Quick Tips: Alternatives to Unsafe Cleaners

    

Hello there. I've been discussing a lot of opinions and views lately, and I want to try something more...practical. I've compiled a list of some common household items that are good to clean with, but still very toxic. I'm going to offer some alternatives to them that work quite well in their stead. Also, please be sure that the surface you are going to clean can handle ANY cleaning product you use, whether it's bleach or vinegar. Okay? Okay. We'll start off with just two really common, really useful replacements so I don't overload you with me green cleaning zeal.

 

1. Abrasive Bleach Cleaners (A.B.C.)- Kosher Salt

     A.B.C.s are used as an aid to scrub off stubborn dirt and stains. It is also quite harmful to be breathed in, as it's a powder, and to ingest. Instead of using A.B.C.s, use some kosher salt instead. Scrub the same way you would with an A.B.C., but use some more muscle this time. Pair the salt with a white distilled vinegar and water solution (1:2 parts should work fine) and you have yourself a powerful green cleaning agent. I use this method myself, and I tell you, it works. MAKE SURE THE SURFACE YOU ARE CLEANING CAN HANDLE THIS.

2. Bleach - Hydrogen Peroxide 

     Bleach, used as a disinfectant, works quite well in killing germs. However, when was the last time you used it to clean your toothbrush, or clean out a cut? God I hope your answer is never. Anyway, Hydrogen Peroxide works quite well in disinfecting most household surfaces (a 3% solution works well, you can also get 10, and 35% solutions too) and it can be used as toothpaste when paired with baking soda, and for disinfecting your hands. Try pouring some hydrogen peroxide on a surface you want to disinfect, like a cutting board, or kitchen countertop. See the fizz? That means germ death. Pour it on, wipe it off. Simple. MAKE SURE THE SURFACE YOU ARE CLEANING CAN HANDLE THIS.

    
Give em' a try. I know I hate using bleach. The smell, the danger of it, everything. A.B.C.s, too. I've inhaled the dust by accident, and it was not fun at all. Quite the opposite, actually. Basically, all I'm saying is that you don't need the overwhelming chemical fumes of bleach and ammonia to get your home clean. Stick to the basics, and see how well they work. I bet you'll be surprised.


Hydrogen Peroxide Picture obtained from this website.
Kosher Salt Picture obtained from this blog.