5 Low-Tox Cleaning Swaps (That actually work!)
Let's be honest. People don't like low-tox cleaning options because they don't think it's as effective as harsh chemicals. My husband specifically boycotts a ton of low-tox suggestions because he deems them ineffective. I want to share my low-tox options that pass the husband snuff test.
- Pumice Stone for Ovens & Toilets
No not the stuff you use on your feet! I looked up this option because our oven gets absolutely wrecked by all of our cooking. And I cannot stand the smell of that corrosive agent being burned into our nostrils as the oven roasts at 500F. I regret not taking a before & after picture because I don't think I realized how blue the inside of our oven was when it was brand new. Pumice stone can be used on ceramics - so think oven, toilet, the grill, some metal (not polished). Just throw on some rubber gloves (learned this the hard way after realizing I was also rubbing off my skin after a good few hours of scrubbing) keep a bowl of water next to you to keep the stone wet and off you go. It works miracles.
- Hydrogen Peroxide as Spot Remover
So, we have these nearly white armchairs that we purchased before kids and before we realized our dog decided that she preferred them rather than her bed. So inevitably, they get grimy. Where my husband would opt for oxy clean + some fragranced junk. I decided to mix 2 tbsp hydrogen peroxide, with about a dime size squirt of Sal's Suds and filled the rest up with water. Soaked my chairs, scrubbed them in with a brush and let sit for about an hour. Went in with my Green Clean and tadaaaah as good as new. I was amazed. We use it on our rug, and any fabric surface now to remove any spots that inevitably arise. Sprinkle on some baking soda prior to spraying for extra power!
- Olive Oil for Furniture Polish
We have a leather couch that gets so dry during our winters. I mix a cleaning solution that consists of 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tbsp vinegar, water and a few drops of essential oil and rub in a circular motion. It seems to help add a sheen and some much needed moisture to the leather as well as on wood furniture
- Vinegar for Shower Spray
In order to keep the hard water build up on our showers, I have a spray bottle I the bathrooms of 1 cup vinegar, remainder water and essential oils to help my future self with cleaning. I use probably about 10-15 drops EO to try and offset the vinegar smell.
- Baking Soda instead of Comet or Barkeepers Friend
Baking soda is the best. Whenever I have a stuck on baking or cooking stain on a pan I sprinkle some baking soda and it's sufficiently abrasive to break down the stain but it also makes everything sparkle and shine! Add a little bit of vinegar or spent lemon for extra oomf.
Let me know if you have any more awesome swaps!
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