Making Your Own Cleaning Products

Looking for a new household cleaning product? You may need to look no further than your kitchen cabinet! Many cleaning products can be made at home. Not only are they less expensive, they are more environmentally friendly. Check out these great ideas for cleaning up around the house.

All Purpose Cleaner
In place of ammonia, use ¼ cup of vinegar to one gallon of water. To clean surfaces in the bathroom, add baking soda to this solution. 

Windows and Glass
Use 1/2 cup vinegar diluted in one gallon warm water. To prevent streaking, don’t wash your windows when they are in direct sunlight. Use crumpled newspapers to dry them. 

Pots and Pans
To remove burned or crusted-on foods, use 2 tablespoons baking soda and 1 quart of water. Bring solution to a boil in the pan, remove from the heat, and let stand until particles are loosened.

Drains
As a preventative, pour 1/4 cup baking soda into the drain. Follow with 1/2 cup vinegar. When the fizzing subsides, pour boiling water into the drain.

Steam Irons and Coffee Makers
Dilute vinegar with water and run this solution through your steam iron or coffee maker. This will remove water residue and deposits.

Labels or Stickers
Soak a sponge or dishrag in warm vinegar. Cover the sticker with the wet sponge and let stand. When the sticker is saturated, it should peel off. If the sticker is not completely removed, try using nail polisher remover or rubbing alcohol. Use this method only on washable surfaces.