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Theres nothing quite like a spotlessly clean home.
But knowing which products to use can be trickyespecially if you want to avoid chemical cleaners.
With more people seeking alternative cleaning methods, more natural or non-toxic options are on the market than ever.
But how do you know which ones are legit and which are scams?
We spoke to two experts to learn how to build a non-toxic cleaning routine.
What is non-toxic cleaning?
That is why focusing on the actual ingredients is key.
The key is learning how to read the ingredient labels.
Instead, learn how to recognize natural alternatives to those chemical ingredients.
You dont need a cabinet full of store-bought cleaners to keep your home fresh and spotless, says Mock.
A few simple, natural ingredients can do the job just as wellif not better.
Keep a large container in your cleaning closet or under your sink to use around the house.
White vinegar works as a natural disinfectant, cuts through grease, and removes odors, Ascher says.
Baking soda is perfect for scrubbing, deodorizing, and lifting stains, says Ascher.
Rubbing alcohol disinfects, degreases, and leaves glass streak-free, explains Mock.
Hydrogen peroxide is great for brightening laundry, disinfecting surfaces, and tackling certain stains, explains Ascher.
Its a disinfectant and bleaching agent, which makes it ideal for cleaning your home.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a plant-derived astringent commonly used to treat acne and inflammatory skin conditions.
But its also an excellent cleaning ingredient to keep in your arsenal.
you’re free to also use Castile soap to clean your home from top to bottom.
Mock also likes Castile soap, calling it a plant based cleaner that lifts dirt and grime naturally.
See our guide onfive clever ways to use Castile soap around your home.
Heres how our experts clean their homes, room by room.
Kitchen
A basic all-purpose cleaner is a necessity for any kitchen.
Mock shares an easy recipe for a natural kitchen cleaner.
Shake well before each use, then apply to surfaces and scrub with a rag or sponge.
Bathroom
Your bathroom gets grimy fastespecially in the tub or shower.
Ascher recommends using a homemade all-purpose cleaner in your living space.
Grab a spray bottle and mix the pre-measured ingredients together before adding the essential oil.
But Mock prefers using a simple, homemade stain remover.
Spray directly onto stains, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wash as usual.
This solution helps lift stains without harsh chemicals.
Mock uses a homemade recipe to clean and disinfect her mattress.
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress, she recommends.
This helps kill dust mites that feed on dead skin and dander, keeping your bed fresher and cleaner.
Let it air dry before making the bed.
Mocks recipe leaves glass squeaky clean without the use of toxic ingredients.
Wipe with a microfiber cloth or even newspaper for a flawless finish.
She also recommends using this mixture to cleanchrome, stainless steel, hard tiles, and similar surfaces.
Floors
Hard floor cleaners often contain ammonia, which can give off a strong smell.
High concentrations of ammonia can cause health issues.
Ascher prefers using a homemade floor cleaner in her home.
Combine all the ingredients in a mop bucket and stir well.
