Non-toxic natural Household Cleaners Recipes 101

Non-toxic living has made many people have started to rethink the chemicals they use to keep their living spaces spotless. Commercial cleaning products often contain a host of toxins that can be harmful to both your health and the environment. Fortunately, natural household cleaners provide a safer and more eco-friendly alternative. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of natural cleaning and provide you with detailed DIY recipes, explaining what each cleaner can be used for.

Daily Americans are exposed to 80,000 chemicals in the environment from personal care products, house cleaners, industrial byproducts, all the way to the food that we eat. Toxins not only are harmful to our bodies but also to our environment. Switching to a non-toxic lifestyle can protect you and your family from unwanted and unnecessary toxic chemical exposure. Let’s look at some of the toxic chemicals in cleaners and how they can affect your health.

Ammonia:

• Commonly Found In: Glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners, and some disinfectants.
• Health Concerns: Inhalation of ammonia fumes can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can harm lung function and exacerbate asthma. Mixing ammonia with bleach can create toxic fumes that can be extremely dangerous.

Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite):

• Commonly Found In: Disinfectants, toilet bowl cleaners, and mildew removers.
• Health Concerns: Exposure to bleach can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Mixing bleach with other cleaners can produce toxic chlorine gas. Long-term exposure to bleach is associated with an increased risk of respiratory issues, including asthma.

Phthalates:

• Commonly Found In: Some fragranced household products, such as air fresheners and scented cleaners.
• Health Concerns: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors. They can interfere with hormone regulation and have been linked to reproductive and developmental problems. Phthalates can be absorbed through inhalation and skin contact.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

• Commonly Found In: Many household cleaners, including aerosol sprays, disinfectants, and carpet cleaners.
• Health Concerns: VOCs can evaporate into the air and contribute to indoor air pollution. Short-term exposure can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and dizziness. Long-term exposure is associated with more serious health problems, including respiratory issues, and can exacerbate existing conditions like asthma.

Triclosan:

• Commonly Found In: Antibacterial soaps and some disinfectants.
• Health Concerns: Triclosan is an antimicrobial chemical that has been linked to endocrine disruption and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. It has limited proven benefits over regular soap and water and may pose unnecessary risks to human health and the environment.

Sodium Hydroxide (Lye):

• Commonly Found In: Oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and some degreasers.
• Health Concerns: Lye is a highly caustic substance that can cause severe skin and eye irritation upon contact. Inhalation of lye fumes can lead to respiratory distress and damage the respiratory tract.

2-Butoxyethanol (Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether):

• Commonly Found In: Some window and kitchen cleaners.
• Health Concerns: Exposure to this solvent can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Prolonged exposure may lead to damage to the liver and kidneys. It can also negatively impact fertility and fetal development.

The Benefits of non-toxic house cleaners

1. Safety: One of the primary reasons for using natural household cleaners is safety. Commercial cleaning products can contain harsh chemicals such as ammonia, bleach, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Opting for natural cleaners minimizes these health risks, making them a better choice for families, especially those with children and pets. As well as keep your air clean from toxic chemicals that linger.
2. Eco-Friendly: Using natural cleaning ingredients is a greener approach. The ingredients are typically biodegradable and less harmful to the environment. Reducing your reliance on synthetic chemicals can have a positive impact on waterways and ecosystems.
3. Cost-Effective: Making your own natural cleaning solutions is often more economical than buying commercial products. Basic ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils are affordable and readily available.

Now, let’s explore some DIY natural cleaning recipes, along with explanations of what each cleaner can be used for (Disclaimer: These are just what work for me and my household. Come up with your own natural recipes, check out Pinterest, etc. to find recipes that work for you!):

All-Purpose Cleaner:

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 10-20 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, tea tree, lemon)

What it’s used for:

• Countertops
• Sinks
• Kitchen Appliances
• Bathroom surfaces
• Floors

Lemon and Baking Soda Scrub:

• ingredients:
• 1 lemon
• Baking soda

What its used for:

• Sinks and faucets
• Stovetops
• Ovens
• Bathtubs and showers

Homemade Glass Cleaner:

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

What it’s used for:

• Glass windows and mirrors
• Glass tabletops
• Glass shower doors

Natural Oven Cleaner:

• Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• Water (as needed)

What it’s used for:

• Oven interiors
• Baked-on grease and grime

Tile and Grout Cleaner:

• Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
• 3/4 cup water

What it’s used for:

• Bathroom and kitchen tiles
• Grout lines

Why Non-toxic cleaners are a Better Choice

1. Avoiding Toxin Exposure: As mentioned earlier, natural cleaners help you steer clear of toxins that can be found in commercial products. This is especially important in a time when indoor air quality and reducing chemical exposure are growing concerns.
2. Preserving Indoor Air Quality: Many synthetic cleaners release VOCs into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Natural cleaners have a lower impact on air quality, creating a healthier living environment.
3. Protecting Sensitive Individuals: For those with allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to chemicals, natural cleaners can make a significant difference in reducing health issues and discomfort.
4. Sustainability: Making your own natural cleaners means fewer plastic bottles and packaging, reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Embracing natural household cleaners is not just a trend; it’s a conscious choice for a healthier, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly home. Give these DIY recipes a try and experience the benefits of toxin-free cleaning. You’ll not only achieve a sparkling home but also contribute to a cleaner planet.

As you make the switch to natural cleaning, remember that these ingredients are versatile and can be combined in various ways to address your specific cleaning needs. Explore the world of natural cleaning and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re safeguarding your health and the environment.