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Cleaning Hacks Save Money and Clean Greener with DIY Cleaning Tips & Tricks

Cleaning Hacks

Cleaning the house can be a difficult task and we often don't have enough time to do everything we want. To make things worse we are faced with a wide assortment of cleaning products that are very toxic. These cleaning agents do get things clean, but they leave behind residues and smells and they're simply not very good for the environment or for the people in your home.

If children happen to get into the cleaning products, they can get very sick if they happened to ingest them. Thankfully, there are many do-it-yourself cleaning products that you can make on your own with just a few simple ingredients which work just as well as the expensive cleaning products you buy from the store. Here are some cleaning hacks you can use in your home and put more money back in your wallet.

The Benefits of DIY Cleaning Solutions

  1. Reduced Chemical Exposure: By using DIY cleaning solutions, you can minimize your exposure to harsh chemicals commonly found in commercial cleaners. This is especially beneficial for individuals with sensitivities, allergies, or respiratory conditions.
  2. Customizable Scents: DIY cleaners allow you to customize the scents according to your preferences. You can add essential oils like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus to create a pleasant and refreshing aroma while cleaning.
  3. Education and Empowerment: Making your own cleaning solutions gives you a deeper understanding of the ingredients and processes involved. It empowers you to take control of your cleaning routine, knowing exactly what you are using in your home.
  4. Reduced Packaging Waste: DIY cleaning solutions often require minimal packaging or can be stored in reusable containers. This helps reduce the amount of single-use plastic waste generated by traditional cleaning products.
  5. Versatility: Many DIY cleaning solutions have multiple uses, making them versatile and cost-effective. For example, vinegar and baking soda can be used for various cleaning tasks throughout your home, from kitchens to bathrooms and beyond.
Cleaning Hacks

Essential Ingredients for DIY Cleaning Solutions

  1. Baking Soda: A versatile ingredient that acts as a mild abrasive, deodorizer, and stain remover. It's great for cleaning surfaces, removing odors, and tackling tough stains.
  2. Vinegar: A powerful natural cleaner that cuts through grease, disinfects, and deodorizes. It's effective for cleaning glass, countertops, and bathroom fixtures.
  3. Lemon: A natural acid that has antibacterial properties and leaves a fresh scent. Lemons are perfect for cleaning cutting boards, removing stains, and adding a natural shine to surfaces.
  4. Hydrogen Peroxide: A non-toxic disinfectant that can be used to clean and sanitize various surfaces. It's excellent for removing stains, disinfecting countertops, and whitening grout.
  5. Castile Soap: A plant-based soap that is gentle yet effective for cleaning. It can be used as a base for all-purpose cleaners, laundry detergents, and dishwashing liquids.

DIY Cleaning Hacks for Every Room

Kitchen Cleaning Hacks

  1. Grease-Busting Oven Cleaner: Create a paste using baking soda, water, and a few drops of dish soap. Apply it to the inside of your oven and let it sit overnight. Wipe away the grime the next day for a sparkling clean oven.
  2. Citrus Garbage Disposal Freshener: Toss lemon or orange peels into your garbage disposal, run cold water, and turn it on. The citrus oils will freshen and deodorize the disposal naturally.
  3. Non-Toxic Refrigerator Cleaner: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto a microfiber cloth and wipe down the inside of your refrigerator to remove stains and odors.
Cleaning Hacks_DIY Cleaners to have on hand

Bathroom Cleaning Hacks

  1. DIY Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl, then add vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes, scrub with a toilet brush, and flush. This will naturally clean and deodorize the toilet.
  2. Grout Whitener: Make a paste using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to the grout lines, scrub gently, and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse with water to reveal bright, white grout.
  3. Showerhead Descaler: Fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around the showerhead using a rubber band. Let it soak for a few hours or overnight, then remove the bag and run water through the showerhead to remove mineral deposits.

Living Room and Bedroom Cleaning Hacks

  1. Fabric Refreshing Spray: Mix water, vodka, and a few drops of essential oil in a spray bottle. Spritz the mixture lightly on upholstery and curtains to eliminate odors and freshen the fabric.
  2. Dusting Solution: Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist a microfiber cloth and use it to dust surfaces, effectively trapping dust particles without the need for chemical-laden dusting sprays.
  3. Carpet Stain Remover: Create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to carpet stains, let it dry, and vacuum it up. For tough stains, spray a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water, let it sit for a few minutes, and blot with a clean cloth.
Cleaning Hacks_Garbage Disposal Smells

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Windows and Mirrors

  1. Vinegar-Based Glass Cleaner: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto windows and mirrors, then wipe clean with a lint-free cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.
  2. Lemon Juice Window Wash: Combine fresh lemon juice with water in a spray bottle. The natural acidity of lemons helps remove grime and leaves behind a pleasant citrus scent.
  3. DIY Window Cleaning Wipes: Cut lint-free cloths or old t-shirts into squares. Soak the squares in a mixture of water, vinegar, and a small amount of dish soap. Use these wipes to clean windows and mirrors with ease.

