We discussed the ‘why’ of spring cleaning, but now we need the cleaning products.
If you are like me, you want the kids involved in the cleaning process, but you don’t want all those chemicals near the kids. And let’s be real – natural cleaners can be spendy.
Here are some tips for spring cleaning on a budget:
Make your own natural cleaners. You can get the same quality of clean by making your own cleaners with a few natural ingredients and less money. For instance, baking soda, white vinegar, and lemon juice can be combined to create several types of cleaners.
Essential oils also make for some great cleaners. In fact, most essential oil companies make a cleaner, for example, doTERRA uses OnGuard Cleanser Concentrate which is a great oil for killing germs.
Use the supplies you already have. There is no need to go out and buy new cleaning supplies if you already have a ready supply of sponges, mops and cloths you can use, wash and reuse. Using what you have will keep your money in your pocket.
Share with a friend. Perhaps you really need to clean the cobwebs from a vaulted ceiling but your vacuum will not reach. Your friend has a vacuum that will extend to reach those cobwebs. You may have something she needs, as well. Sharing the cleaning can also make the task less stressful and much more fun.
Even better? Make your own homemade cleaners together. Splitting costs is sure to save you both some money!
Make your own disinfectant. Combine white vinegar, water, borax and essential oils to make a homemade disinfectant. Lavender and Lemon; Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Wild Orange; On Guard; or Grapefruit and On Guard are great essential oils for a disinfectant. (You can find the recipe on doterrablog.com)
A mixture of hot water and baking soda in a microwave safe dish, microwaved on high for 30 second to 1 minute and then allowed to sit for a while will help soften hard food particles.
Hot water, baking soda, and lemon juice (or lemon essential oil) are great for cleaning hard water stains. Spray the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes and then wipe it clean. This can be used in the kitchen and in the bathroom.
Baking soda is a great way to clean and deodorize your carpet. Just sprinkle over the carpet, let sit and then vacuum it up. If you want to deodorize and scent the carpet – give it a fresh clean smell – you can add essential oils to the baking soda.
Plan your cleaning strategy. Rather than blindly going from one room to another, have a cleaning strategy. This way you can go to the store knowing what you need instead of just blindly grabbing what you think you need and going over budget.
Once you have all your cleaning supplies, it’s time to get everyone involved.
Next week, I will have a round up of chore lists to help get the kids involved in the process!
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