Some of the items in your pantry (like baking soda and vinegar) work as effective cleaners and, even better, cost next to nothing and are gentler on our environment. So the next time you're staring down a big mess but you're out of your favourite product, don't run to the store — try one mixing up one of these DIY standbys instead.
SCENTED ALL PURPOSE CLEANER
One part white vinegar One part water
Lemon rind
Rosemary sprigs
Combine the above ingredients together, pour into a spray bottle, shake, and then let infuse for a week before using. Once done, you can use the solution to remove hard water stains, clean trash cans, wipe away wall smudges, and much more. Plus, the fruit's acid adds extra cleaning properties — perfect for stubborn stains.
KITCHEN CLEANER AND DEODORISER
4 tablespoons Baking Soda
4 cups warm water
To clean kitchen counters, appliances, and the inside of your refrigerator, all you need is baking soda. "It makes a great deodorizer and can be used to shine stainless steel sinks and appliances," says Carolyn Forte, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab. Just pour the above solution on a clean sponge and wipe.
GLASS CLEANER
2 cups water
1/2 cup white or cider vinegar
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol 70% concentration
1 to 2 drops of orange essential oil for smell (optional)
The next time you need to wash your windows and mirrors, combine these ingredients and pour them in a spray bottle. Hint: Don't clean windows on a hot, sunny day, because the solution will dry too quickly and leave lots of streaks. For mirrors, spray the solution on a paper towel or soft cloth first before wiping.
WATER RING REMOVER
One part white non-gel toothpaste
One part baking soda
Places you've accidentally left a water ring (but not on unfinished wood, lacquer, or antiques), dampen a cloth with water, add the toothpaste mixture and rub with the grain to buff over the spot. Then take a dry cloth and wipe off. Use another soft cloth for a final shine. Polish as you normally would.