As the holidays approach, we want to make sure that our homes are prepared for visitors and family.\u00a0 It brings to mind the spring cleaning frenzy we participate in once winter is over.\u00a0 Now, we are cleaning out the house to make way for holiday decorations, smells, and warm feelings.\u00a0 Here are a few ideas to use when deciding how you will clean your home this year.<\/p>\n
Chemicals used to clean our homes are harming our health and many don\u2019t even know it.\u00a0 The cleaning agents rub out soap scum and degrease grime on the stove but they also give off fumes that hamper our breathing and fill our home with unhealthy things.\u00a0 This year, get back to basics with some natural cleaning alternatives that still do the job.<\/p>\n
We underestimate the power of the simple things.\u00a0 If it doesn\u2019t have ten different unpronounceable chemicals on the label, we think it may not be effective.\u00a0 Natural chemicals and stain fighters take a bit more elbow grease but they do work.<\/p>\n
Try baking soda for instance.\u00a0 Baking soda can be used as an abrasive to clean the tub and shower.\u00a0 When combined with water, it begins to eat away at the dirt.\u00a0 Use a scrub brush to remove the softened dirt and wash it away.<\/p>\n
What about vinegar?\u00a0 Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that most people don\u2019t think about using.\u00a0 Vinegar can be used to clean windows, mirrors, other glass surfaces and to unclog the drain.<\/p>\n
For windows, clean them with a bucket of hot water.\u00a0 This softens anything on the surface so the vinegar can do its work.\u00a0 Clean the window with some pure white vinegar.\u00a0 Afterwards, wipe dry with some newspaper.<\/p>\n
Vinegar in combination with baking soda will unclog the drain.\u00a0 The bubbling action removes hair and other scum from the drain.\u00a0 Pour the baking soda inside the drain using a funnel or other instrument.\u00a0 Slowly pour the vinegar down the drain.<\/p>\n
You will hear and smell as the two come in contact with each other.\u00a0 Wait about fifteen minutes and then flush with hot water.\u00a0 Repeat as often as needed to get rid of the clog.<\/p>\n
Lemon is a good bleach alternative.\u00a0 Rub half a lemon on discolored grout between ceramic tiles to return it to its natural\u00a0color<\/a>.\u00a0 It also works on shower tiles and shower doors.\u00a0 Lemon is added to most household cleaners so why not cut out the chemicals and use pure lemon?\u00a0 Natural cleaning brushes can be purchased to use in conjunction with natural cleaners.<\/p>\n The chemical load of your home will be greatly reduced and the air will be cleaner.\u00a0 Speaking of cleaner air, give up those spray air fresheners in favor of beeswax candles.\u00a0 They provide a pleasant natural scent as they burn.\u00a0 Beeswax candles also trap odors in the air and neutralize them.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t worry stocking up on chemical cleaners to get the house ready for visitors.\u00a0 Use all natural agents instead, most of which are already around the house.<\/p>\n