my top 3 all-natural homemade cleaning products

Scientists predict that, unless we reduce our impact on the environment now, the damage we are creating will be irreversible. We all need to recognize the issue and jump in and make some changes. For me, making my own cleaning products was a start. Knowing I am doing something to reduce my household's impact on the world was key. Hopefully, by sharing these remedies with you, we will make an even bigger impact on the world. Of course, the fact that these products work amazingly well is a bonus! Here's to us and here's to Mother Earth!

LEMON DUST CLOTHS (my favorite)

This is my favorite go-to cleaning method for furniture and
painted woodwork, including kitchen and bathroom cabinets. 

You will need - water, white distilled vinegar, lemon or olive oil, dust cloths or old rags, lemons and an airtight jar with a screw lid 

1) Make a solution of two parts water, two parts vinegar, and two drops olive oil. Soak your dust cloths or rags in this solution. Squeeze out the excess, leaving them just damp.

2) Pare the rind from several lemons, depending on how many rags you are preparing, and lay a couple of pieces on each smoothed-out dust cloth.

3) Fold each one, or roll it up, and store in a clean jam jar with an extra piece of lemon peel. The jar should be airtight with a screw lid.

4) Prepare several dust cloths at a time, and store them until needed. Make sure to wash or boil the dust cloths regularly after use.

To use - pull out one of the rags, discard the lemon rind and wipe over furniture and painted wood.

GLASS CLEANER

I love this recipe - it is truly streak free!
I recommend making it after five - wink, wink.

You will need - water, white distilled vinegar, vodka, essential oil of your choice and a 16 oz. spray bottle

1) In your spray bottle, combine 1 1/4 cup water, 1/2 cup 80 proof vodka (the cheaper the better), 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar and 8 drops of any essential oil you like (I love using orange but change to peppermint during the holidays). Add nozzle - done! Now, while the vodka is out.....

To use - give the bottle a little shake before using, spray onto glass, then rub the glass dry with a soft cloth. Polish to a sheen using a crumpled newspaper.

ALL PURPOSE CLEANER

This works beautifully on counter tops, sinks, toys,
outdoor furniture, or anything that needs a good cleaning. 

You will need - water, your favorite eco-friendly liquid soap and a spray bottle

1) Pour 12 oz. of water into your spray bottle. Add 2 tablespoons of your favorite liquid soap. I like Mrs. Meyers and change up the scent depending on the season.

To use - give the spray bottle a little shake, then spray and wipe with a clean old rag.

Next week we will get into the nitty gritty of kitchen cleaning!

Until next time,

la chasse au bonheur