Recipes for Homemade Cleaners

Making homemade natural cleaners is easy with these green cleaning recipes

Chemical cleaning products are being linked more and more to increased asthma and cancer in children, as well as headaches, eczema and allergies. Not to mention the possibility of accidental poisoning. Not good!

I buy almost no commercial cleaning products at all any more because I'd rather make my own. I know exactly what's in them, I know they're eco-friendly, and I know they WORK. (Plus, they smell wonderful!)

Here's a few of my favorite homemade cleaner recipes: tried, tested and refined until perfect.

Homemade Drain Cleaners

Homemade Laundry Detergents

Homemade Floor Cleaners

How Do Homemade Natural Cleaners Work?

We're so used to chemicals and artificial scents these days you might wonder if the simple ingredients in these recipes really work. Well, here's your chance to find out!

• Vinegar. Kills germs, cuts grease, deodorizes, dissolves mineral deposits. Reportedly kills 82 percent of mold.


• Baking Soda. Sodium Bicarbonate. Scrubs, whitens and deodorizes. Cuts grease.


• Washing Soda. Sodium Carbonate. Cuts grease, removes grime, disinfects. Usually in the laundry area of your grocery or department store, or ask for it at a pool store. It will be in the water softener section.


• Borax. Disinfectant. Kills germs, bacteria and fungi. Deodorizes. Although it is a natural substance, borax is toxic when ingested. It may also cause skin irritation. Keep away from children, pets and food preparation areas. Use in proper dilution.


• Liquid Dishwashing Soap. Cuts grease, removes grime, disinfects. Look for a natural, vegetable based product. Or make your own!


• Essential Oils. Kill germs, bacteria and fungi. Boost the immune system. Add mood-lifting scents to recipes.

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