Ditch the chemicals and try these green solutions for a spotless (and healthier) house.
Orange peel naturally cleans water spots
Next time you peel an orange, don’t chuck the skin. The peel erases water spots on metal faucets, and dissolves light gunk build-up in sinks. You can also shine up dull wood with the white-membrane side of the peel; the orange’s oils act like a natural polish and leave a nice glow. It also is good for repelling insects
Toothpaste naturally cleans dirty walls
Dirty walls? Squirt a little non-gel toothpaste on the spots and scrub with a rag or brush, and then rinse with water. The paste also acts as a natural deodorant against sour smells, so try scrubbing inside stinky baby bottles with toothpaste and then rinsing thoroughly.
Vinegar naturally cleans clogs
White vinegar is the perfect multipurpose cleaner, and it’s gentler than many commercial cleaners. Stuck drain? Unclog it by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar, then flush with hot water a few minutes later. Dull chrome, or stainless steel surfaces? Mist with vinegar, and buff with a soft cloth to revive shine.
Salt naturally cleans rust
You can sprinkle salt on a sponge and clean coffee pots, mugs, or glassware better than a dishwasher can, plus you can extend the life of a grimy kitchen sponge by soaking it overnight in 1/4 cup of salt per quart of water. If your cast-iron pan rusts after washing, pour about 1/4 cup of salt in while it’s hot, and scrub with a stiff wire brush. Then wipe it clean, and apply a light coat of vegetable oil before using or storing.
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