Green Cleaning for Floors

Maintaining clean and pristine floors is an important aspect of home cleanliness. However, you don't have to rely on harsh chemical cleaners to achieve sparkling results. By opting for green cleaning solutions, you can effectively clean various types of floors while minimizing your environmental impact. In this section, we'll explore detailed and eco-friendly methods for cleaning and polishing floors.

All-Purpose Floor Cleaner: A Green Cleaning Essential

Creating your own all-purpose floor cleaner allows you to clean different types of floors with a single solution. Here's a detailed recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Equal parts water and vinegar
  • Optional: a few drops of essential oil for a refreshing scent

Instructions:

  1. In a bucket, combine equal parts water and vinegar.
  2. If desired, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the mixture and stir well.
  3. Use this solution to mop and clean various types of floors, including hardwood, tile, and laminate.
  4. Ensure your mop or cleaning cloth is damp, not soaking wet, to avoid excess moisture on the floor.
Cleaning Hacks_Carpet Cleaning

This simple yet effective all-purpose floor cleaner not only removes dirt and grime but also leaves your floors looking pristine and free of harsh chemical residues.

Homemade Wood Floor Polish: Nourishing and Restoring Natural Shine

Wood floors require special care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Commercial wood floor polishes often contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to both the environment and your health. Instead, try this eco-friendly and DIY wood floor polish:

Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • Vinegar
  • Spray bottle
  • Microfiber cloth

Instructions:

  1. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts olive oil and vinegar.
  2. Shake the bottle well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  3. Lightly spray a small amount of the mixture onto a microfiber cloth.
  4. Gently polish your wood floors using the cloth, focusing on areas that require extra attention.
  5. Allow the floor to air dry before walking on it to prevent slipping.

This homemade wood floor polish nourishes the wood, restores its natural shine, and provides a protective layer without the use of harmful chemicals.

Cleaning Hacks_Own Glass Cleaner

Additional Tips for Green Floor Cleaning

  1. Sweeping and Vacuuming: Regularly sweep or vacuum your floors to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents scratching and extends the life of your floors.
  2. Spot Cleaning: For small spills or stains, address them promptly to prevent them from becoming harder to remove. Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild, eco-friendly soap to gently clean the affected area.
  3. Natural Floor Fresheners: To keep your floors smelling fresh, sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming. For hard floors, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to your all-purpose floor cleaner for a pleasant scent.

Remember to always test any cleaning solution or polish in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor. This ensures compatibility with your specific floor type and finish.

By embracing green cleaning practices, you not only achieve clean and beautiful floors but also contribute to a healthier and more sustainable living environment.

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Upholstery and Carpets

Upholstery and carpets are prone to absorbing odors and accumulating dirt over time. However, you don't need to rely on chemical-laden cleaners to restore freshness. By utilizing natural cleaning solutions, you can effectively remove odors and revitalize your upholstery and carpets. Let's explore detailed methods for freshening your fabric surfaces with simple DIY solutions.

DIY Fabric Freshener: Banishing Odors Naturally

A homemade fabric freshener is an excellent way to remove unpleasant odors from upholstery and carpets. Follow these steps for a refreshing and natural fabric freshener:

Ingredients:

  • Spray bottle
  • Water
  • Essential oil of your choice (a few drops)

Instructions:

  1. Fill a spray bottle with water, leaving enough room for the essential oil.
  2. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the bottle.
  3. Shake the bottle well to mix the water and oil thoroughly.
  4. Lightly spritz the upholstery and carpets with the solution, focusing on areas that require freshening.
  5. Allow the fabric to air dry naturally.

This DIY fabric freshener effectively eliminates odors, leaving your upholstery and carpets smelling clean and inviting.

Baking Soda Carpet Deodorizer: Absorbing Odors the Natural Way

Baking soda is a powerful odor absorber and a staple ingredient for natural cleaning. Here's how to create a homemade carpet deodorizer using baking soda:

Instructions:

  1. Liberally sprinkle baking soda over your carpets, focusing on areas with lingering odors.
  2. Gently work the baking soda into the carpet fibers using a soft-bristle brush or broom.
  3. Let the baking soda sit on the carpet for a few hours or overnight to allow it to absorb odors.
  4. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove the baking soda, dirt, and odors.

This simple and natural carpet deodorizer effectively eliminates odors, leaving your carpets fresh and clean.

Additional Tips for Upholstery and Carpet Care

  1. Regular Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum your upholstery and carpets to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents the accumulation of particles that can cause odors and dullness.
  2. Spot Cleaning: Promptly address spills and stains by blotting them immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel. Use a gentle, natural cleaner suitable for the specific fabric or carpet type.
  3. Professional Cleaning: For deeply embedded dirt or stubborn stains, consider hiring a professional upholstery or carpet cleaning service that specializes in eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning methods.
Cleaning Hacks

Greener Laundry Solutions

When it comes to doing laundry, you can make eco-conscious choices that are both effective and gentle on the environment. By opting for greener laundry solutions, you can reduce your reliance on chemical-laden products and promote a healthier home. In this section, we'll delve into detailed methods for creating homemade laundry detergent and a natural stain remover.

