How to Clean Just About Anything - Chemical-Free!

I like clean, but I don't like the cleaners you buy at the store. I used to look high and low for natural cleaners at health food stores, etc. But even though they seemed great, they're expensive. I finally stumbled on a secret our grandparents knew for years - vinegar.

I love using vinegar for cleaning. You can get a whole gallon for just a couple bucks. Mix it with water in a spray bottle, and you've got a whole lot of cleaner.

I mix about 1/3 - 1/2 parts vinegar, the rest water. If you don't like your kitchen smelling like salad dressing, then throw in a few drops of sweet orange oil or lemon juice. Not only will it smell better, but it cuts through grease a little more as well.

This is such a safe option that you'll never have to worry about its effects on children. It's a deodorizer, an antibacterial spray, a soap scum remover, a degreaser, and so much more.

If you have tough stains on the countertops or the stove top, spray the vinegar on and use a little baking soda with a paper towel. I use it on my stovetop regularly; it's great at removing all that burnt stuff.

Vinegar can also be used in the laundry as an alternative to fabric softeners. It also helps remove stains, bacterias, odors, and static. Not to worry - your clothes will not smell of vinegar when they're done!

For more information on chemical-free cleaning, I've found a blog that I'm really enjoying. It's at checblog.org. I've linked to it in my sidebar. It's by The Children's Health Environmental Coalition, and I'm really enjoying the information I'm finding there. If you've found any other websites or blogs of this nature, let me know. I'd love to link to a few more!