Green Cleaning: All-Purpose Cleaner

Unlike most commercial cleaning brands, “soft chemistry” products are cheaper, safer and environmentally friendly. They are a natural alternative to chemical cleaning that do the same effective job without giving you a nasty allergic reaction. But the best part of all is that you can make them right in your kitchen, so you know exactly what goes into them.

One of the most common cleaners I use is the all-purpose surface cleaner. It works great on kitchen countertops, toilet seats, sinks and just about anything else you can think of--all while deodorizing bad smells. All you need is vinegar and essential oils. The acetic acid in the vinegar is what helps get the tough job done coupled with the disinfectant properties of an essential oil. It is non-toxic and will keep indefinitely. So get rid of your old household cleaner and go green with this fresh alternative.

All-Purpose Cleaner

1 pint of distilled white vinegar
20-30 drops of essential

Essential Oils with disinfectant properties include:
Eucalyptus Oil
Tea Tree Oil
Grapefruit Seed Extract

OR try bacteria fighting herb essential oils such as:
Lavender
Rosemary
Sage
Mint

1. Pour vinegar into an empty spray bottle and add drops of essential oil. Shake well before every use. No need to rinse. If vinegar smell is too strong, you may also add 1 cup of water to dilute.

Source: Home Hints and Tips and
Annie B. Bond.