionality. So, whilst I must admit to still using shop-bought anti-bacterial surface sprays and floor cleaner, I have decided to start my journey into the world of homemade cleaning products, making my cleaning routine better for the environment and for my health. Here is what I’ve learnt so far…
Tip #1: Vinegar is your best friend
I cannot stress this enough; vinegar is your best friend when it comes to making your own cleaning products. It is used in so many homemade cleaning recipes and I would definitely recommend picking up a bottle (get distilled white vinegar, or apple cider vinegar mixed with water as darker ones can stain). Using vinegar is so popular because it is a powerful natural disinfectant with about 5% acidity, the same level seen in many multipurpose cleaners.
Vinegar is perfect for cleaning:
- Countertops & kitchen surfaces
- Taps
- Showers and baths
- Toilets
- Some floors (see below for don’ts)
- Dishwashers
- Microwaves & other appliances
- Clothes stains
- Granite
- Marble
- Hardwood floors
- Natural stone floors
Tip #2: When life gives you lemons, use them to clean!
Lemons are a brilliant tool to use in your eco-cleaning routine, as they have both antibacterial and antiseptic properties, so rub them on unclean surfaces to get rid of those germs. Also, a tip my family taught me, put half a lemon in the fridge and it will stop your fridge from smelling.
Tip #3: Don’t fill up a mop bucket, use a bottle
I have found this tip particularly useful, as I hate carrying a mop bucket around with me when I’m cleaning. All you need to do is:
1: Fill up a bottle (I use an old dishwashing soap bottle) with a floor cleaning mixture (I recommend a 1:2 ratio of vinegar and warm water)
2: Wet your mop
3: Use the bottle to dispense the cleaning solution as you go.
It’s been a life changer for me!
I hope you’ve found these few tips useful, and will join me on my eco-friendly cleaning journey!
Header image by Jeshoots, via Unsplash
GLOBUS 
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