Green Home Cleaning That Actually Works – Getting Your Home Ready for Holiday Guests

It’s the time of year when you’re doing a little more cleaning to prepare for holiday celebrations. Whether you’re planning to have a houseful for just a day or overnight stays, it’s a great feeling when some of the areas of your home that don’t get much regular attention can sparkle. Even when some of those places might not be obvious to your friends and family!

If you’re looking for cleaning methods that won’t break your back, or the bank, and won’t harm your family’s health, we can help. Eco-friendly cleaning has come a long way, and there are some great products on the market, as well as a few DIY recipes that have stood the test of time, to make the job a whole lot easier.

The mirrors in your house don’t require ammonia-based cleaners. Instead, mix four tablespoons of lemon juice with a half-gallon of water. This recipe also is effective on windows and glass on light fixtures. Rubbing alcohol and witch hazel are other good eco-friendly alternatives.

A basic vinegar and water solution is a great choice for cleaning most types of bare floors. Mop a mixture of 1 cup vinegar and 1 gallon warm water onto ceramic tile, linoleum, vinyl, or wood. Save more time and water by not rinsing because it’s not necessary. If you need to spot treat vinyl or tile, dip a cloth in straight lemon juice and rub the stain.

Commercial furniture polish is full of chemicals which are hazardous, and most don’t smell very nice, either. A more natural method comes straight from your kitchen cupboard.  Mix 2 parts olive oil with 1 part lemon juice and use a soft cloth to apply it. It wouldn’t hurt to give the tops of your cabinets a swipe with this combo.

Tarnished copper or brass can reclaim their shine with another kitchen ingredients recipe. A paste made from equal parts salt, vinegar and flour will do the trick. Rub it on with a cloth and let it dry, then use another clean cloth to wipe off the dried paste.

A common issue in bathrooms across the country is moldy tile grout. A spray bottle filled with one part hydrogen peroxide and two parts water can resolve it. Wait at least one hour before rinsing the mixture away.

We hope these tips will take care of most of your housecleaning chores.  Want more? Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter!