Are “natural” cleaners really the better choice for our families and the environment, or is it just hype? With so many cleaning products now claiming to be “eco-friendly” or “all-natural”, it can be hard to know which ones actually work. Read on to find out what really works, and what might just be a marketing pitch.
What are Natural Cleaners?
The term “natural cleaner” refers to any cleaning product that claims to be free from certain chemicals or harsh ingredients that may be harmful to the environment or human health. These can include things like parabens, phthalates, chlorine, and petrochemicals. Instead, many natural cleaners feature simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
The idea behind natural cleaners is to provide an alternative to traditional cleaning products, while still effectively cleaning without posing a risk to our health or the planet.
Benefits of Natural Cleaners
Natural cleaners have many benefits, aside from being less harmful to the environment and our health. For example, they are often more gentle on surfaces, which means they can be used to clean a wider variety of items without causing damage. Some natural cleaners can also be used to remove stubborn stains.
Another benefit of natural cleaners is that they can be a more cost-effective choice. Since many natural cleaners can be made at home with common household items like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, they can be much cheaper than many traditional cleaners.
Do Natural Cleaners Actually Work?
Many people are skeptical of natural cleaners, because they may not always work as well as harsher chemicals. This is especially true for stains and heavy-duty cleaning jobs.
While it’s true that not all natural cleaners are created equal, there are plenty of effective options for most general household cleaning tasks. For example, vinegar and baking soda can be used to remove stains and deodorize, while grapefruit seed extract can be used to disinfect.
What to Look for in a Natural Cleaner
When shopping for a natural cleaner, there are some things you should look for to ensure you get an effective product. First, look for cleaners that are certified by EcoCert, NSF International or Leaping Bunny. These certifications verify that the cleaners have been rigorously tested for effectiveness and safety.
Additionally, look for cleaners that contain non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients. This will help minimize the impact the cleaner has on your health and the environment.
DIY Natural Cleaner Recipes
If you prefer to make your own natural cleaners at home, there are many recipes and ideas. Here are a few to get you started:
Glass and Surface Cleaner
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup vinegar
– 4-6 drops essential oil (to add a pleasant scent)
Mix the ingredients together and use to clean glass and other surfaces around the house.
All-Purpose Cleaner
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup vinegar
– 2 tsp liquid castile soap
– 10-15 drops essential oil (for a pleasant scent)
This cleaner can be used to clean most surfaces, including walls, floors, and countertops.
Furniture Polish
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2-3 drops essential oil (for a pleasant scent)
Mix the ingredients together and use it to polish wood furniture.
Conclusion
There are many effective natural cleaners available that can be a great choice for families looking to reduce their exposure to chemicals. While some natural cleaners may be less effective than their traditional counterparts, there are plenty of good options for the majority of household cleaning tasks. Additionally, making your own natural cleaners at home can be an affordable and effective way to keep your home clean. Look for cleaners that are certified and contain non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients, and you’re well on your way to a cleaner, greener home.
