Green cleaning is the common term for cleaning that’s done in an environmentally friendly way, with products that are naturally-derived rather than heavily-processed or harmful. Here is a quick guide to some of the most versatile and effective green cleaning products out there. With these green cleaning solutions, you can safely and naturally clean almost anything in your house.
Lemons/Lemon Juice
Lemons can be used as a mild disinfectant and a deodorizer. Lemons can clean plastic, many countertops, microwaves, and even the garbage disposal. Check out our page that deals specifically with how to clean with lemon to find out more. Lemons are favorite when it comes to green cleaning solutions.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a naturally occurring compound with the chemical formula H2O2. Hydrogen peroxide is found in our bodies, in other animals, in rain or snow (in very small amounts), and more. As far as cleaning goes, hydrogen peroxide can remove soap scum from faucets, bathtubs, showers, and toilets. It’s also a great stain remover for fabric, a tile cleaner, and a grout whitener, and much more.
Baking Soda
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, occurs in nature as the mineral nahcolite. This mineral is mined and refined to turn it into baking soda. Natron (a mineral partially made of baking soda/sodium bicarbonate) was used as a cleaning product as long ago as 3500 BC in ancient Egypt.
Many homeowners concerned about the environment continue to use baking soda today! It can be used to eliminate odors, lift stains, cut grease, and much more. We cover how to use this wonder-product more fully on our page 7 Amazing Uses for Baking Soda.
Borax
Borax is also known as sodium borate. It is a mineral containing the element boron and a common natural cleaner. It can be mixed with water to make an all-purpose cleaner, remove stains, deodorize, and, as an antifungal, it can be used to kill mold. Borax is another product not often associated with green cleaning solutions.
Vinegar
White vinegar is made from the fermentation of distilled alcohol. It can be used in seemingly infinite ways. We’ll mention just a few here:
- Vinegar is a natural disinfectant. Dilute with water, add it to a spray bottle, and use it as a cleaner on almost any surface.
- Vinegar can clean mold and mildew.
- It can remove calcium build-up from cloudy glass.
- Add it to laundry to soften sheets.
- Use it to lift stains.
And the list goes on. Learn more on our vinegar page.
Commercial Cleaning Products
Sometimes you might still need a commercial cleaning product. In that case, you can choose one that makes an effort to be better for the environment by having fewer ingredients and none that are harmful to your family. Do some research on which green cleaner will best fit your needs.
There Are Lots of Green Cleaning Solutions
People think going green is difficult and restricting. Nothing could be further from the truth! There are many ways to clean using natural and safe substances. Make the switch to get rid of harsh-smelling chemicals and exposure to harmful ingredients. One of Maids by Trade’s own green cleaning solutions is the friendly EcoPink™ System, which provides our clients with healthier and cleaner homes!