Cut cleaning costs8 December 2010
Why spend a fortune on cleaning products when traditional cleaners do the job just as effectively?
Traditional cleaner: lemon juice
Surface cleaner, stain remover, deodorizer
- Cut in half and leave in fridge to absorb smells.
- Mix with salt to clean copper and brass.
- Mix with water to whiten whites and brighten colours.
Price: Lemon 20p; 4 x organic lemons £1.59; bottled juice 49p/250 ml
Traditional Cleaner: Bicarbonate of soda
Deodorizer. When mixed with water produces an alkaline solution that dissolves dirt and grease.
- Use dry to lift stains from carpets (e.g. red wine) and marks from surfaces.
- Good for cleaning shower curtains.
Price: 48p per 200g (in baking supplies)
Malt vinegar
Many uses. Surface cleaner, stain remover, descaler, cuts through grease, deodorizes and acts as mild disinfectant.
- Dilute mix is good for cleaning windows (apply on scrunched-up newspaper).
Price: 65p/ 250 ml; 44p/568 ml
Olive oil
Use sparingly as furniture polish and fingerprint remover for stainless steel.
Price: Organic own-brand £2.94/500 ml
Sunlight
Bleacher. Excellent for whitening infants' nappies.
Price: free
Tea-tree oil
Antiseptic, disinfectant. Effective on mould and mildew.
- Dilute as deodorizer for musty clothing.
Price: Essential oil £5.25/10 ml
White-wine vinegar
Many uses. Surface cleaner, stain remover, limescale descaler, cuts through grease, deodorizes and acts as mild disinfectant.
Price: Organic £1.49/500 ml
Want more? 20 tips to a greener lifestyle >
This is an extract from Save cash & save the planet.
© Jason Tester
