Just setting foot in the cleaning products aisle can be an overwhelming experience. There are so many options to choose from and no easy way of deciding which are best. Plus, the ingredient lists on some of them read more like bad science experiments that have no place in your cozy home. Give yourself a little peace of mind and save money in the process by trying out some of these great home remedies for cleaning.
Carpet spots
We’ve all been there: You spill a cup of coffee or bowl of pasta on the carpet and are suddenly terrified by the notion of having to embark on the expensive process of getting that carpet replaced. The next time such a spill occurs, take a big breath, and reach for a bottle of plain white vinegar. In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup vinegar, 2 cups distilled water and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Slowly pour the needed amount of mixture over the spill, and let it sit for a moment. Once the carpet fibres have soaked up the mixture, pat the area with clean, dry rags. Push down firmly so the cleaning solution can transfer the spill into the rags, which can then be tossed in the wash.
Urine stains
Accidents happen, but you don’t have to live with the evidence for the rest of time. If someone has an accident on a mattress, carpet or other fabric-based surface, blot with a dry rag to remove as much of the liquid as possible. Then pour soda water over the stain and blot again. This will help remove both the colour and the odour.
Window smudges
Don’t you hate when you fill your house with the unpleasant smell of window polish, only to discover later that it left yucky streaks behind? The natural route is sure to leave you with the clear finish you want. Simply combine 2 cups distilled water, 1/4 cup white vinegar and a drop of environmentally friendly soap in a spray bottle. Spritz the mixture on windows, then wipe away dust and dirt with your towel of choice.
Dirty countertops
It’s all too common for food to somehow end up on a countertop and then find its way onto your plate, so do you really want to be wiping down those counters with chemicals? Probably not. Instead, pour some soda water over your counters, and wipe with a clean cloth. Go over it with a damp cloth and then a dry one for added smoothness and shine.
Grimy bathrooms
Bathrooms are loaded with tight corners and intricate grouting where all kinds of mould and bacteria can collect. Fortunately there’s baking soda! Baking soda works just as wonderfully as an abrasive as chemical powders do. Use it on grout in the shower, around sink faucets or under the rim of the toilet to help scrub out hard-to-eliminate grime.
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