cleaning your home organically

I am sure you have heard about the dangers of chemicals and toxins in our foods, products and homes. Almost everywhere we turn there is yet another warning that something we are doing or eating could be potentially deadly. Not to mention all the contradictory information out there, it can be nearly impossible to determine where the truth really lies. We all want to take care of our families and ourselves and one great place to start is in our homes. To many our home is a sanctuary or comfort zone so it is a great place to start.

Natural and organic oils and household ingredients can be used in lou of your standard chemical based cleaner. Next time you pull out your cleaning products, take a min and read over the ingredients list… The most offensive common ingredients, according to a 2006 study by the University of California Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, are ethylene-based glycol, used commonly as a water-soluble solvent in cleaning agents and classified as a hazardous air pollutant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Also, chlorine, often labeled as “sodium hypochlorite” is found in a multitude of products. Not to end there, the Cancer Prevention Coalition, mentions other chemicals found in household cleaners including butyl cellosolve, and crystalline silica, both linked to being an irritant to the eyes and lungs and are likely carcinogens, in addition both likely lead to kidney and liver problems and are reportedly toxic to forming cells.*

I’m my opinion, a cleaning product is there to keep us clean and healthy and unfortunately it appears to be doing the opposite! So what can we do? Why not use what nature provides? Essential oils, baking soda and vinegar are all great products that produce the same or better results than their harmful competition. In my house, I decided to give it a try and began making my own cleaning products. It took a little prep work but was well worth it for a great non-toxic cleaner, here are some of the recipes I followed:

ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER
2 cups organic white vinegar
2 cups water
20-30 drops organic essential oil ( your choice, I would use one with an antibacterial property like basil, chamomile, tea tree…)

TOILET BOWL CLEANER

Sprinkle bowl with baking soda, drizzle with vinegar and let soak. Scrub and flush.

FURNITURE POLISH
¼ cup organic olive oil
¼ cup organic vinegar
20-30 drop organic essential oil

While this is only a step in the right direction I truly believe you will be happy with the result. Not only will you house smell wonderful because of the essential oils, it will give you peace of mind that you are doing the right thing in keeping you and your loved ones happy and healthy!

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