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DIY home cleaners

Cleaning supplies are in high demand and many are hard to come by right now. In the meantime, here are some homemade cleaners to try using ingredients you may already have on hand. Safety note: Never combine ammonia-based cleaners with chlorine bleach or products containing bleach (such as powder dishwasher detergent). Always label homemade cleaning supplies with the ingredients in case they’re ingested by a child or animal.

  • All-purpose
    • 1 part white vinegar
    • 1 part water
    • Lemon peel
    • Optional: Rosemary sprigs (for scent)

Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle, shake and leave for one week before using. This solution can clean trash cans, wipe away wall smudges and more. Don’t use acidic cleaners on granite.

  • Kitchen cleaner/deodorizer
    • 4 tablespoons of baking soda
    • 1 quart warm water
    • Optional: 2-3 drops of scented essential oil (for scent)

This works best for kitchen counters, appliances and stainless-steel sinks. To deodorize a garbage disposal, pour the baking soda down the disposal and run water while turning the disposal on for about 10 seconds. To shine stainless-steel surfaces, make a paste with the ingredients, apply the paste with a wet cloth and lightly rub in the metal grain’s direction. Rinse and rub dry.

  • DIY glass cleaner
    • 2 cups of water
    • ½ cup of white or cider vinegar
    • ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol (70% concentration)
    • Optional: 2-3 drops of scented essential oil (for scent)

Combine these ingredients in a spray bottle and clean windows on a cool, overcast day (hot and sunny days will dry the solution too quickly and leave streaks). Spray the solution on a paper towel or soft cloth to clean mirrors.

For additional CDC home cleaning and disinfecting tips, click here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html

Adapted from goodhousekeeping.com.