p-p-p-p-p-poison, poison!

There’s been a lot of chit chat as of late giving traditional cleaning products a bad rap. “Is this bottle of Kablamo! Super Ultra Muerte Spray really that harmful?” you may ask. Yes. It truly is. There have been studies done and hello, studies are always right. Now before you scream “I hate this uppity hippy chick!* I <3 bleach!” think about it: would you really spray substances such as ammonia and a myriad of unidentified, unpronounceable chemicals all over your house, roll around in it, bathe in it, pour yourself a nice glass over ice and drink it? Of course you wouldn’t, because they are toxic. Remember Mr. Yuk**?

So why spray this stuff all over your house, breathe it in, and absorb these chemicals into your skin when there are natural, plant-based cleaning agents out there that obliterate those nasty germs and bacteria just as effectively? Brands such as Seventh Generation and Bio-Kleen are eco-responsible companies that also happen to make really great, safe cleaning options that won’t pollute you or our planet. For an even cheaper and simpler option, why not whip up a batch of your very own? Below you’ll find a recipe for an all-purpose cleaner that you can spray wildly about your abode without a care in the world!

• Mix 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent (I use Seventh Generation’s Free & Clear Natural Dish Liquid) and 3/4 cup warm water in a spray bottle.

• Using a funnel (or just don’t spill Clumsy!), pour the solution into a spray bottle. I label my bottles and write the recipe on the back so it’s easy to make another batch. Give it a shake to blend before use and spray to your heart’s content!

This will clean your home beautifully and because of the acidity of the vinegar, it works especially well neutralizing alkaline dirt, stains and odors. It’s the first cleaner I reach for to spot clean my hardwoods, clean the bathroom, and eliminate any odor or stain left by Dork Dog, Dragon Kitty or Crazy Baby. If you want to add an extra kick of germ-killing power, add up to a 1/2 teaspoon antibacterial essential oils of your choice. Today I used a combination of 18 drops lemon, 14 drops peppermint and 2 drops lavender. Just be sure to work in a well-ventilated area, away from pets and children. If scent isn’t your thing, consider using grapefruit seed extract in lieu of the oils. Twenty-five drops will get the job done.

*Just who is this uppity hippy chick? Read all about moi here!

**Getting poisoned is the pits. If this happens to you, call your poison center at 800.222.1222 or dial 911 if it’s a true emergency. For the record, you won’t want to pour yourself a glass of this cleaner either.