Disinfecting our homes has become a hot topic of late, and more and more of us are becoming aware of dangerous bacteria and the devastating effects they can have on our health. However, many of us don’t want to use harsh chemicals to keep our homes germ-free and clean, so what are the alternatives?
Thankfully, there are several natural products that will work wonders for cleanliness and not cause harm to the environment, your health or your pocket:
- Make things sparkle with vinegar
This natural disinfectant might not smell like roses, but it sure can clean well! Containing acetic acid with antimicrobial properties, vinegar is fantastic for destroying mould and for cleaning glass and stainless steel, leaving it streak-free. Simply add one tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of water in a spray bottle and use it for cleaning a multitude of grubby spots around your home.
- Bust scum and stains with hydrogen peroxide
Great for household cleaning, hydrogen peroxide can eliminate stains on carpets and clothes, and when mixed with vinegar, it can get rid of unsightly looking scum on tubs, shower stalls and tiles. Odourless, it can be used undiluted and is a good option if your wanting to wash your produce before storage.
- Get squeezing those lemons!
Ageless, tried and tested; lemons can help break down scum better than almost any other product. Full of citric acid, they are also great for sanitizing and disinfecting non-porous surfaces, and they make your home smell way better than a lot of other products.
- An essential oil for cleaning
Full of natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, tea tree oil is commonly recognized as a cosmetic and skincare product, but when mixed with water, it can also work wonderfully well as a cleaning product for a variety of surfaces. If someone has been sick or a pet has made a mess, it can also be used to disinfect the area and get it smelling fresh again.
- Good old soap and water
If you’re looking to get your house clean without the need for heavily disinfecting it, soap and water is a great solution. The soap gives a lather that works to combine oil and water in a way that attracts and suspends dirt, before you rinse it away. With a bucket of hot, soapy water you can successfully clean your floors, countertops and a whole host of other surfaces around your home.
Keeping your home free from germs doesn’t have to cost the Earth, nor does it have to harm it.
