Thursday, January 14, 2010

DIY Cleanser

I have had this book for some years now, and have been using the recipes for home cleansers to great effect. My favorite is the Earth Scrub:
Mix 1 2/3 cup baking soda with 1/2 cup of liquid soap in a bowl. Dilute with 1/2 cup water. Add 2 tbsp vinegar last (you'll see why if you don't). Stir until the lumps are gone, then pour into a 16 - to - 20oz squirt bottle. Make sure the lid is on well, to avoid drying out.
Truly, this stuff is great - the baking soda is super good at getting rid of grease and isn't damaging to wood (if it doesn't linger). I think you do need to be careful, though, when using it on aluminum, as it can do damage if left on too long.
I have noticed something about making my own cleaners: they make me want to clean! After I made this yesterday, I ended up scrubbing counters, fridge, oven, cabinets, floor and even the kettle! And no, I'm not nesting...