Frogs

Frogs

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Cleaning Products Could Make You Sick

Commercial cleaning products are full of toxic chemicals. Lets learn how to concoct ones that are both safe and effective. Almost all cleaning products in supermarkets contain toxic ingredients.

There are studies that show indoor air is actually more polluted than outdoor air because of the chemicals. All the chemicals can aggravate allergies and respiratory issues in your family and pets. Airing your house out after you cleaning might help, but there is a much healthier and cheaper way.

Ingredients already on hand, which include baking soda, cornstarch, lemon, white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, vegetable oil, and plain soap in liquid, bar or flake form.

General all-purpose cleaner. Mix ½ cup of vinegar and ¼ cup of baking soda with ½ gallon of water. You can use this to remove water stains in the bathroom and take grime off mirrors and windows—and it will keep for quite awhile. Experiment with your newly found cleaners and let me know what you did.

Make your own Air freshener. Place baking soda and lemon juice in small containers around the house to absorb odors. Fragrances emitted by store-bought air fresheners are created using toxic chemicals. You can diminish cooking smells by simmering a small amount of vinegar in water on the stove while you work in the kitchen. Simmering cinnamon or other spices in water works, too. Grind up some lemon in the garbage disposal, or keep coffee grounds out on your counter, and have an abundance of houseplants—they’ll soak up toxins and freshen your air naturally. You can also place a sliced fresh onion on a plate in your garage or basement to take away odors that occur there also.

Note: Some small animals and birds are especially succeptible to chemicals. Protect your pets using natural ingredients.