Category: Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks

For those suffering from allergies and for those of us who want to cut back on the chemicals in our homes, there are four cleaning products you should never be without.  Some of these things you may already have in your home.  You can purchase generous-size containers of all of them for under $15 and they will last for months.  The cleaning products are white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and club soda.

White vinegar.  Use white vinegar to remove heavy soap scum and mineral deposits from showers, tubs and sinks.  Use it to remove soap scum and mildew form plastic shower curtains.  Vinegar can also cut grease on dishes and crystal.  Vinegar is amazing!  It can neutralize pet odors, deter bugs, clean laundry, clean toilets, and even remove lint from dark clothes.

Baking soda.  Baking soda is a great deodorizer, cleaner, and mild abrasive.  Use it as you would a soft-scrubbing product or cleanser in tubs and sinks.  Baking soda can remove perspiration stains and odor from clothing, keep food disposals fresh, remove crayon from hard surfaces, polish silver, clean up pet vomit, clean screen stains, and even be used as a bug killer for aphids!

Lemon juice.  Lemon juice is a nature's bleach and disinfectant.  Apply to clothes to remove fruit-based stains.  Lemon juice removes rust from clothes, cleans bleach spots off Formica counters, bleaches wooden breadboards, and can be used as a bleach alternative when washing clothes!

Club soda.  Club soda is the best emergency spotter there is.  Keep club soda on hand to clean up spills on carpet and clothing.  Club soda can remove red wine, coffee, tea, soda, juice, and any other spills you can think of!  Club soda can even work on some old stains too!

If someone in your family has asthma or allergies, green cleaning products or natural green cleaning products are safer to clean your home with than chemical cleaners.  Natural products are safe, user-friendly and good for the environment!

Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about you and your family.  For more information on healthy green cleaning and green living, please log on to greencleancertified.com and maidbrigade.com.  For more information on "Household Cleaning Products and Breast Cancer", please watch our video at greencleancertified.com/greentv.

Sometimes cleaning can be a problem for those suffering from allergies.  All triggers, such as dust mites, pet allergens, and mold spores, must be kept under control, but how do you minimize them without making allergy symptoms worse?

According to a study from the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, about 62 percent of patients reported having allergy symptoms caused by indoor allergens. 

There are certain things you can do to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and still end up with a healthy green clean home.

What cleaning products worsen allergy symptoms?

Avoid products that have strong odors, such as ammonia, and also products that produce particulates, including air fresheners.  Aerosol spray cleaners are other items to avoid.  Not only can they trigger allergy symptoms, but a recent study also found that weekly use of cleaning sprays was linked with increases in asthma, asthma medication use, and wheezing. More frequent use of these cleaners was also associated with greater risk.

What cleaning products should allergy sufferers use?

Use products that have minimal odors.  Use dust cloths (microfiber cloths) and mops that pick up and retain the dust instead of those that push it back into the air.  Vacuums with HEPA filters are good choices  for removing allergens. 

Bedding, curtains, and kids' stuffed animals should be washed regularly with hot water to keep allergen accumulation low.

What about natural green cleaning products?

Look for products that have the Green Seal of Approval.  These products are approved by Green Seal, an organization that tests products to make sure they work and are also good for the environment. 

Making your own green cleaning products is another healthy and cheaper option.  Make your own glass cleaner by mixing a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with a quart of water.  Make your own furniture polish by combining a teaspoon of lemon juice with a pint of mineral or vegetable oil.  Deodorize carpets by sprinkling baking soda on them, wait 15 minutes, and vacuum.  Cedar chips, lavender flowers, rosemary, mint, or white peppercorns are great air fresheners for your home.

Maid Brigade Cleaning Service would like to know how you keep allergen accumulation low in your home.  Share your ideas and tips with us on how to spring clean this allergy season!

Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about you and your family.  For more information on healthy green cleaning and green living, please log on to greencleancertified.com and maidbrigade.com.  For more information on "Household Cleaning Products and Breast Cancer", please watch our video at greencleancertified.com/greentv.

Natural green cleaning in your home is not only great for the environment, but healthy for your family.  Here are some ways that you can use baking soda to clean your home:

A bowl of baking soda in your fridge will help remove excess moisture and absorb odors.

Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge for cleaning out your refrigerator and benchtops without scratching.

Dissolve a couple of tablespoons of baking soda in water in a microwave safe bowl, then bring to the boil in your microwave. Allow to sit for a minute or two, then wipe to remove any baked on stains.

Sprinkling baking soda in the bottom of garbage bags will help control odors.

To clean your dishwasher thoroughly, run it through a cycle and use baking soda instead of detergent.

Baking soda can be thrown on stove fires to extinguish the flames. The carbon dioxide generated when the powder burns starves the fire of oxygen.

