If you were to visit my home and curiously peered under my kitchen sink, you’d find an array of cleaning products. There’s the stainless steel aerosol, the almond-scented wood floor oil, and Clorox wipes (which I must confess, I’m not ready to part with just yet). Alongside these, you’d also notice a few natural cleaning solutions. Over time, I’ve incorporated a few eco-friendly cleaners into my cleaning routine, and they’re doing a fantastic job. But I’ve also learned not to feel guilty about not being entirely eco-conscious. I’ve struck a balance!
In this post, I’m going to introduce you to three products I’ve replaced with greener alternatives.
2-Easy Off Fume Free Oven Cleaner
This product claims to be “fume-free.” They’ve masked the strong odor, so my body doesn’t immediately react to the use of a product that needs serious ventilation. Luckily, I took the time to read the instructions! A few years later, I came across a video showing how simple it was to use a common household item instead, and I decided to give it a try. I wonder what my response would have been if they’d made it smell like fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies?
Natural Replacement – Baking Soda
Back in 1986, during the centenary celebration of the Statue of Liberty, baking soda was used to clean the iconic monument. As gentle as our fingernails, baking soda is a safe, straightforward, and economical alternative. It helped restore Lady Liberty, and it can do the same for your oven.
Just mix baking soda with water to create a paste, apply it onto the oven’s surface, and let it sit for 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the severity of the grime. Afterward, just wipe it off using paper towels or a damp hand towel.
2-Bleach
Despite using gloves and diluting bleach heavily due to its potent nature, and remembering to ensure adequate ventilation, I found myself longing for a safer and equally effective product. This desire led me to make a switch about five years ago.
Natural Replacement – Simple Green
This product is multipurpose, easily accessible at places like Sam’s or Lowes, and fairly priced. Simple Green can be used undiluted or diluted – the dilution levels are indicated on the bottle. It serves as an excellent spray for cleaning tables, countertops, and similar surfaces. Additionally, it’s suitable for mopping floors and laundry use. I’ve even safely used it on my wooden floors. Can we say it’s versatile?
3-Dish Soap
Recently, I casually researched some ingredients in my dish soap and decided to opt for a more natural alternative, mainly because I don’t wear gloves when washing dishes.
Natural Replacement – Your Suggestions Needed!
I’m eager to discover a new addition to my collection of natural cleaning agents. Do you or anyone you know use a trusted natural dishwashing product? While I’m not quite prepared to make my own, I’d appreciate recommendations for ready-to-use items!
Have you transitioned to any natural options? I’d be interested in knowing what you use and which products you’ve deemed worth the switch. How do they compare to your previous cleaning agents in terms of effectiveness?
Also, please suggest what should be the next dish soap I try out. My hands will be grateful!
Here’s to cleaner and healthier living!