Well, it turns out that yes, the chemicals and fumes ARE toxic and very harmful to you and your whole family. Bleach and ammonia create deadly fumes when mixed together -- separately they are, of course, harmful as well. They can cause respiratory problems, asthma, and have even been linked to hyperactivity in children as a result of repeated and/or prolonged exposure. To begin replacing these toxic items in your house-cleaning routine, there are a five basics you should always keep on hand:
Basic Ingredients...
Baking Soda: non abrasive scrubber and great fabric/laundry detergent
Vinegar: glass cleaner, film remover and de-greaser (careful not to use on floors with wax unless you want to strip off the wax) ALSO please note that when mixed with Baking Soda the two will neutralize each other -- so avoid that combination when mixing up cleaners.
Vegetable Based Liquid Soap: for all-purpose cleaning, sudsing agent in scrubbers or spray cleaners, or dilute with water for fresh-scented mop solution. I always use Dr. Bronner's Eucalyptus and Lavender soaps.
Borax or other Washing Powder: this IS toxic so keep away from children and animals. Great to mix with water and vinegar for strong de-greasing spray in the kitchen (only need about 1-2 Tablespoons per spray bottle mixed with 1/4 c vinegar and the rest water -- add essential oils to cover up the vinegar smell (something strong like lemon or peppermint)
Distilled Water: warm to mix with powders, room temp for all other purposes. The reason you should use distilled water is to avoid any chemicals that may be in your tap water (chlorine, for example) that may interfere with the natural cleaners.
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Lara E. Kaskabas's Natural Family Health topic, please visit the Discussions page.