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Spring cleaning the natural way

The flowers are in the full bloom, the weather is getting warmer, and the days are getting longer, in other words spring is here! However, before we get too excited, let’s not forget what else happens in this most wonderful of seasons: Spring cleaning. Yes, once again it’s time to bust out the brushes and mops and give your home a good going over.

However, before you go out and grab some supplies, have you considered spring cleaning your home the natural way? If like me, your a bit bothered by the unpronounceable chemicals contained in store bought cleaning products it might be worth trying a few homemade cleaners that can get the job done just as well as the real thing. We’ve rounded up some DIY cleaning products you can make yourself.

Far from being a chore in of itself, mixing up some home cleaning products is remarkably simple and chances are you already have most of the necessary ingredients in your kitchen or laundry room.

Carpet cleaner

 

Wall to wall carpets can be wonderful — especially in winter — but they can be a nightmare to clean. Try mixing up a batch of this simple carpet cleaner to spot clean problem areas of your carpet.

Combine the following into a plastic spray bottle:

  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
  • 250 millimetres of warm water
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda

When using the mixture, just spray a generous amount over the stain and gently scrub with a sponge or a cloth.

All-purpose cleaner

 

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Regardless of your spring cleaning aspirations you’re probably going to need some all-purpose cleaner. This simple recipe should fit the bill.

Combine in a plastic spray bottle:

  • 1/2 cup of white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of baking soda
  • A few drops of your favourite essential oil or lemon juice
  • Enough water the fill the rest of the bottle

Once the ingredients are in the bottle give it a good shake and get cleaning!

Grout cleaner

 

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Cleaning shower and bathroom grout is just the worst, but this two ingredient DIY recipe should make the job a little easier.

Combine in a bowl:

  • 3/4 cup of bleach
  • 1/4 cup of baking soda

Mix the bleach and baking soda together until forms a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stained grout areas. Let sit for 30 minutes or so. After 30 minutes have passed give the grout a good scrub with a brush. After scrubbing, let stand for another 15 minutes. Finally rinse away the cleaner and marvel at your sparkling shower!

Oven grates and racks

 

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Here are two low-effort methods for cleaning encrusted oven racks and grates.

To clean burner grates place them in a heavy duty ziplock bag with 1/4 cup of ammonia and leave them overnight. The next morning you’ll be able to simply wipe them clean with a sponge.

To clean oven racks put them in the bathtub and fill the tub with enough hot water to cover the racks. Mix in about 1/2 cup of dishwashing liquid and leave the racks to soak overnight. The next morning, any stains can be wiped away with a sponge.

Furniture polish

 

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In the midst of all the spring cleaning hubbub it’s easy to forget the wooden furniture. This easy to make furniture polish should leave your chairs and tables looking like new.

Combine in a plastic or glass bottle:

  • 3/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon juice

After combining the ingredients give the bottle a shake. Place a small amount of the mixture onto a cloth or paper towel and use it polish your wooden furniture. Keep the mixture in the fridge to preserve it.

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