Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Many of the cleaning products we use daily contain harmful ingredients that release nonylphenol, commonly known as an environmental hormone. Additionally, many laundry detergents and hand soaps claim to be antibacterial or germicidal. In reality, these added chemicals pollute the environment. For instance, dishwashing liquids often include antibacterial agents to eliminate bacteria on sponges. A common ingredient is triclosan; although used in small amounts, studies show that triclosan has long-term adverse effects on aquatic life. Furthermore, many cleaners boasting strong stain and grease removal properties contain surfactants that produce nonylphenol—an environmental hormone linked to male infertility and intersex fish in rivers.
Therefore, we can opt for eco-friendly cleaners for everyday household chores. What is an eco-friendly cleaner? Let us make our own safe, effective, economical, and environmentally friendly cleaning products together!
| Bathroom Cleaning | |
| Stain Remover for Tubs & Toilet | Mix vinegar and baking soda into a paste. Use it like regular scouring powder. |
| All-Purpose Cleaner | Mix 3 teaspoons of borax, 4 teaspoons of distilled white vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of hot water (required to dissolve the borax). Pour into a spray bottle and shake well to blend. Use on lightly soiled areas; works best when warm. |
| Bleach Alternative | Use diluted hydrogen peroxide or perborate products, which are safer than chlorine-based bleach and effective for disinfection. |
| Natural Disinfectant | Mix 2 teaspoons of Australian tea tree oil with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. |
| Kitchen Cleaning | |
| Heavy-Duty Degreaser | To boost the cleaning power of the All-Purpose Cleaner, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of washing soda (e.g., sodium carbonate, soda ash) and 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of liquid soap. |
| Drain Cleaner | Clogs are often caused by excessive grease. Pour boiling water down the drain first, followed by a mixture of 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1/4 cup baking soda. |
| Office Cleaning | |
| Window Cleaner | Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar into 1 liter of water. Wipe glass clean with old newspapers for a polished shine. |
| Wood Furniture Polish | Thoroughly blend 1/2 teaspoon of walnut or olive oil with 1/4 cup of vinegar. Keep sealed in a covered container when stored. |
| Simple Floor Cleaner | Mix soap and 1/2 cup of white vinegar into hot water. |
| All-Purpose Floor Cleaner | Mix 1/4 cup of liquid soap and 1/4 cup of lemon juice into 2 gallons of warm water. |
| Mold & Mildew Remover | Apply baking soda and hot water, then scrub vigorously with a copper wire brush. |
Note: Use a dual-sided sponge brush for extra scrubbing power. To add a fresh scent to your DIY cleaners, add a few drops of essential oils (available at health food stores).
| Precautions | |
| Heavy-Duty Rubber Gloves | Always wear gloves while cleaning. |
| Glass Containers | Store DIY cleaners in glass containers. Most eco-cleaners are best used freshly made, though tub cleaners can be stored for short periods. |
| Scrubbing Tools | Utilize dual-sided sponges and copper wire brushes to enhance cleaning performance. |
| Dosage Caution | Cleaning effectiveness is not directly proportional to detergent amount or concentration. Misuse can be counterproductive and harmful to health. |
| We hope these tips assist you while safeguarding the health of staff using these cleaners. Chemical products like chlorine bleach and chemical scouring powders should be avoided whenever possible. |
