There are many natural and organic cleaning products available in stores now. I have been using some of them for a few months and have been very pleased. Most natural products contain ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, plant derived surfactants and essential oils such as lavender or tea tree oil.

There are many benefits to using these newer non-toxic cleaning products. Number one, of course, they are NON TOXIC! Great for households with small children and pets. There are many ingredients in conventional cleaning products that are extremely hazardous to ones health. For example, certain toilet bowl cleaners use an ingredient called Acid Blue 9, which can be carginogenic.

Natural cleaning products are not only better for humans and animals, but better for the environment as well. Ingredients from conventional cleaning products can get into the environment in a few ways. Toilet bowl cleaners and sink cleaners are flushed down toilets and rinsed down sinks. Many products are thrown in the trash where they make their way to landfills, soaking into the ground, contaminating groundwater and the soil.

Switching to natural cleaning products is beneficial to many. Sometimes, they can even be less expensive if you make your own. Mineral oil can be used for a polish on wood furniture. Lemon juice is excellent for removing set in stains, even rush or mildew! Squeeze a few lemon onto the stain and let it soak. Even better, let it soak in the sun. A mixture of apple cider vinegar and water is an excellent bathroom and kitchen cleaner. Use it to clean counters, appliances, toilets and sinks. For cleaning toilets, use a half cup of baking soda and then a cup of vinegar and swish around with a toilet brush. Tea Tree oil has antiseptic qualities and is very concentrated. Purchase a small bottle (around $6) and just a few drops of the oil in a spray bottle of water will clean for weeks. It also has a deodorizing effect, so it is great for cleaning bathrooms.

Even if you do not chose to make your own cleaners, you can use commercially made natural cleaners. Seventh Generation vegetable based cleaners are wonderful and are free and clear of added fragrances. Some of their products are also hypo-allergenic plus they do not have phosphates, acids, caustics, dyes and are not tested on animals.

Mrs. Meyers is another brand of cleaners that I use frequently. All of their cleaning products are made with essential oils, are biodegradable and phosphate-free, and they are not tested on animals. My favorite is their lavender scented counter spray. It makes the entire room you are cleaning smell fabulous. It is hard to believe a cleaner can smell so nice! This cleaner can be used on just about every non-porous surface, like finished wood and tile floors, countertops, walls, porcelain, bathroom fixtures, sealed stone, and more.

Do your family and the environment a favor and switch to natural products!

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