Natural, Non-Toxic Cleaners for Frugal Moms

Written by admin

Commercial cleaners are not only expensive, but many of them contain chemicals that – at the least – irritate sensitive skin and at worst can poison children and pets. Here are some solutions for making your own frugal, non-toxic cleaning products.

Be sure to label your homemade products clearly. While most of these products are completely safe, it’s still a good idea to keep them out of the reach of children and away from pets.

NOTE: These cleaners can be covered tightly and stored unless otherwise noted.

All-Purpose Cleaner

1/2 c. vinegar
1/4 c. baking soda
water

Combine vinegar and baking soda in a spray bottle. Fill bottle with water. Shake to mix well.

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All Natural Air Freshener

1 T. cinnamon
2 c. water

Combine cinnamon and water in small saucepan. Simmer on stovetop to remove odors and add a lovely fragrance to your home. Can add other spices as desired.

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Carpet Freshener

3/4 c. baking soda
2 T. corn starch
1/4 c. baby powder

Combine ingredients and mix well. Sprinkle on dry carpet. Let stand 10 minutes. Vacuum.

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Carpet Stain Remover

1 c. vinegar
1 c. water

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to mix well. Spray directly on stain and Let stand for several minutes. Clean with a soft brush and warm, soapy water.

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Drain Cleaner

1/2 c. baking soda
1/2 c. vinegar
hot water

Pour baking soda in drain followed by the vinegar. Let stand 15 minutes. Flush with very hot water. Repeat if needed.

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Furniture Polish

1/2 t. olive oil
1/4 c. vinegar

Combine ingredients in a small container. Mix well. Use on a soft cloth to clean and polish wood surfaces.

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Mold Remover

1 c. hydrogen peroxide
2 c. water

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to mix well. Spray mold completely and Let stand for at least one hour.

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Non-abrasive Scrubbing Cleanser

1/2 c. baking soda
1 – 2 c. liquid laundry detergent

Combine ingredients in a small container. Mix well to the consistency of thin cake frosting.

NOTE: Make only as much as you can use at one time as this will harden.

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Oven Cleaner

3/4 c. baking soda
1/4 c. salt
1/4 c. water

Moisten oven with damp sponge or spray bottle filled with water. Combine baking soda, salt and water in a small container. Mix well to form a thick paste. Spread over oven interior. Let stand overnight. Remove residue and clean with damp cloth. Use fine steel wool on hard-to-clean spots.

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Pet Urine Deodorizer

dishwashing liquid
1/2 c. vinegar
2 1/2 c. warm water, separated

Combine dishwashing liquid and 1/2 c. water until sudsy. Clean spot with mixture and a soft brush or cleaning rag. Combine vinegar and remaining water and rinse spot well. Cover with towel and let stand about 5 hours. Blot dry and remove towel. Allow to dry completely.

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Rust Remover

1 T. salt
1 T. lime juice

Sprinkle salt on the rust. Cover with lime juice. Let stand for at least two hours. Scrub clean.

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Sticky Residue Remover

Apply full strength vinegar directly to any glue residue left from price tags or other stickers. May have to set a few minutes, but can then be removed easily.

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Window Cleaner

1/2 t. liquid laundry detergent
3 T. vinegar
water

Combine liquid laundry detergent and vinegar in a spray bottle. Fill bottle with water. Shake to mix well.

Tags: Being Frugal, frugal housekeeping, frugal living