I’m going to be honest—I can be pretty lazy when it comes to cleaning. That’s actually why I started using homemade green cleaners that could tackle most of the cleaning around my house without a cabinet full of different products. However, using vinegar and borax presents its own challenges. Vinegar doesn’t smell great, and borax has sparked some debate over its safety.
Vinegar has built a reputation as a go-to green cleaner. While it’s effective at cutting through grease and handy as a rinse aid in places with hard water, it’s not the all-purpose solution it’s often claimed to be. I do keep a bottle infused with organic orange and lemon peels for degreasing, but I wouldn’t use it as my main cleaner.
Borax is another topic with mixed reviews. Some people swear by it as a safe cleaning agent, while others raise concerns about its safety. I think the truth lies somewhere in between: it’s fine for cleaning but not suitable for personal care products, as the real risks relate more to boric acid, which is different. Although I still trust borax for certain cleaning tasks, I’ve been searching for alternatives because its inclusion in cleaning recipes often invites divisive opinions.
My go-to all-purpose cleaner originally included borax, but after deciding to step back from it, I found myself back at square one. Plus, time became a significant factor. With nearly six kids, a dog, house duties, homeschooling, a blog, and maintaining friendships, I realized I needed to streamline my routine. Though I still enjoy making many natural cleaners and most of our meals from scratch, I had to find ways to free up my time. Luckily, the market now offers natural cleaning products that weren’t available when I first started.
Thanks to community support for healthy options, you can now purchase effective natural cleaners instead of solely relying on DIY. I’ve received multiple inquiries from readers who prefer ready-made solutions, and I’m thrilled to share some affordable, efficient options.
Recently, I found several cleaner concentrates that are both budget-friendly and effective. While DIY solutions are still fantastic alternatives to harmful chemicals, having pre-made options is a relief. Simple recipes like homemade all-purpose or vinegar-based cleaners work well, but having pre-made products offers more flexibility.
With a small selection of green cleaners, whether homemade or concentrated, you can pretty much clean your entire house efficiently. For around $50, I can maintain my home naturally for a whole year! What kind of cleaners do you use? Are you skeptical, like I once was? Why not give it a shot?
