Often, when it's cleaning time, we go to the store to buy cleaning supplies--a cleaning item for this, this one for that-- and by the time we are done, the only cleaning that we have done is in our checkbooks. You don't need to run to the store. Everything needed to clean quickly, effectively and safely for our families is right in our home. Try these natural cleaning recipes next time you clean.
Bathtub stains
Starting with those irritating stains in the bathtub, make a paste by using hydrogen peroxide and cream of tartar. Use an old toothbrush to rub into the stain and rinse thoroughly. No more having to open bathroom windows, close the door and wear rubber gloves.
Mirror fog
We all know how frustrating it is to jump out of the shower to have the bathroom mirror fogged up. A simple solution is to apply regular shaving cream to the mirror in small amounts in a thin layer and wipe it off with a clean rag. Mirrors will stay fog free, giving you a few extra minutes for yourslef. I tend to do this once a week. This also works well on the inside of your vehicle windows.
Mildew
Say goodbye to mildew with one word: bleach. Use lemon scented bleach and only 10% of it mixed with 90% of water in a spray bottle. Mildew is gone and you just saved an hour from using elbow grease. Don't forget to mark the bottle and keep out of children's reach.
Stained walls
We all love the Van Gogh renditions that our children create on the walls; too bad they can't do them on paper. As much as we would like to keep them, they must go. Spray WD-40, wipe off immediately and say goodbye to the crayon marks. If the little tykes used permanent marker on any non-absorbent surface, moisten a cotton ball with regular rubbing alcohol, rub it on the surface and off it goes.
With all cleaning jobs, I make it a point to have my children help. This teaches them responsibility from early on. I have learned that it makes them feel grown up and, surprisingly enough, after they have done the task repeatedly, it sticks with them. My daughter and son make their beds every morning for me. This alone has saved me time.
I made the mistake, as all mothers do, of trying to do everything myself. I soon realized that nothing was getting done. There was no more time in my schedule to clean my home. When I opened the phonebook to call for a maid service, I realized enough was enough. It's ok to ask for help and simplify our lives. We deserve it. In the long run we will do justice for ourselves, our children and our checkbooks.
 | There are many great reasons to use natural cleaning products from your pantry. You won't have to breathe in harsh fumes or expose your family to strong chemicals, and you'll save money by giving up those expensive store-bought commercial cleaners. |
 | Frugal cleaning supplies generally aren't store-bought. Learn how to make your own homemade cleaners. |
 | To maintain the great appearance of ceramic tile, you have to know a little bit about cleaning grout. |
To create homemade dish soap that is as strong as the store-bought version, start with Castile soap and a few other household ingredients. |
Just when you thought you had heard everything, here are more household hints to surprise you! These should help to keep things in your apartment running as smoothly as ever. |
