Don’t you love it when an item can multi-task? An article of clothing that can be worn multiple ways? Sold. A kitchen gadget that can do it all? Sign us up! And how about an inexpensive pantry staple that can not only be used for cooking an baking, but cleaning and disinfecting, too?
You read that right – maintaining a clean and disinfected home doesn’t always require expensive chemical-filled cleaners. A variety of pantry staples have powerful cleaning and disinfecting properties, many of which you probably have in your home.
Here are some common items you can use to keep your home spotless and germ-free.
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent. Its mild abrasiveness makes it excellent for scrubbing surfaces without scratching them. Use it to clean sinks, countertops, and stovetops. To clean a sink, sprinkle baking soda over the surface, scrub with a damp sponge, and rinse thoroughly. For stubborn stains, make a paste with water and baking soda, apply it to the stain, let it sit, and scrub off.
2. White Vinegar
White vinegar is an effective natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Its acidity helps break down dirt, grime, and bacteria. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to create an all-purpose cleaner. This solution can clean glass, countertops, and bathroom surfaces, and more.
3. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another acidic cleaner that can cut through grease and disinfect surfaces. Use lemon juice to clean cutting boards by sprinkling salt on the board, then scrubbing with a halved lemon. Lemon juice can also freshen up your garbage disposal. Pour a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda down the drain, let it fizz, and then rinse with hot water.
4. Salt
Salt is a natural abrasive that can enhance the cleaning power of other ingredients. Combine salt with vinegar or lemon juice to scrub away grime. Salt is particularly effective for cleaning cast iron pans. Sprinkle salt on the pan, scrub with a damp cloth, and rinse.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant that can kill bacteria, viruses, and mold. Pour hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and spray on the desired surfaces. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. For extra whitening power, mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to clean grout and tile.
6. Olive Oil
Olive oil can be used to polish wood and stainless steel surfaces. For wood furniture, mix two parts olive oil with one part lemon juice. Apply the mixture to a cloth and rub it onto the wood to clean and polish. For stainless steel appliances, dab a small amount of olive oil onto a cloth and buff the surface to remove smudges and fingerprints.
7. Cornstarch
Cornstarch is great for cleaning windows and polishing furniture. Make a window cleaner by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a quart of warm water. Spray on windows, wipe with a cloth, and buff to a shine. To polish furniture, mix equal parts cornstarch and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the furniture, let it dry, and then buff with a soft cloth.
These natural cleaners are effective and eco-friendly, making your home clean and safe for your family. And for cleaner, healthier indoor air, contact Zach Heating & Cooling to learn about our indoor air quality solutions. From air filtration to humidity control, we can help you decide how best to improve the air quality in your home so you can breathe a little easier.