Spring cleaning

Once the sun starts shining and windows start opening…well, let’s tell the truth. The dirt starts showing.

All the grime that blended in so well when the days were gray and lights were low now makes it presence known like an unwanted house guest. To make matters worse, the end of the semester is likely the most impossible time to clean – or the best, depending on how badly a distraction is needed.

You know your friends or siblings, or perhaps even your mother, will be coming for graduation or to carry you away for the summer. And might see the filth and think you aren’t as smart as you are claiming to become.

It might look bad, and you might be tempted to grab some bleach or scrubbing bubbles. But wait. There is a better way.

Those products have ingredients that have been linked to asthma, respiratory problems, and reproductive system damage such as decreased fertility, menstrual changes, miscarriage, and cancer. One source of these studies is “Disinfectant Overkill: How Too Clean May Be Hazardous to Our Health,” and is put out by Women’s Voice for the Earth.

These studies do not mean that the dirt should be denied its dusting. What they mean is that alternatives, which are cheaper than chemical products, are worth considering.

Consider this simple shopping list that will clean almost everything:

White vinegar

Baking soda

Ammonia

Borax

Hydrogen peroxide

Lemon juice

Salt

Spray bottle

The nice thing about these ingredients for cleaners is that many can be used as ingredients for food, too! See the side bar for a few simple recipes and tips, or check out some of the links for more specific recipes and ideas.

Take care – these simple substances can still irritate your skin. Wear gloves if you are sensitive and keep them away from children.