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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
About The Author: 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".
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