Wash chemicals and pesticides off fruits and vegetables in a pot filled with water and 3 - 4 tablespoons of baking soda added.

Anywhere that moisture is a problem, such as cupboards under sinks, place a bowl of baking soda to help control humidity. You'll need to occasionally stir the powder for maximum effective life.

Apply a baking soda and water paste on an old toothbrush and lightly brush crayon marks off of walls.

Water stains on wooden floors can be removed with a sponge dampened in a solution of baking soda dissolved in water.

Sprinkle some baking soda into your vacuum bag to help reduce musty/pet smells being spread throughout your house when vacuuming.

Sprinkle baking soda on rugs and carpets before vacuuming as a deodorizing treatment. Most carpet powders you buy are baking soda based.  (Not recommended for areas that are very humid as the baking soda may stay in the carpet).

Soak your mop in a mixture of 4 tablespoons baking soda and a gallon of water to minimize smell.

Stains on porcelain sinks, toilets and plastics can be removed by applying a layer of baking soda and then using a damp sponge.

To clear blocked drains, throw a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a couple of jugs of boiling water.

Baking soda can deter ants by pouring a solid line in areas of activity and they won't cross it.

Mix a tablespoon of baking soda, a teaspoon of dish detergent and a gallon of water to make a spray for treating roses against black spot fungus.

Work a baking soda and water paste onto clothes prior to washing to help remove stains from the fabric.

Half a cup of baking soda added to a full load of washing will help brighten your wash and remove odors.

Mix a paste of baking soda and vinegar and apply with a pot scourer to remove light rusting.

A baking soda and water paste applied to chrome surfaces will leave chrome shining!

Baking soda applied to fresh grease and oil spills on your garage floor will draw away the oil, which can then be scraped off.

Baking soda lightly sprinkled and mixed into cat litter will help control odor.

Eliminate odor after you've cleaned up pet accidents by sprinkling over the dampened area with baking soda.  Allow to dry and then vacuum.

Filling up some old socks with baking soda and place into shoes overnight will help remove foot odors.

A thick paste of baking soda and water applied to bug bites can provide relief.

A half teaspoon of baking soda mixed into a glass of water can act as mouthwash.

Sprinkle baking soda onto regular toothpaste to create a whitening toothpaste.

To clean jewelry, use a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.  Rinse off and then polish with a soft cloth.

Here are some helpful tips to use when cleaning your kitchen:

To clean the microwave, heat a bowl of water and lemon slices in your microwave for about 45 seconds, then wipe.  Stains will be easier to remove and old food odors are neutralized.

Half a lemon stored in your fridge will help control and eliminate unpleasant smells.

Hot lemon juice and baking soda is a good drain cleaner that is safe to use in septic systems.  If you have a garbage disposal unit, throw in some lemon peel from time to time while it's working in order to keep it smelling fresh.

Rub lemon juice into your wooden chopping board, leave overnight and then rinse.  Wood chopping boards appear to have anti-bacterial properties anyway, but the lemon will help kill off any remaining germs plus neutralize odors.

A teaspoon of lemon juice added to your dishwashing detergent can help boost grease cutting power.

For a great oven cleaner, combine 1.2 liters of warm water, 2 teaspoons borax, and 2 tablespoons of castile soap.  Spray on solution, wait 20 minutes, wipe with a cloth and rinse with clean water.

For an all-purpose cleaner, combine 3 tablespoons white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon washing soda, 1/2 teaspoon castile soap, and 2 cups of hot water in a spray bottle.  Shake and spray!

To remove rust, sprinkle a little salt on the rust.  Squeeze a lime over the salt until it is well soaked.  Let the mixture set for two to three hours.  Use the leftover rind to scrub the residue.

To make a cleanser that is great for countertops, mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water.  

To clean your floors, mix 1 gallon of water with 1/8 cup of liquid dish soap, and 1/8 cup of white vinegar and damp mop.

For a good window cleaner, mix 3 tablespoons of white vinegar with one galloon of cool water.  Wipe with a newspaper to avoid streaks.

Sprinkling baking soda in the bottom of garbage bags will help to control odors as you add trash.

To give your dishwasher a good clean, run it through a cycle and use baking soda instead of detergent.

Sprinkle baking soda onto a damp sponge for cleaning out the fridge without scratching it.

Clean stainless steel sinks with a paste of baking soda and vinegar.  Don't let the foaming scare you - it works great!

Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about you and your family.  For more information on healthy green cleaning and green living, please log on to greencleancertified.com and maidbrigade.com.  For more information on "Household Cleaning Products and Breast Cancer", please watch our video at greencleancertified.com/greentv.

