Your home is meant to be your haven, a safe and healthy place for you and your family. So, you might be surprised to learn that research from the Environmental Protection Agency shows that indoor air quality can be 2 to 5 times more toxic than outdoor air. There are many contributing factors to poor indoor air quality, with the cleaning supplies you use being at the top of the list.
In addition to cleaner indoor air, making your own cleaning products is far cheaper than buying store-bought products. Since you will be using these products to clean, buy bulk-sized options. Here is what you need to get started:
- 4 or more new spray bottles
- Vinegar
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Organic coconut oil
- Salt
- Borax
- Baking soda
- A green dish soap or liquid castile soap
- Lemon or essential oils for scent
Multi-Surface Cleaner – Mix a solution of 1-part water and 1-part white vinegar in a spray bottle to use as your go-to multi-surface cleaner. While apple cider vinegar may smell a bit better it can stain some surfaces. To improve the aroma of white vinegar, add 10 drops of citrus or peppermint essential oil, or add a bit of citrus rind to the spray bottle.
Coconut oil has many uses including but not limited to:
- Use to remove sticky adhesive
- Remove crayon on the wall
- Polish wood or leather, test in a small patch first though
- Remove scuff marks on the floor
- Lubricate squeaky hinges
DIY Abrasive Cleanser – Baking soda or salt can be mixed with liquid soap to create an abrasive cleanser. However, with frequent cleaning and the right cleaning brushes you shouldn’t need to use them often.
Even green cleaning companies have a few non-green chemicals they turn to as needed, most of which are used for cleaning the toilet and shower. So, if you find your green cleaners aren’t getting the job done, you can use a more traditional cleanser as needed. Be sure to use as directed and open windows when cleaning to ensure airflow.
Making your own green cleaners will save you money but if you don’t have the time to make your own, you can always purchase green cleaners. There is an impressive option of choices to choose from for every room in the home which can be found in health food stores, Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and most grocery stores.
To further improve indoor air quality, take a look at Harvard’s Homes for Health report.