subject: 4 Easy Steps to a Cleaner Home [print this page] Keeping your house clean can be an overwhelming-seeming job at times and of course, daily maintenance is key, but sometimes you also need to tackle the big periodic cleaning jobs that make daily maintenance much easier. Here are some eco-friendly tips for tackling 4 of the big and nasty chores that we all must face sooner or later. If you approach them methodically, these dreaded tasks don't have to be so bad, and you'll feel much better about yourself afterwards.
Oven Cleaning - If you have a self-cleaning oven, you can pat yourself on the back and move on to the next tip. For the rest of us, here is a non-toxic technique that will help you with this dreaded chore. Yes, it's possible to clean your greasy oven without harsh chemicals - you just need baking soda and water. Don't believe me? Just try it! Cover the bottom of the oven with about 1/4 inch of baking soda. Use a spray bottle to moisten it thoroughly and leave it overnight. Wipe it out the next day with rags or paper towels and clean out the residue with a damp sponge.
Refrigerator Cleaning - Clean your fridge out as well with natural cleansers. Take all food out of the fridge and throw any science projects into the compost bin (you do have a compost bin, don't you?). Store the good food in an ice chest or another fridge if you have one. Clean the shelves and walls with a solution of water mixed with mild soap, vinegar or baking soda for an eco-friendly and economical alternative to smelly, toxic store-bought cleansing products.
Bathroom Cleaning - There's no need to spend a bundle on noxious bathroom cleansers. Clean the scum and mildew from your shower curtain with white vinegar. It works great and the vinegar smell will disappear when it dries. Clean shower doors and tracks with vinegar, as well. Make a paste from vinegar and baking soda to clean stubborn toilet stains and use toothpaste to clean the rings that form in the bottom of the bathroom sink.
Carpet Cleaning - A great carpet cleaner can be made with a 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1 cup cornmeal, and 1 cup Borax. Just sprinkle it onto the carpet or rug, work in to the nape with a cloth, then leave for a few hours before vacuuming. This will disinfect and clean your carpet and remove odors.
There are times when professional cleaning services may be required. Find a green-friendly professional among the many cleaning services London can provide. There is sure to be one in your neighborhood. Remember, a little diligence and a practical approach can help you stay clean, safe and green without emptying your pocketbook."
