If you're out of your favorite cleaning products or facing a particularly tough kitchen mess, an alternative solution might be right in your pantry. Household staples, like baking soda and vinegar, can be effective all-purpose cleaners. Learn some DIY solutions before tackling those messes.
These types of cleaners can be used in kitchens, bathrooms and other household surfaces to quickly clean up spills. Combine one part white vinegar with one part water either in a bucket or empty spray bottle. For a fresh scent, add a rosemary sprig or lemon rind to the mixture. When making your own, keep in mind that this cleaner should not be used as a disinfectant. Some store-bought all-purpose cleaners have anti-bacterial ingredients added to them, but a more DIY approach does not.
If there's an unpleasant smell lingering in your fridge, this deodorizer trick can help. Combine 4 tablespoons of baking soda to 1 quart of warm water. Use this solution with a paper towel to wipe down the inside of your fridge. This cleaner also works to shine and remove spots from stainless steel appliances, so your fridge can be sparkling clean inside and out.
For tough odors in garbage disposals, pour half a cup of baking soda straight from the box into the disposal. Then, add half a cup of vinegar which will make the mixture start to foam. Cover the disposal with your sink stopper and wait 5 minutes. The sink stopper keeps the foaming inside for maximum cleaning power. For a fresh scent after the deep cleaning, add citrus peels, an ice cube and cool water, and then run the disposal.
Remove streaks, fingerprints and dirt from your windows and mirrors with this quick solution. Combine 2 cups of water with one-quarter cup of distilled white vinegar and half a teaspoon of dish soap. Mix the ingredients in a 24-ounce spray bottle and shake lightly to combine. For a fresh scent, add 1-2 drops of your favorite essential oil. To minimize streaks, spray the solution onto a soft cloth and then wipe down the surface.
Like any cleaning product or solution, learn a few ways to keep you and your family safe when dealing with cleaning products. Never combine ammonia-based cleaners with chlorine bleach or any products that contain bleach as that can potentially create dangerous fumes. Make sure to read all labels before mixing your own cleaning products and label all bottles accordingly with the ingredients.