Spring Cleaning the
Frugal, Natural Way
by Cyndi Roberts
Remember the days when Spring meant cleaning the house from top
to bottom? Well, actually, I don't either, but I have read about it and seen it
done in old movies!
Still, there comes a time when we all must do at least a little
cleaning. Maybe you prefer to start in one room and work your way through the
house a little at a time. Some people might like to clean all the walls at one
sitting and the next time wash all the window coverings.
Whatever routine you use when you clean, using these hints for
natural cleaning products can save you money. Other advantages are: no extra
packaging to dispose of and fewer toxic chemicals in your home.
1. To clean windows and mirrors, mix equal parts of vinegar and
water in a spray bottle. Spray on windows and wipe off with crumpled up
newspapers.
2. To remove stains from carpet and upholstered furniture, mix
equal parts of white vinegar, liquid dish detergent and water. Spray on stains
and scrub with a brush and rinse with water. Another trick is to use shaving
cream to clean carpet stains. Just scrub it in and rinse and let dry.
3. For a natural carpet deodorizer, sprinkle carpet with baking
soda. Let sit for a few minutes; then vacuum as usual.
4. Mix equal parts olive oil and lemon juice for a natural
furniture polish. Just apply with a soft cloth and buff to a shine. You can also
use this on wood paneling.
5. When you have cleaned out your kitchen drawers, a bay leaf
placed in the bottom will discourage bugs.
6. For a general all-purpose cleaner (instead of cleaners like
Fantastik, etc.) mix 2 teaspoons each of borax and baking soda in 1 quart water.
Put in a spray bottle.
7. Put an old sock on your hand, dampen it a little, and dust
the leaves of your houseplants. Add a dab of mayonnaise and your plants' leaves
will shine!
8. To clean the toilet, sprinkle in baking soda and scrub with a
brush.
9. If you have rust stains in your bathtub or sink, pour on
hydrogen peroxide and sprinkle on a little cream of tartar. Let it sit for a
half hour or so, then wipe clean.
10. For cleaning bathroom tile and fixtures, mix 1/2 cup vinegar
with 2 cups rubbing alcohol and about 1 tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap.
Add this to a gallon of water.
11. Pour a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar down your
drain followed by a quart of boiling water, to deodorize it and keep it flowing
freely.
By using ordinary household products to clean, you can save
money and at the same time do something positive for our environment!
Housework won't kill you, but then again, why take the
chance! --Phyllis Diller
Cyndi Roberts is the editor of the bi-weekly newsletter "1 Frugal Friend 2
Another", bringing you practical, money-saving tips, recipes and ideas.
Visit her online at
http://www.cynroberts.com
to subscribe and receive the Free e-course, "Taming the Monster Grocery
Bill".