FRUGAL, NONTOXIC CLEANING
As a mom of two, I understand the challenge of simplifying and embracing a frugal lifestyle while also prioritizing the removal of toxins from our home. It would have been so much easier to stick to the familiar products I was used to, but deep down, I knew they weren't safe for my family. That's when I made the decision to take charge and make a change. I couldn't keep bringing harmful products into our home when I had the power to choose safer alternatives. Buying nontoxic cleaning products from the store would have been convenient, but it was also expensive, and as a widow, every penny counted. That's when I discovered the incredible versatility of white vinegar for cleaning. But I didn't stop there. I delved even further and found another amazing pantry staple that could also be used for cleaning.
BAKING SODA AS A CLEANER
Baking soda is not just for baking. It is also a powerful and safe cleaner for your everyday needs. With its mild abrasive properties, you'll want to be mindful of what surfaces you clean with it. However, the versatility of baking soda offers endless possibilities when it comes to cleaning. Let me share with you some of my favorite ways to use it:
- Deodorizer for the fridge and freezer
- Cleaning the toilet
- Removing stuck on food from (stainless steel) pots and pans
- Tackling grease and grime
- Scrubbing grout and tile
This is not an exhaustive list but definitely a great place to start.
You can add essential oils* to your baking soda for a fresh smell while cleaning. Just add a few drops to the baking soda and stir well. Store in an airtight container, so the scent doesn’t evaporate.
EXTRA CLEANING POWER
When you combine white vinegar with baking soda, you create a powerful cleaning solution that can work wonders in your bathroom!
Here’s how you can use this effervescent power to clean your toilet. First, spray down the toilet bowl with white vinegar or the all-purpose spray from the previous blog post. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to loosen any dirt and grime.
Next, sprinkle baking soda all over the toilet bowl. As the baking soda comes into contact with the vinegar, it will start to bubble and foam, indicating that it's working its magic. Let it sit and do its thing for a few more minutes.
Once the bubbling has subsided, grab a toilet brush and scrub the bowl thoroughly, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies. The combination of the vinegar and baking soda will help break down stains and lift away dirt.
Finally, give the toilet a good flush, and you'll be amazed at the clean and sparkling result.
As the gatekeeper of my home, it is my responsibility to choose the products that enter our living space. Keeping toxins out of our home is a top priority for me. That's why I made the conscious decision to start with replacing my cleaning products. Cleaning items can have a significant toxic load, but I've found that it is surprisingly easy to replace them with everyday pantry staples. Not only has this change been better for our health, but as a widow with two kids, it has helped me stay mindful of my budget. Baking soda and white vinegar are effective, frugal options, ensuring a safe and toxin-free environment for my family.
Here is a recipe that combines the power of baking soda and white vinegar together:
all purpose bathroom cleaner
Ingredients
- 1 cup baking soda*
- ¼ cup nontoxic dish soap* (what I use)
- ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon white vinegar*
Instructions
Mix the ingredients in a large bowl to avoid a mess when the baking soda and vinegar have a reaction to each other. Stir until there are no more lumps and pour into a spray bottle. Shake well before each use.
*Affiliate links
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