Are you fully aware of the ingredients in the cleaning products you use at home, their potential effects, and safety standards?
Below is a brief overview of 10 effective household cleaners and disinfectants that can be used during home cleaning of the bathroom and kitchen to remove dirt and germs, keeping these areas safe, clean, and sanitized. These include: lemon juice, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, essential oils, borax, Castile soap, salt, cornstarch, olive oil, and baking soda.
Lemon
The citric acid in lemon is very effective at removing alkaline stains like soap scum in bathrooms and kitchens. Lemon juice can also disinfect non-porous surfaces and polish oxidized metals, making old copper utensils shine again. It reduces bacteria on hard surfaces, although less effectively than vinegar or commercial cleaners. However, it’s definitely better smelling and a natural alternative against mold, useful for disinfecting various kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
White Vinegar
Made from acetic acid and water, white vinegar is a strong cleaner that easily removes grease, mold, odors, stains, and wax buildup. Due to its high acidity, it reduces bacteria on surfaces, making it a safe alternative, though less effective than bleach. Vinegar suits those who prefer safer, chemical-free cleaning but won’t fully eliminate all bacteria. It’s suitable for floors, glass, drains, and dishwashers.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can kill mold and remove stains from various kitchen and bathroom surfaces. It’s useful for cleaning refrigerators, washing machines, grout, and areas affected by mold and fungi.
Essential Oils
Beyond their pleasant aromas, essential oils have medicinal properties that fight bacteria and fungi. Adding some essential oils to soap and water enhances cleaning, helping eliminate mold, fungi, and bad odors at home. Common antibacterial oils include tea tree, citronella, rosemary, lemongrass, orange, and patchouli. They can also be added to dishwashing or laundry detergents.
Borax
Also known as sodium borate, borax is a white powder made of boron, sodium, oxygen, and water. It dissolves in water and acts as an insecticide, so it’s a strong substance that should be used cautiously. Borax cleans dishwashers, acidic stains, mold, chrome fittings, and drains.
Castile Soap
Castile soap is usually made from a blend of vegetable oils and produces lots of foam. Just one drop can clean dishes, bathtubs, or almost any surface. While it’s not antibacterial on its own, adding tea tree essential oil can make a natural antibacterial cleaner.
Salt
Salt can clean kitchen surfaces and tools, especially cutting boards and greasy stovetops. It also helps remove tough stains from pans and pots. Salt is good for eliminating bad kitchen odors, like garlic or fish smells on hands or boards. For cleaning, make a simple paste with salt and water or lemon juice/vinegar, apply to the surface, then gently scrub with a sponge or cloth. Salt’s abrasive nature removes dirt and stains, leaving surfaces fresh and shiny.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is used in kitchen cleaning mainly to absorb grease and oil stains on countertops, stove covers, and ovens. It also removes sticky residues left by adhesives or labels on jars and containers. Its absorbent nature helps freshen carpets and rugs. To use, sprinkle cornstarch on the surface or stain, gently rub it in to absorb the unwanted material, then wipe off with a clean cloth or vacuum. Repeat for stubborn stains.
Olive Oil
Olive oil can be used for various cleaning tasks in the kitchen, especially for polishing and restoring wooden cutting boards, utensils, and furniture. It also helps remove stickers or sticky residue from jars or appliances. Its lubricating properties make it ideal for loosening rusty or squeaky hinges. Apply a small amount on a clean cloth or paper towel, rub gently on the surface you want to clean or polish, and wipe off excess oil for a shiny finish.
Baking Soda
Baking soda powder is useful for many kitchen cleaning tasks, particularly for cleaning and deodorizing sinks, countertops, appliances, and cookware. It helps remove tough stains from coffee cups, tea stains from teapots, and food residues from baking dishes. To use, make a simple paste by mixing baking soda with water until thick, apply to the surface, and gently scrub with a sponge or cloth. Baking soda can also be sprinkled on surfaces or placed open in the fridge to absorb odors.
If you want, I can also provide:
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Step-by-step usage tips for each cleaner,
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DIY recipes using these ingredients,
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Safety guidelines for using stronger ones like borax and hydrogen peroxide.
Would you like me to help with anything specific?
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