|
|
|
|
~ Back to Articles Index Page ~  Many housewives, or "domestic engineers" as we now know them, in the Forties, Fifties, and Sixties made their own cleaning products from common items found in every woman's kitchen. Topping the list were things like baking soda, lemons, lemon juice, and vinegar which were safe to use on just about every surface in the house. They left the house smelling fresh and clean and certainly were a lot easier on the household budget than commercial cleaning products. In particular, I remember my Mom using lemon juice and baking soda to clean the bottom of her copper pots and boy, did they shine when she was finished and the kitchen smelled fresh as a Summer's day. Moving forward 70 years, there's still a real need and place for these homemade cleaning solutions. With the emergence of the global stewardship movement, many today believe in doing all they can to leave a small footprint on the Earth and preserve its integrity for their children. If you want to take it one step further, you could even recycle those plastic food containers that we just can't get away from, and use them to hold your homemade cleaning solutions – LABEL THEM WELL! In this article we'll take a look at what biodegradable means, the connection between allergies and some commercial cleaning products, and offer up a few of our own homemade cleaning solutions using ingredients such as vinegar, lemon, and baking soda for everything from countertops to carpets. WHAT DOES BIODEGRADABLE ACTUALLY MEAN? Biodegradation is the chemical breakdown of materials by the environment, or to make it even simpler, when an object disappears in its own time. Naturally-occurring microorganisms are the driving force behind this breakdown, and even certain artificial (non-organic) materials which are similar in structure to plant or animal matter can be biodegradable. 1 HOMEMADE CLEANING PRODUCTS AND ALLERGIES In a recent survey by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, up to 62 percent of patients reported having allergy symptoms caused by indoor allergens. There are several things you can do to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and still end up with a sparkling-clean home. Which Cleaning Products Can Worsen Allergy Symptoms?  While care should be used with any cleaning product, "avoid anything that has strong noxious odors, such as ammonia, and products that produce particulates, including air fresheners and ozone generators," says James L. Sublett, MD, section chief of pediatric allergy at the University of Louisville School of Medicine and managing partner of Family Allergy and Asthma in Louisville, Ky. Aerosol spray cleaners are another item to scratch off your shopping list. Not only can they trigger allergy symptoms, but a recent study also found that weekly use of cleaning sprays was linked with increases in asthma, asthma-medication use, and wheezing among women and men. Even more frequent use of these cleaners was associated with greater risk. Which Cleaning Products and Tools Are Recommended for Allergy Sufferers? "On smooth surfaces, use products that have minimal odors," Dr. Sublett says. Also, use dust cloths and mops that pick up and retain the dust rather than those that stir it into the air. Vacuuming is another trouble spot. Cyclonic vacuums or vacuums with HEPA filters are good choices for removing allergens. 2 HOMEMADE ECO-FRIENDLY, ECONOMICAL CLEANSERS AND CONCOCTIONS Before we talk about what can be done, let's stop to remind ourselves of what shouldn't be done:
PLEASE REMEMBER Before trying any of the following cleaning concoctions: 1. Spot test a small amount of the cleaner in an inconspicuous area on the surface you are going to clean to ensure the cleaner can be used safely. 2. Spot test a dab of the cleaner on the inside of your forearm to ensure you will not react to the cleaner. 3. Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin while cleaning. Wash your hands and use a good moisturizer when finished cleaning to keep your hands clean and beautiful as well! Let's dive right in to how you can make your own homemade cleansers. We've scoured (no pun intended) the internet for you to find some of the best instructions on how to accomplish this. One of the most frequently used ingredients is VINEGAR. 1001 Uses for Vinegar To see all 1001, CLICK HERE.
When you have toddlers crawling around on your carpets, keeping them fresh and clean without harsh chemicals is a must. 1. Clean carpets by sprinkling baking soda (deodorizing) to remove odors; let sit for an hour and vacuum. 2. Use club soda (removing stains) immediately to lift stains that might penetrate the fibers of your carpet. Lift any matter that may accompany the spill. Pour a little directly on the stain and dab with a white cloth. Never rub! Continue to dab, using a fresh white cloth every 2 minutes or so, until the stain is lifted and the area is dry. 3. Use white cloths when you clean to eliminate the possibility of color transfer to the carpet. Carpet Deodorizers Suggestions 1. In a bowl, combine together 4 cups baking soda or cornstarch with a hefty dose of your favorite essential oils (by itself, or a blend). Make sure it is well mixed together, with no chunks, then either transfer it to a shaker container or pour it through a strainer evenly over your carpet (wash your strainer well after). Allow the mix to sit on your carpet for at least 15 minutes. Be careful not to use any essential oils that others in your home may be allergic to. 2. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine together 1 cup of dried herbs (such as rosemary or lavender), 1 tsp ground cloves, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 2 teaspoons baking soda. Shake well. Sprinkle this on your carpet, and allow it to sit for at least an hour before you vacuum it up. Seal the jar tightly if you want to store it. This makes a great housewarming gift. 3. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine ¾ cup baking soda, 2 tbsp cornstarch, ¼ cup scented talcum powder. Sprinkle this on your carpet and allow it sit for at least an hour before you vacuum it up. Seal the jar tightly if you want to store it. 5 References: 1.Wikipedia.com http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodegradation 2. Everyday Health http://www.everydayhealth.com/allergies/allergies-and-cleaning-products.aspx 3. About.com: Chemistry http://chemistry.about.com/od/healthsafety/a/dangeousmix.htm 4. 1001 Uses for Vinegar http://www.vinegartips.com/scripts/pageViewSec.asp?id=7 5. Frugal Fanny http://www.frugalfanny.ca Carol Roy is a Natural Health Practitioner, registered with Natural Health Practitioners Canada, who received her diploma from the Alternative Medicine College of Canada in Montreal, Quebec. With 9 years experience in her area of expertise, naturopathic medicine, Carol has also trained to become a fully qualified Reiki Master, Quantum Touch ® Practitioner and Reflexologist. are recommendations only and not a substitute for any medical advice or a replacement for any prescriptions. Seek medical advice for any health concerns. Consult your health care provider before using any recommendations herein. |
|
Locate A Store
|