Many common synthetic cleaning products, together with other harmful environmental agents, are considered to be a contributing cause of many modern illnesses. These include some of the most prevalent childhood illnesses such as asthma, ADD, hyperactivity disorders and allergies. There is also extensive evidence that synthetic cleaning agents contribute to the weakening of our metabolism and increased proliferation of auto-immune illnesses and cancers.
Most cleaning can be achieved with baking soda, borax, salt, pumice, vinegar, lemon juice, water and a little “elbow grease”. So round up a few containers, pre-mix these cleansers and be ready to be pleasantly surprised and save some money.
Stain Removal
Greasy stains – Fresh stain: Use a toothbrush with either salt, white chalk or baking soda to absorb the grease
Dried stain: Mix warm water and lemon juice then make a paste with either salt or baking soda and apply with a toothbrush
Stains on carpet – Borax or vinegar with soapy water
Coffee – Use a toothbrush and vinegar or soak in vinegar and rinse in seltzer
Sweat – Lemon juice or vinegar applied to the clothing, then washed normally.
(In some countries, lemon juice is the preferred antiperspirant!)
General Duty Cleaning
Glass/Tile/Countertops – Mix water and vinegar in a 10 to 1 ratio. Increase the vinegar ratio if the area to be cleaned is excessively dirty.
Dishes – soda or vinegar in the water will cleanse and cut grease.
Sinks/Bath/Tubs/Toilets – Sprinkle borax or baking soda around the toilet bowl as you would other dry cleansers. For other surfaces where a paste would be better, mix water with borax or baking soda to your preferred consistency, and add a bit of lemon if desired.
Furniture Cleaner/Polish
1 cup mineral oil
1 teaspoon lemon oil
OR
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon vinegar
4 cups warm water
Mix and store in a spray bottle, and warm up slightly before use for best results.
Laundry
Automatic Washing Machines
1 cup soap flakes
1 cup borax or washing soda
Mix together. Use 1 cup of mixture per load and wash as usual. Rinse in cold water.
Delicate Care Soap (hand washing)
1/2 cup borax
1 cup soap flakes
4 cups boiling water
Combine the above and let cool. Use about 1 cup of solution to 4 liters of water.
Fabric Softener (softening only, does not eliminate static)
2 cups vinegar
2 cups baking soda
4 cups water
Mix together. Add 1/4 cup to the final rinse cycle.