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Vinegar works wonders for cleaning glass as it leaves no residue or streaks. Justin Paget/Getty ImagesIt's the weekend, and you're ready to clean. With rubber gloves on, you're armed with a disinfectant spray in one hand and bleach in the other. But while you’re eager to sanitize your space, you may not want to breathe in all those harsh chemicals floating in the air.
The good news is that you don't have to rely on strong chemicals to keep your home clean and germ-free. Natural alternatives are often more affordable than conventional store-bought cleaners. Here are five safe, budget-friendly methods to disinfect your home.
1. Vinegar
Anyone who's tried vinegar as a cleaner will likely praise it. Despite its pungent odor, vinegar is an effective, all-natural disinfectant. It contains acetic acid, which gives it antimicrobial abilities, making it excellent for killing mold. The uses of vinegar are nearly endless—it’s perfect for cleaning glass and stainless steel without leaving streaks. It also removes mold from toilets and sinks, and it’s safe for washing fresh produce. For tough cleaning jobs, use it full strength, but for routine tasks, just mix one tablespoon of vinegar with 1 cup (29 milliliters) of water in a spray bottle.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide
You’ve likely used hydrogen peroxide to clean a cut before bandaging it, but did you know it’s also effective for cleaning around the house? It works wonders on stains in both carpets and clothes, and when paired with vinegar, it’s a powerful scum remover for tubs and tiles. Unlike vinegar, hydrogen peroxide is odorless and doesn’t require dilution. It’s also great for washing produce and can even be used for whitening your teeth.
3. Lemon Juice
If your home is dealing with alkaline stains like soap scum, reach for the lemon juice. The citric acid in lemons helps break down this stubborn scum more effectively than most other cleaners. Lemons can also be used to polish your copper pots and pans, restoring their shine. Beyond that, these tangy fruits have the ability to sanitize and disinfect non-porous surfaces, while also reducing bacteria on hard surfaces—and they smell much better than vinegar.
When life gives you lemons, make household cleaner!
Glasshouse Images/Getty Images4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a pure essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca tree native to Australia. Known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is widely used in skincare products, but it's also an excellent natural cleaner when diluted with water. It’s so potent that just a few drops are all you need to make an effective cleaning solution. Use it for everyday tasks like cleaning countertops and tiles, and it's especially useful for disinfecting spots where pets have had accidents or children have been sick.
5. Soap and Water
If you're not facing a serious germ problem and just need to tidy up your home, soap and water are the original eco-friendly cleaners. Soap creates a lather that blends oil and water, allowing it to trap and suspend dirt, making it easy to rinse away. A bucket of warm, soapy water is always your best choice for cleaning floors, countertops, and other household surfaces.
If you're ever in a bind, vodka can serve as a disinfectant. With 40 percent alcohol by volume (80 proof), it’s technically effective for tackling mold or mildew. However, we recommend enjoying it as a base for a refreshing cocktail once your cleaning duties are done!
