Why Natural Cleaning Solutions are Important
I want a healthy home for myself and my family. That’s why I’ve started using more natural cleaning solutions that avoid toxic chemicals. Chemicals found in many conventional cleaning products have been linked to health issues like asthma, cancer, and hormone disruption. By switching to natural cleaners, I can reduce my exposure to these concerning ingredients.
Some key reasons why I feel natural cleaning solutions lead to a healthier home:
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Natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap are non-toxic. I feel better about using them around my kids and pets.
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No harsh fumes or smells. Many conventional cleaners have an overly strong chemical scent. Natural cleaners with essential oils smell so much nicer.
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Better for sensitive skin. My toddler has eczema so I need to avoid irritants. Plant-based soaps are gentler on his skin.
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Environmentally friendly. Green cleaning solutions avoid chemicals that pollute indoor and outdoor environments. I can clean guilt-free knowing I’m not polluting waterways.
Evaluating Natural Cleaning Products
When selecting natural cleaning products, I look for these qualities:
Ingredients
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Plant-based soaps and detergents like castile soap, coconut cleaners, etc. These safely tackle grease and grime.
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Natural acids like vinegar and citric acid to dissolve dirt and mineral deposits.
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Essential oils that disinfect and provide pleasant scent without irritating chemicals. Lemon, tea tree and peppermint are great choices.
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Baking soda is a mild abrasive that cuts through grease.
Avoid These Ingredients
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Synthetic detergents like sulfates which can cause skin irritation.
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Antibacterial chemicals like triclosan which create antibiotic resistance.
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Fragrance chemicals like phthalates that are hormone disruptors.
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Preservatives like formaldehyde that are linked to health issues.
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Bleach which can irritate lungs.
My Favorite Natural Cleaning Solutions
Here are some of the natural cleaning recipes I rely on most for a toxic-free home:
All-Purpose Cleaner
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
- Water
Dissolve the baking soda in just enough water to make a paste. Add vinegar and lemon oil. Mix well and add water to dilute as needed. Use on countertops, floors, bathrooms, etc.
Glass and Window Cleaner
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cups warm water
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
Dissolve cornstarch in the warm water, then add vinegar and oil. Use in a spray bottle on windows, mirrors, shower doors.
DIY Disinfecting Wipes
- Paper towel sheets
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 10 drops each tea tree and lemon essential oils
Place paper towel sheets in an airtight container. Mix vinegar, water and oils in a bowl. Pour liquid over paper towels so they absorb it all. Seal and store. Pull out wipes as needed to disinfect surfaces.
Tips for a Natural Cleaning Routine
I’ve learned a few things after switching to natural cleaners that make cleaning easier:
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Create an all-purpose spray to use on most surfaces. Fill a spray bottle with one part vinegar, one part water and 15 drops of essential oil.
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Run a vinegar rinse cycle in the dishwasher and washing machine once a month to remove soap residue and mineral deposits.
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Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum up to freshen.
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Use a microfiber cloth instead of paper towels to cut down on waste.
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Set a schedule for deeper cleaning tasks so they don’t pile up.
The Benefits are Worth It
While it takes some effort to switch to natural cleaning products, the benefits make it worthwhile. I breathe easier knowing I’m not exposing my family to a myriad of chemicals each time I clean. And I love that everything smells naturally fresh, without overwhelming scented chemicals. Try some natural cleaning solutions – your home and body will thank you!
