Less toxic alternatives

AIR FRESHENERS/DEODORIZERS

1.)Leave open boxes of baking soda in refrigerators, closets and bathrooms.
2.)Saturate a cotton ball with pure vanilla; place on a saucer in refrigerator or car.
3.)Set out white vinegar in open dishes to destroy odors.
4.)Set out potpourri in open dishes.
5.)Burn scented candles.

CLEANERS

1.)Mix vinegar with salt and water for a good surface cleaner
2.)Dissolve baking soda in water for a general cleaner.
3.)For washing dishes by hand, use 1/2 c. baking soda with a mild dishwashing liquid to help cut grease and food.
4.)For automatic dishwashers choose a detergent with the lowest phosphate content listed on the package.
5.)For a good glass cleaner combine a quart of water with 1/4 to 1/2 c. of white vinegar, 1 to 2 T. of lemon juice or 1 to 2 T. rubbing alcohol.

MILDEW CLEANERS

1.)Scrub mildew spots with baking soda or Borax; or sponge with white vinegar.
2.)Scrub area with a paste of lemon juice or white vinegar and salt.
3.)To clean mildew from a shower curtain: machine wash with 1/2 c. soap and 1/2 c. baking soda adding 1c. of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.

UPHOLSTERY RUG & CARPET CLEANERS

1.)Use a non-aerosol soap based cleaner.
2.)Clean spills immediately with club soda.
3.)To clean red wine stains, rub a thick layer of salt on the spill then sponge up after the spill has been absorbed.

SCOURING POWDERS

1.)Use baking soda or salt.
2.)Use a non-chlorinated commercial scouring powder.

TOILET BOWL CLEANERS

1.)Scrub with a solution of 1/2 c. Borax in a gallon of water for cleaning and disinfecting.
2.)Clean frequently with a solution of baking soda and water. Sprinkle baking soda around the rim and scrub with a toilet brush as needed.

DRAIN OPENERS

1.)To unclog a drain, pour 1/4 c. of baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 c. of white vinegar. Let sit for a few minutes then pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to flush.
2.)Pour 1/4 c. salt down the drain, followed by boiling water, to keep drains unclogged.
3.)Pouring boiling water down the drain once a week can keep it from getting blocked.
4.)To prevent clogged drains, always use a drain strainer. Use a mechanical snake or plunger to unclog a drain.