Ingredients for Eco Friendly Cleaning Products

Most homemade eco friendly cleaning products are made from one or more of the following ingredients. They are economical, reasonably effective and best of all, low or free of toxins. White Vinegar

White vinegar is one of my best friends when it comes to eco frienldy cleaning products ingredients. Vinegar uses are extensive, you can use it in the laundry as a fabric softener (not safe for acetate though!) and odor removal. Helps remove tough soap scum and mineral deposits on tiles, tub, shower heads and shower curtains. Unbeatable in the rinse water when doing dishes. Clean out coffee makers, and combine with baking soda to clean sinks and clear drains!

Baking Soda (bicarbonate of soda)

Another item on the list of 'can't do without' for green cleaning recipes. We all know baking soda absorbs odors in the fridge, but did you know that it is a mild abrasive that can be used on glass, dishware and painted surfaces? It's also great for cleaning the inside of your refrigerator, and removing mild acidic stains from fabric. It removes perspiration stains from shirts, cleans grout and works with vinegar to clean clogged drains and sink stains.

Washing Soda (carbonate of soda)

Washing soda is basically a stronger version of baking soda. It can irritate your skin, so wear gloves when you use it.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a more recent discovery for me, but it is indispensable for cleaning brass, copper, bronze and aluminum (not silver though!) With a little help from the sun, it can also remove rust from fabrics.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is normally found in the first aid section of your local pharmacy, where it is sold as a topical disinfectant. As a cleaner it can be used for mild bleaching and killing germs on hard surfaces.

Cream of Tartar

Surprised to see this item on a list of ingredients for eco frindly cleaning products? Cream of tartar is effective for removing stains in tubs and sinks, and on aluminum cookware.

Borax

Borax is a natural mineral that is ground to a powder. You can usually find it in the laundry detergent aisle. It is a natural water softener, sanitizer and all-purpose deodorizer.

Club Soda

Looking for an emergency spot remover? Forget the strong chemicals and reach for the club soda instead! One of the best of simple but effective green cleaning products: great for carpets and fabrics. Works on coffee, tea, red wine, pop, Kool-aid, juice...try it on everything.

For free recipes for eco friendly cleaning products I've collected over the years and the specific instructions on how to use them, please go back to Homemade Cleaning Products from Eco Friendly Cleaning Products

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