Homemade Laundry Detergent: A Budget-Friendly and Eco-Friendly Option

Creating your own laundry detergent not only saves you money but also allows you to control the ingredients, reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals. Follow these detailed steps to make your own DIY laundry detergent:

Ingredients:

  • Grated Castile soap
  • Washing soda
  • Baking soda

Instructions:

  1. In a large container or jar, combine 1 cup of grated Castile soap, 1 cup of washing soda, and 1 cup of baking soda.
  2. Thoroughly mix the ingredients together until they are well blended.
  3. For each load of laundry, use a tablespoon-sized scoop of the homemade detergent.
  4. Add the detergent directly to the drum or dispenser of your washing machine before adding the clothes.
  5. Wash your laundry as usual.

This homemade laundry detergent is effective in cleaning clothes, gentle on fabrics, and free from harsh chemicals commonly found in commercial detergents. Plus, you can customize the scent by adding a few drops of essential oil if desired.

Natural Stain Remover: Conquer Tough Stains the Eco-Friendly Way

Removing stubborn stains without relying on harsh chemicals is possible with a natural stain remover. Follow these detailed instructions to create an effective and eco-friendly stain-fighting solution:

Ingredients:

  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Small amount of liquid dish soap

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and liquid dish soap.
  2. Mix the solution gently until it is well blended.
  3. Apply a small amount of the mixture directly to the stain.
  4. Let the solution sit on the stain for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate and break down the stain.
  5. Launder the item as usual, following the care instructions on the fabric label.

This natural stain remover works wonders on tough stains like coffee, wine, or grass. It's a safe and effective alternative to commercial stain removers that often contain harsh chemicals.

Additional Tips for Eco-Friendly Laundry

  1. Energy-Efficient Washing: Wash your laundry in cold water whenever possible to conserve energy. Most laundry detergents are formulated to work effectively in cold water, saving both energy and money.
  2. Air Drying: Embrace the natural drying power of air by hanging your clothes to dry instead of using the dryer. This not only saves energy but also helps extend the lifespan of your garments.
  3. Eco-Friendly Fabric Softeners: Replace conventional fabric softeners with eco-friendly alternatives such as white vinegar or wool dryer balls. These options help reduce static and soften clothes without the use of chemicals.

By adopting these greener laundry solutions, you'll not only achieve fresh and clean laundry but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Cleaning Hacks_Coffee Filters

Non-Toxic Cleaning for Appliances

Appliances are essential for modern living, but they can accumulate grime and odors over time. Instead of relying on harsh chemical cleaners, opt for non-toxic alternatives that are both effective and safe. In this section, we'll delve into detailed methods for cleaning two commonly used appliances: the oven and the microwave.

Oven Cleaning Paste: A Natural and Powerful Solution

Cleaning the oven doesn't have to involve toxic fumes or harsh chemicals. Try this detailed method using a simple baking soda paste:

Ingredients:

  • Baking soda
  • Water

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
  2. Apply the paste to the interior of your oven, avoiding the heating elements and any openings.
  3. Let the paste sit overnight or for at least 12 hours. This allows the baking soda to break down grease and grime.
  4. After the waiting period, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the paste and loosened grime.
  5. Rinse the cloth or sponge regularly to remove residue as you clean.
  6. For stubborn spots, use a plastic scraper or a non-abrasive brush to gently scrub away the remaining grime.
  7. Once the interior is clean, rinse with a damp cloth to remove any baking soda residue.

This natural and effective oven cleaning paste eliminates the need for harsh chemicals while leaving your oven sparkling clean.

Citrus Microwave Cleaner: Harnessing the Power of Nature

Cleaning the microwave becomes a breeze with the help of citrus and steam. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a fresh and clean microwave:

Ingredients:

  • Water
  • Lemon slices or lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water, leaving enough room to add the lemon slices or lemon juice.
  2. Add lemon slices or a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the water.
  3. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for several minutes until the water boils and steam is generated.
  4. Let the steam sit inside the microwave for a few minutes to loosen grime and stains.
  5. Carefully remove the bowl using oven mitts or a towel to avoid burns.
  6. Wipe down the interior of the microwave with a damp cloth or sponge, taking care to remove any loosened dirt or food particles.
  7. For stubborn stains, dip the cloth or sponge in the lemon water solution and scrub gently.
  8. Once clean, rinse the cloth or sponge and wipe the inside of the microwave again to remove any remaining residue.

Remember to always test DIY cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area before using them on a larger scale. These natural cleaning solutions are effective, affordable, and better for your health and the environment.

Conclusion

By incorporating these practical and eco-friendly DIY cleaning hacks into your routine, you'll not only experience significant cost savings but also contribute to a greener and healthier home environment. With the use of common ingredients found in your pantry, you can create effective cleaning solutions that rival or even surpass the performance of commercial products.

Bid farewell to expensive and chemical-laden cleaners that not only drain your wallet but also harm the environment. Embrace the power of DIY cleaning and revel in the satisfaction of a sparkling clean and toxin-free home. Get ready to embark on a cleaning journey that not only transforms your living space but also aligns with your commitment to sustainability. Happy cleaning and enjoy the rewards of a greener and more economical approach to household cleaning!

Sources

Written by JustDIY

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