A natural cleaner is a cleaning substance made from ingredients sourced from nature, rather than synthetic chemicals, often utilizing common household items.
These cleaners offer an alternative to conventional cleaning products, often appealing to those seeking eco-friendly, non-toxic, and potentially less expensive options. The "big three" natural cleaners are widely recognized as baking soda, lemon, and vinegar, each possessing distinct cleaning properties.
The "Big Three" Natural Cleaners:
| Natural Cleaner | Cleaning Action | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda | Cleans, deodorizes, mild abrasive | Removing odors, scrubbing surfaces, cleaning appliances |
| Lemon | Cuts grease, disinfects (due to acidity), deodorizes | Cleaning cutting boards, removing stains, polishing furniture (mixed with olive oil), disinfecting surfaces |
| Vinegar | Cuts grease, disinfects (mildly), removes hard water stains | Cleaning windows, descaling kettles and coffee makers, removing mildew, disinfecting surfaces |
How They Work Together:
The combination of baking soda and vinegar creates a bubbling reaction. While this reaction is often touted as providing a deeper clean, it's important to note that the resulting solution is mostly water with a bit of sodium acetate. The initial bubbling action can help loosen debris before the reaction completes.
Benefits of Natural Cleaners:
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals and lowers environmental impact.
- Non-Toxic: Safer for humans and pets compared to many conventional cleaners.
- Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than purchasing commercial cleaning products.
- Readily Available: Ingredients are usually found in most homes.
Examples of Natural Cleaning Recipes:
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Oven Cleaner: Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to oven surfaces, let sit overnight, and then scrub clean.
- Glass Cleaner: Mix 1/4 cup white vinegar with 2 cups water in a spray bottle.
While natural cleaners can be effective, it's essential to research specific applications and test solutions on inconspicuous areas before widespread use, as some materials may react negatively to certain natural substances.
