Household Cleaners

Better for the Earth. Better for your budget.

Borate-based cleaners are environmentally friendly, unlike many of the household cleaners that are probably under your sink, whose main active ingredients can be caustic or harmful to humans.

In today's eco-minded world, many companies are now starting to offer products that are borate-based. These products are better for the environment, as their natural active ingredients have a low mammalian toxicity and target specific pests.

In addition to the commercially available borate-based products, a quick search of the Internet reveals hundreds of do-it-yourself recipes for a wide array of cleaners. From laundry detergents to furniture cleaners, there seems to be a formulation for every cleaning need in the home.

Here are a few formulas you can try at home using all-natural ingredients.

Scouring Powder

Perfect for toilets, tubs and sinks.

  • Measure 1/4 cup borax; pour into a container.
  • Add 1/4 cup baking soda.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups hot water.
  • Stir until mixed.

Floor and Wall Cleaner

Inexpensive, but effective.

  • Fill a bucket with about 1 gallon of warm water.
  • Add about 1/3 cup borax.
  • Add 1 teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent.
  • Mix in about 1 tablespoon ammonia.

Window Cleaner

Cost just pennies.

  • 2 tbsp. borax
  • 3 c. water
  • Mix in spray bottle

Rub windows dry with newspaper to avoid streaking.

Here's one more that is fun for the kids.

Homemade Slime

Directions:

  • In a glass or ceramic bowl, add 1/2 cup water and 1 cup white glue.
  • Stir in 4 drops food coloring if desired.
  • In another bowl, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon borax in 1/2 cup water.
  • Slowly add the dissolved borax mixture to the glue mixture. Stir well.
  • When not in use, store in a tightly sealed jar.

It's messy, so be careful.