Commercial cruelty free cleaning supplies can be expensive. However, there are some great cruelty free cleaning products that can be made from materials that are probably in your cupboard, or that are inexpensive to purchase.
Using homemade cruelty free cleaning products makes economic sense, and your home and health will benefit from these less toxic cleaning alternatives. Does this Spark an idea?
Surfaces
White vinegar is one of the most versatile cruelty free cleaning products available. To wipe down household surfaces such as countertops, refrigerator shelves, doors and baseboards, mix one cup of vinegar with one quart of warm water. Squeeze a little lemon juice on tough countertop stains or make a paste of baking soda and water and use as a scrub to remove stains.
Use a paste of lemon juice and borax to handle tough degreasing jobs such as grills. Or combine 1 quart of water with 2 tbsp. of vinegar, 1 tsp. each of non-toxic soap and borax or salt for a general purpose cleaner that will cut cooking grease from counter- and cook-tops.
Glass
For a homemade glass cleaner, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and use on windows, glass tabletops and mirrors. Wipe the solution away with scrunched up newspaper for a streak free shine.
Toilets, Showers and Tubs
Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet and brush. Or for stains, sprinkle baking soda into the bowl and scrub with a sponge or toilet brush. To deodorize, add 1/2 cup of borax to the bowl, leave for 30 minutes to one hour, brush and flush.
Make a homemade cleaner for tubs and showers by sprinkling them with baking soda or borax and scrubbing with a sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
Floors
Mix 1 cup of vinegar in 1 gallon of water and mop floors. Use a paste of baking soda and water to remove scuff marks from tile and linoleum. Sprinkle baking soda or dry cornstarch on carpets and rugs to deodorize them, allow to sit for up to one hour, then vacuum.
Mildew and Mold
Remove mild cases of mold or mildew with a paste made from white vinegar and salt. For severe problems, clean the area with full strength vinegar, rinse with clean water and allow to dry. To inhibit mold and mildew growth, wash surfaces with 1/2 cup of borax mixed with 1 gallon warm water.
Clogged Drains
To clean clogged drains or to keep drains flowing, pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain, then pour vinegar over the baking soda until bubbling stops. Pour boiling water into the drain to dissolve and wash away remaining grease. This treatment will not harm plastic pipes.
Air Freshener
Place a cereal-sized bowl of white vinegar near an open window and allow to work for one hour.
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