There are several floor cleaners on the market, including great, well-known brands like Bona, Pine Sol, or even Lysol. While they certainly get the job done, they can be expensive for those who clean their floors on a daily basis. They can also be more harmful to the environment due to the chemicals used, and some people may even be allergic to certain ingredients within the product. If you want to use a more natural approach to cleaning, here are a few alternative “recipes” for floor cleaners.
Water and Vinegar
By combining two things most everyone has access to in their home, you can create a cleaning solution that works even better than some name brand products. Water and vinegar are generally used to wipe up your kitchen counters, but this mixture can also tackle heavy build up on your hard surface floors. Just combine about a gallon of warm water with a half cup of distilled white vinegar, and lightly mop the areas that need it. You can even add a few drops of essential oils to make the solution smell good.
Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, and Water
For hardwood surfaces specifically, you will want whatever cleaner you choose bring out the natural luster and shine. Olive oil naturally moisturizes the wood and polishes it without leaving too much residue behind. The acid of the lemon cuts through dirt and grease, while giving a nice scent to the house. Only use hot water and lightly wet the mop, as to not soak the wood.
Salt, Water, and Vinegar
Between your pets, children, and everyday spills, carpets are take in a lot of damage. Just like the hard surface mixture, use a ratio of water and vinegar. Add two to three tablespoons of salt, depending on how dark or colored the stain appears. Salt acts as a natural absorbent, and soaks up liquid quickly. For stains like pet urine, pour in a few drops of lavender oil. It’s deodorizing properties will fight the bacteria in your carpet and eliminate the smell.
If you have tried using these homemade solutions before, but need something a little stronger, then consider some of the natural products available on the market. Local shops like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and even Walmart, carry all-natural cleaning solutions that are safe to use in your home. For more cleaning tips and tricks, take a look at our other blogs.