Behind the shine of the bleaches, foams and sprays, are artificial fragrances and toxic chemicals that can contribute to indoor air pollution, which can be harmful if inhaled or touched, and may be poisonous if ingested.About 90 percent of all accidental poisonings occur in the home. In fact, some cleaners are among the most toxic products we can buy. Some cleaners even pollute the ground water or contain flammable ingredients and corrosives that can irritate eyes just by opening the containers. Many of them could send us to the hospital or even cause death if swallowed.The potential dangers of toxic home cleaning products have many people on a "go-green" path. In 2009, sales of natural cleaning products in the United States totaled $150 Million. Some of these cleaners are labeled with big promises and a hefty price tag. However, just because the ingredients in green cleaners are plant-based or "natural" does not necessarily mean they are safe.

Everyday products found in your home can be used to make non-toxic cleaners for many of your cleaning needs. They are safe to keep around the house and children, and they are easier on your bank account.

Here are some recipes to try:

Furniture Polish.  In a spray bottle, mix the juice of 1 lemon, a teaspoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of water.  Shake and apply to the furniture.  Allow the mixture to sit on the furniture for 5 minutes before buffing it with a dry polishing cloth.

Disinfectant.  Combine 2 cups warm water and 1 tablespoon borax.  Dissolve borax in water and pour mixture through a funnel into a refillable spray bottle.

Linoleum and Laminate Floor Cleaner.  Combine 2 gallons warm water and 1/4 cup lemon juice or white vinegar.  Mix together in a bucket.  Add 1/4 cup liquid soap for added cleaning power, if desired.

Carpeted Floors.  To green clean carpeted floors, make sure to buy a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.  Vacuum at least 2-3 times a week.  Avoid chemical rug cleaners.  Instead use a low-moisture or dry cleaning rug shampoo with hydrogen peroxide or biological/enzymatic cleaners.

Tile Floor Cleaner.  Use a gallon of water with a few teaspoons of tea tree oil.  Add a few squirts of liquid soap.  This can also be used on linoleum floors.

Hardwood Floors.  Dampen a towel using a solution of 1/4 cup vinegar to 1 gallon of water.  Wring all the moisture out of the towel until just barely damp.  Towels are the only safe way to damp mop a hardwood floor.  Excess water from self wringing mops works down between the boards eventually warping the boards at the edges.

Computer Keyboard and TV Remote.  The TV remote and the computer keyboard are probably two of the germiest things in the home.  Wipe the tv remote down with an alcohol wipe at least twice a week to prevent the spread of germs and viruses. To clean your keyboard, gently shake out the crumbs or vacuum it.  Wipe the keys and the mouse with an alcohol wipe or a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol dabbed on it.

Microfiber Cloths and Terry Towels.  Hand-sized terry towels are a bacteria-free alternative to sponges.  Use wet or dry and throw into the wash when dirty.  Microfiber cloths are terrific for dusting and polishing, no cleanser required.

Did you know it is possible to have a "clean and green" kitchen?

One of the things I disliked about cleaning the kitchen and the bathroom is having to use strong, toxic chemicals and cleaners to get the job done.  But no more harsh chemicals for me!  Green cleaning is the way to go!  It not only healthier for my family, but for also for the environment.  Chhosing to make my own natural cleaning products from ingredients I have at home also saves me money.  

Try these green cleaning tips: 

Club Soda is a great cleaner for stainless steel sinks. Pour some on a cloth and wipe.  The club soda will remove stains created by food and soap scum.

Vinegar is mildly acidic so it works very well to clean grease, soap scum, mineral deposits, mildew and coffee stains.  Vinegar is also a great glass cleaner.  Use with old newspaper to get that spotless clean on glass doors and windows.

Toothpaste is a great cleaner for chrome because it removes rust and mineral build up. Use only plain toothpaste with no added whiteners or tarter control agents. Old toothbrushes with toothpaste on them work great when trying to get around shower heads and drains.

Lemon juice has antibacterial qualities as well as a fresh and invigorating smell. Lemons can be used to clean soap scum and hard water deposits and are also great to clean and shine copper and brass. Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda on the cut section. Use the lemon to scrub dishes, sinks and stains on counters.  Mixing 1 cup olive oil with ½ cup lemon juice makes a great furniture polish for your hardwood furniture.
Don’t forget to recycle your lemon peels and orange peels by putting them down your garbage disposal.  It freshens the drain much better than the very expensive gel tablets sold for the same purpose.

Baking soda can be used in place of abrasive cleansers. It also works as a great deodorizer and not just in the refrigerator and freezer - Try a box in the bathroom and the closets!

Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about you and your family.  For more information on healthy green cleaning and green living, please log on to greencleancertified.com and maidbrigade.com.  For more information on "Household Cleaning Products and Breast Cancer", please watch our video at greencleancertified.com/greentv.