Don't spend money on gimicky, expensive
cleaning solutions. Use what you have around
the house plus inexpensive items you can get
at the store to clean around the house and yard.
-Keep your garbage containers cleaned and rinsed,
especially in hot weather. To stop mildew and mold
sprinkle 1/2 cup Borax in the containers. (Do this
slowly so it doesn't come back up in your face.)
-Bleach used carefully is a great cleaner and
disinfectant. Use a mixture of 1/8 cup liquid bleach
to one quart of water. Use a rag to wipe on the
solution, and wipe off with a clean damp rag after
a couple of minutes. Always wear old clothes
when using bleach because it will take the color
away if splashed. Also if you have sensitive hands
wear rubber gloves. Keep bleach away from kids.
-White Distilled Vinegar-I just bought 2 gallons of white vinegar on
sale for $1.59 each. You can
make scented herbal vinegar to use in cleaning VERY
simply. Simply cut herbs and stuff them in a glass jar.
Use whatever combinations you like the smell of-and
cover with the vinegar. Replace the lid and place the
jars in a pantry or cupboard for about 4 weeks. You
can use the vinegar plain as well, but you just won't
believe the difference by adding herbs to it! After 4
weeks, strain the vinegar and use as follows:
*Rub your hands with vinegar after handling onion
or garlic to help get rid of the smell.
*Use it in your mop water for the kitchen and bathroom
floors. Add 1/2 cup to a 1/2 gallon of water for a good mixture.
*If there are odors such as fish after cooking or smoke
in the air, pour vinegar in a small open bowl and allow it
to sit out on the counter in your rooms.
*Mix vinegar with baking soda to form a paste and use it
to clean surfaces, much like Soft Scrub.
*For a bathroom cleaner try this mix:
1 tsp. Borax
1/2 tsp. liquid detergent (like Ivory Dish Soap)
1/4 cup vinegar
2 cups hot water
Combine in a spray bottle and shake. Spray on
counter surfaces, sinks, tubs etc. and wipe clean.
About the Author:
Brenda Hyde is a wife, mom to three kids and a freelance
writer. She is the editor/owner of Old Fashioned Living and sends out
two free email newsletters. You can sign up for them HERE
