When you are working with chemicals when cleaning your home and reaching into the nooks and crannies of your house, you have to be careful. I was a professional cleaner for many years so I have put together some helpful safety tips that will ensure you enjoy the benefits of a clean home safely.
If in doubt
If you are every feeling unsure when you reach for a product then listen to yourself. You will be feeling unsure for a reason.
Before using a product always read the label.
When you are playing scientist with your cleaning caddy be extra careful when mixing cleaning ingredients. If you aren’t 100 percent positive that you can do it, DON’T!
NEVER ever mix bleach and vinegar, if you do you will be at risk of burning eyes and possibly lung damage.
NEVER ever mix bleach and ammonia, these can possibly burn your lungs, some washing up liquids contain ammonia so be careful and read those labels.
Label your homemade cleaning products
I absolutely love to make my own cleaning products, but when I do I always make sure I label the bottles. Liquids can looks the same but when cleaning you need to know what you are working with. You may think that you will remember which bottle is which, but two bottles with cloudy mixture are going to look very similar the next time you pull them out.
Make sure you also pop on the label that date you made the product as some will only have cleaning power for A few hours/days whilst others will last months.
Don’t mix products
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do NOT listen to advise on TIK TOK unless you are following a reputable person, boiling zoflora on your hob to make your kitchen smell nice is a big NO NO! If you want to boil anything on the hob simply boil water with some slices of lemon for a fresh kitchen smell.
There is so much bad advice it scare me but simply follow this general rule of thumb, just assume that two chemicals can NOT be mixed. Always do your research and be mindful of which sources you trust your safety with.
Protect your family
Ensure you keep your cleaning products in a safe space with the lids firmly fastened. Kids often go exploring when they are young and you need to keep them safe. Place products up high if you can in secure cupboards. Install child-proof latches on under-sink cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom.
When you are done cleaning, properly dispose of paper towels and rags that touched the cleaning chemicals, your pet could easily grab and chew away.
Use the right tools
Always ensure you have the right tools. For example, if you have high ceilings, don’t attempt to climb a ladder to dust the lights fixtures or remove cobwebs. Instead use extendable dusting wand that allows you to effortlessly reach these hard-to-reach areas. Buy the right tools so that you’re able to clean safely and efficiently. Improvising isn’t recommended
My favourite natural cleaning products
White vinegar – the hero of natural cleaning products this should be the staple for any cleaning caddy. Use it watered down to clean windows and taps . Add a small amount to the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine. It sounds bizarre but it will actually leave you with super soft clothes. It’s also great to help preserve the life of your washing machine and your clothes won’t smell of chips trust me, the vinegar disperses very quickly! Another great use for white vinegar is to use it in the garden as a weed killer, mix a litre of vinegar with 3 large spoons of salt and washing up liquid for a child and pet friendly way of keeping the weeds under control.
Bicarbonate of soda – another household essential, bicarb is a great natural deodoriser and abrasive. Mix equal parts with water for a sink or bath scrub. Remove oil/grease stains from carpets and clothing by sprinkling bicarb on, leaving for 15 mins then hoovering or washing away.
Juicy lemons are one of the most powerful non-toxic cleaning products that is probably hiding away in your fridge right now. The humble lemon can be used instead of bleach, add a cup of lemon juice to your washing for bright whites with a refreshing scent. Cut a lemon in half and rub it over shower doors to remove mildew and water stains. Use the other half of the lemon to rub on your taps to make them bright and shiny.
Want to learn more about to clean safely then grab a copy of one of my books and I will show you how to clean your house and tidy up your life