Cleaning Basics
• Vinegar - removes mildew and stains. Cleans glass,
grout, and fireplaces.
• Baking Soda - cleans, deodorizes, removes stains, polishes, and softens
fabrics. Can be used on plastic, vinyl, upholstery, carpets, stainless
steel, down drains and in refrigerators.
• Pure Soap - cleans most everything
• Ammonia - cleans linoleum, carpets, and most appliances. Can irritate
the skin and eyes. Area must be well ventilated. Never mix with bleach
because it creates a poisonous gas!
Most cleaning products are 95% water and the remaining
5% includes useless substances to make it look or smell nice. Here are
some cheaper alternatives you can make yourself.
All Purpose
Cleaner
50 mL baking soda
250 mL ammonia
125 mL white vinegar
4 L warm water
Drain Opener
250 mL baking soda
250 mL salt
125 mL white vinegar
1 kettle boiling water
Pour first 3 ingredients down drain and leave for about 15 minutes.
Then pour down the boiling water.
Laundry Detergent
250 mL pure soap flakes or powder
25 to 50 mL washing soda
Increase the washing soda if you have really hard water in your area.
