5 More Everyday Non-Toxic Cleaners

1. Lemons

If your fridge needs a pick-me-up, dab a cotton ball or sponge in lemon juice and leave it in the refrigerator for a few hours to neutralize odours. More? Marble counters are easily stained, but cutting a lemon in half, dipping the exposed flesh in salt and rubbing vigorously should get rid of the toughest stains. You can also squirt lemon juice anywhere that attracts insects, like door thresholds or windowsills to keep ants away. Washing your floor with the juice of four lemons and 2 litres of water will deter roaches and fleas, which hate the smell.

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2. Vinegar

White vinegar is the perfect multipurpose cleaner, and it’s gentler than many commercial cleaners. Stuck drain? Unclog it by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda followed by 1 cup of vinegar, then flush with hot water a few minutes later. Dull chrome, or stainless steel surfaces? Mist with vinegar, and buff with a soft cloth to revive shine.

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3. Rubbing Alcohol

So many uses! If you have grimy blinds, try wrapping a spatula in a clean rag (secure it with a rubber band) and dipping it in rubbing alcohol. Slide it between the slats for more efficient dusting. To clean windows and prevent frosting in winter, you can wash the glass with a solution of 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol to 1 litre of water. (Polish with newspaper after it dries to add extra shine.) If fruit flies are a problem, fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and mist the pesky creatures. Just make sure to wipe them up where they fall.

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4. Salt

You can sprinkle salt on a sponge and clean coffee pots, mugs, or glassware better than a dishwasher can, plus you can extend the life of a grimy kitchen sponge by soaking it overnight in 1/4 cup of salt per litre of water. If your cast-iron pan rusts after washing, pour about 1/4 cup of salt in while it’s hot, and scrub with a stiff wire brush. Then wipe it clean, and apply a light coat of vegetable oil before using or storing.

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5. Boiling Water

Pure boiling water will banish stuck-on grease as well as many commercial products. Dip a rag in boiling water, and use a little elbow grease to wipe down your stovetop or microwave. For extra sticky messes, mix a little baking soda with the water to make a paste, then scrub away.

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Want more handy uses for your everyday objects?

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