Cleaning Tips

Green Cleaning is simple and fun. Not only is it safe for you and the environment, but you are no longer forced to use the conventional ways of cleaning that are advertised in the media everyday.

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Windows-There is nothing worse than the streaky mess left by cleaning agents. It seems as though you will never get your windows clean. Try some of these tips to make them shine.

Grab a one gallon bucket and just a drop of liquid hand soap. The least amount of suds the better. Scrub windows with a window cleaning brush or for small panes use a soft sponge. Always work from left to right and from top to bottom. Then squeegee off wiping the blade after each pass with a lint free rag, try microfiber for this. Use a damp rung chamois to wipe around all four side of the window edges.

Sink drains-Ever go away for a week and come back to a stinky drain? Here are some tips to freshen up your sink.

Odors

Put a tablespoon of baking soda into the kitchen drain, then slowly pour in 1/4 cup of vinegar or lemon juice and let it stand for 30 minutes. Next run hot water through the drain to eliminate minor buildups and odors.

Clogged drains

Remove any standing water, a small plunger will do the trick. Then pour 1/2 c. baking soda into your drain. Follow this with 1/2 c. white vinegar. The baking soda is basic and the vinegar is acidic, so they will react with a churning action. This should break up the blockage without using any chemicals.

Clothes-Borax is a favorite of mine for treating stains on clothing. You can also use it as a detergent booster when added to the wash with your favorite castile soap. Here are a few recipes from www.20muleteamlaundry.com

Laundry Boosting

Add ½ cup of Borax to every load along with your regular detergent:

Improves cleaning power of detergent
Helps remove tough stains
Natural alternative to color safe bleach
Deodorizes and freshens
Naturally softens hard water

Stains

Works great on tough stains including Tomato Sauce, Oil/Grease, Grass and Ground-in Dirt
Add 1 tablespoon of Borax per gallon of water or 1/2 cup in washer
Pre-soak for at least 30 minutes before washing

Carpet-Spot cleaning the carpet can be a piece of cake with these green cleaning alternatives. Try it.

Greasy Spills

Sprinkle the spill with a little cornmeal and allow it to sit for five minutes.
Sponge the area with vinegar and water.

Red Wine

Sprinkle the spill with salt and let sit for 15 minutes. The salt will absorb the spill and it will turn pink.
Brush or vacuum the salt away.
Clean the area with a mixture of 1/3 cup vinegar and 2/3 cup water.