Simple Household Cleaning Tips
Many homeowners are interested in understanding the products they use around the house. Reading labels, following product instructions, and choosing products appropriate for each surface can help you make informed cleaning decisions.
Cleaning product ingredients and formulas can vary by brand and product type. Before using any cleaner, review the label, follow the manufacturer’s directions, and test the product in a small area when appropriate.
Some households prefer to use common household ingredients for certain routine cleaning tasks. The recipes below are general options for basic home cleaning. Always check whether the mixture is appropriate for the surface you plan to clean.
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Before making or using any household cleaning mixture, avoid combining products unless the combination is specifically recommended by a reliable product label or manufacturer. Use cleaning products only as directed, keep them away from children and pets, and avoid using any mixture on carpets, upholstery, stone, wood, or delicate surfaces unless it is approved for that surface.
NOTE: These cleaning recipes are intended for general household use only. For carpets, furniture, rugs, or specialty surfaces, contact Allaire Chem-Dry to ask about professional cleaning options. CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment today.
Common Household Cleaning Ingredients
• White vinegar — Often used in household cleaning mixtures. Check surface compatibility before use, especially on natural stone, wood, grout, or delicate finishes.
• Baking soda — Commonly used for light scrubbing and deodorizing tasks around the home. Test before use on delicate surfaces.
• Lemon juice — Sometimes used in household cleaning mixtures. Because it is acidic, avoid using it on surfaces that may be affected by acid, such as some stone or specialty finishes.
• Castile soap — A soap that may be used for certain household cleaning tasks. Follow label instructions and rinse surfaces as directed.
• Washing soda — Also known as sodium carbonate. Use according to the product label and avoid contact with surfaces or materials that are not compatible with it.
• Borax — Used by some households for laundry or cleaning tasks. Follow product label directions and store safely.
• Essential oils — Sometimes added for fragrance. Use sparingly, follow product guidance, and avoid using around surfaces or household members that may be sensitive to fragrances.
5 Simple Household Cleaning Recipes
Simple All-Purpose Cleaner
Mix equal amounts of water and white vinegar, a few drops of castile soap, and a small amount of essential oil in a spray bottle. Test on a small area before use, and avoid using vinegar-based mixtures on natural stone or other acid-sensitive surfaces.
Automatic Dishwasher Powder
- 2 cups washing soda
- 1 cup borax
- 1 cup baking soda
Combine all ingredients and store in a clearly labeled container. Use according to your dishwasher manufacturer’s guidance and check whether the mixture is appropriate for your dishwasher and dishware.
Fabric Softener Option
- 1 gallon vinegar
- Optional: a few drops of peppermint essential oil
Check your washing machine and fabric care instructions before using vinegar or essential oils in laundry.
Dirt and Grease Cleaning Mixture
- 1 gallon hot water
- 2 tablespoons liquid castile soap
- ¼ cup washing soda
- 1 cup vinegar
- Optional: a few drops of essential oil
Test the mixture on a small area first and avoid using it on delicate, porous, or acid-sensitive surfaces.
Glass Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol
- Optional: a few drops of peppermint essential oil
Pour ingredients into a clearly labeled spray bottle and shake gently. Use with a clean microfiber cloth and test on a small area first.
These general cleaning ideas can be part of a routine home care plan. For carpets, upholstery, rugs, tile, grout, or other specialty surfaces, call Allaire Chem-Dry to ask about professional cleaning services.