A lot of standard cleaning products you find in the supermarket are full of chemicals, and sometimes you have to wonder if it’s safe to clean your home with such harsh chemicals. Did you know you can keep your home just as clean making your own chemical free cleaning products? Try these chemical free cleaning hacks for around the home that will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.
1. Deodorise the fridge and pantry with Bi carb soda
Banish any unpleasant odors in your fridge and pantry simply by leaving a small bowl (I like to use empty ramekins) of bicarb soda inside. You don’t need to do anything else! Feel free to leave it up to 6 months to absorb any odors before replacing it with. When you’re done, sprinkle it around your sink before washing it down to give your sick and drain a quick clean as well.
2. Use Vinegar to remove arm pit stains on white shirts
Yellow pit stains are unfortunately unavoidable for some especially in the warm weather. However, removing them is a cinch! Simply soak the affected area with some vinegar and then gently rub the vinegar into the area. You can also use an old toothbrush to do this as well. Let it sit for up to 15 minutes then wash as normal.
3. Mix vinegar, water, tea tree oil for a multi-purpose spray
Make your own chemical-free household cleaner by filling an empty spray bottle (Grab one here) and mixing 1 part water and 1 part vinegar. Vinegar can be a little harsh on the nose so you need to add some essential oil to give it a nice, natural fragrance. Start with 10 drops then work your way up as needed. This rivals any store-bought cleaner but at only a fraction of the price.
4. Disinfect your laundry with natural essential oils
Adding essential oils to your laundry increases the cleaning power as they help fight grease, stains and odor. Plus, they’ll also add a natural fragrance to your washing. Just add 10-12 drops of your favorite essential oil to the recommended amount of liquid detergent. Mix well, and then add to your wash as normal. Lavender and citrus oils like orange and lemon work great.
5. Deep clean the microwave with just a hot bowl of water
When it comes to cleaning things that come into contact with our food, it’s a no-brainer to stay away from harsh chemicals. So the next time your microwave needs a deep clean, all you’ll need is water and lemon. Fill a bowl with water, and squeeze some lemon in. Drop the rinds into the water as well, and microwave until the water boils. As the water boils, it condenses on the sides of the microwave, loosening gunk and dissolving food splatters. Once you’re satisfied with the results, use a clean sponge to wipe everything clean.
6. Make a stainless sink sparkle with just vinegar
If your kitchen sink is lacking its lustre, it’s easy to make it shine bright with eco-friendly materials you already have at home. Once you’ve give your sink a quick wash and rinse removing any food debris, sprinkle the entire sink with bicarb soda. Using a soft sponge, scrub the basin in a circular motion. Rinse the sink with vinegar (which will bubble and fizz, this is normal) then lightly rub with the sponge and rinse the sink with water. Finish by buffing with a paper towel and a touch of olive oil.
7. A spa treatment for your chopping boards using lemon and salt
Your chopping board is one of the hardest working members of your kitchen so treating it to a regular ‘spa treatment’ will not only keep it clean and germ free but also ensures its longevity. To give it a deep spa worthy clean, sprinkle the board with coarse salt and scrub with half a lemon. Once you’re satisfied, rinse with hot soapy water and let dry overnight.
8. Spray vinegar for crystal clear shower screens
Say goodbye to unsightly soap scum building up on your shower screens. To bring back the shine, simply spray some vinegar onto the shower screen, then using a soft sponge, gently scrub the screens to loosen the soap scum and evenly coat the entire surface with vinegar. When you’re ready, rinse with warm water and while still wet use a squeegee to help dry the shower quickly.
9. Super strength oven cleaner: Vinegar and bi carb soda
Vinegar and bicarb soda go hand in hand when it comes to cleaning, and cleaning your oven is no exception. Firstly, scrape out any loose burnt stuff you can see in the oven. Sprinkle a generous amount of bi carb soda over all the other burned spots that couldn’t be dislodged. Follow with some vinegar (in a spray bottle) all over the bicarb and step back as the vinegar and bicarb soda work their magic – 30-45 minutes. Once time is up, take a tough scrubbing sponge or wired scrubber and start working at the stubborn spots. When you’re done, rinse with a cloth and warm water. You might need to wipe and rinse a few times for a thorough clean.
10. Natural carpet freshener
In between deep cleans, your carpet can quickly loose its freshness with kids and pets running all around the home! To make your own carpet freshener, mix a cup of bicarb soda, ½ cup of borax (this will keep fleas away, not required if you have no pets of course) and 15-20 drops of your favourite essential oil. Lightly sprinkle this mixture on your carpet, and let sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming as normal.
Bonus!
11. Beauty hack: Coconut oil
After a hard day of cleaning, don’t forget to keep your hands and nails looking immaculate. Coconut oil is a perfect cuticle moisturize, massage it before you go to sleep and wake up with soft and moisturized cuticles.
Keep your home clean and chemical free with these simple DIY cleaning hacks for your home. All you need is vinegar, bicarb soda, lemon, water and some old fashioned elbow grease. Happy cleaning!
