Are you concerned about the health and environmental effects of the household chemicals you use? Even when used as directed, many household chemicals can endanger our health and safety and pose risks to our children, pets, communities, wildlife and the environment we all call home.
Fortunately, safe alternative products are readily available, easy to use and often cheaper than their more dangerous counterparts. Here are some safer choices:
- Baking Soda can be used as a mild abrasive cleaner and is an alternative to silica-based scouring products.
- Vinegar is used as an all-purpose cleaner, hard surface cleaner and glass cleaner. It is an alternative to ammonia-based cleaners and other corrosive products.
- Borax is a naturally occurring mineral found in boron-rich areas in the western United States and is an alternative to chlorine or silica-based scouring products.
- Lemons are highly acidic, which makes them a strong cleaning agent. Additionally, they provide a refreshing and clean scent.
Recipes
Dissolve 4 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart warm water. Or use baking soda on a damp sponge. Baking soda will clean and deodorize all kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Fill a spray bottle with:
- 1/8 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
In a blender mix:
- ½ garlic bulb
- ½ small onion
- 16 ounces water
Then add ½ teaspoon powdered cayenne pepper and steep one hour. Strain well. Last, add 1 tablespoon liquid dish soap. Pour into spray bottle and spray plants thoroughly, including underside of leaves. Use on leaf-eating insects. Mixture will store for one week in the refrigerator.