It’s safe to say that cleaning has been closer to the top of everyone’s to do list than ever before.
Not only that, but we’re starting to think our grandmas had the right idea when they used common household products to clean!
Many effective cleaning products can be created with things you already have in your pantry or fridge, while lots of the common cleaning products we buy are made with harmful, abrasive chemicals.
Whether you’re starting an annual deep clean or want to restock cleaning products, check out these 5 low-cost supplies to keep your home clean.
#1 Bleach
Bleach is a powerful tool for cleaning your home, but it’s especially important in the bathroom. You must still be careful with bleach, which does have harmful chemicals in it if used incorrectly.
However, bleach is a powerhouse that will make your bathroom sparkle and kill mold, mildew, bacteria, and viruses. Bleach disinfects, brightens, and whites (so be careful to only use it on surfaces that it won’t discolor!), and it also helps remove odors.
Check for splash-less options with the Clorox products. There should be a special cap that helps control the pour so you can avoid spills and remove even more stains.
Clorox Clean Up also removes stains and kills germs! Bleach costs anywhere from $2.99 to $6, depending on the store.
#2 Baking soda
Baking soda isn’t just useful for cooking! It also helps neutralize odors and is great for cleaning.
Using baking soda as a household cleaner can help you remove stains, eliminate odors, and clean tough items like the oven, microwave, and grout. Baking soda will also freshen up a stinky fridge by neutralizing the odors.
Lastly, baking soda is an excellent, safe alternative to commercial air fresheners. It actually neutralizes the particles that create odors, rather than masking them.
#3 White or Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a brown, often murky liquid that contains 5-6% acetic acid. It’s made by crushing apples, extracting the liquid, and then fermenting.
Apple cider vinegar is an ideal household cleaner because it has antibacterial properties. Mix up equal parts apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar) and water in an empty spray bottle.
You might need to use a little extra elbow grease on built-up dirt, but your home will be free of the toxins that come with commercial cleaners.
#4 Hydrogen Peroxide
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that hydrogen peroxide kills years, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, depending on its concentration. Diluted hydrogen peroxide products with about 3% hydrogen peroxide are the best for household use, as higher concentrations can be hazardous.
Hydrogen peroxide is also included on the Environmental Protection Agency’s list of antimicrobials active for use against the COVID-19 virus.
You can use hydrogen peroxide to remove mold and mildew stains from dishwashers, and to disinfect countertops and cutting boards.
#5 Essential oils
Essential oils have a number of health benefits—including some of the best smells for cleaning!
The most common use for essential oils is inhaling them from the bottle or using a diffuser or humidifier, but you can also dilute essential oils in a carrier oil and put them on your skin.
Essential oil is also a great part of an all-purpose household cleaner. In an empty spray bottle, combine ¼ cup white vinegar, 1 ¾ cups water, and 30 drops of essential oils.
You could use all one scent, or try a combination of scents like lavender and lemon; eucalyptus, peppermint, and wild orange; grapefruit and lavender; or some other combination!
The best essential oils for disinfecting include cinnamon, clove, lemon, orange, and rosemary.
Related: 7 Tips for Organizing Your Clothes
Keeping your home clean can be annoying but it definitely gives you peace of mind. Doing a deep clean once a month will help keep your home fresh and virus free.
What cleaning supplies are your go-to choices? Have you tried cleaning your home with any products we listed?
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