6 Kitchen Ingredients that Double as Green Cleaners

Do you want to get rid of your commercial cleaning products and switch to healthier alternatives? Or, maybe you just ran out of cleaners and don't feel like running to the store...

Green homemade cleaning products are a healthier cleaning alternative; they don't contain all the harmful chemicals that make your lungs burn and eyes water. Get a clean, healthy home with these kitchen ingredients. 

1. Vinegar

Vinegar is one of the most common ingredients used in homemade cleaning products. I use it to disinfect counters, clean the bathroom, windows, and so on. 

To make a useful all-purpose spray, mix two tablespoons white, distilled vinegar with two cups warm water, one teaspoon Borax, a half teaspoon of dishwashing soap, ten drops lavender essential oil, and five drops rosemary oil together in a spray bottle. Shake well before spraying surfaces and wiping them with a clean, damp cloth. 

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda can be used as an abrasive cleaner for stubborn spots. Make a thick paste by mixing a little bit of warm water with the soda. Apply it to the surface and scrub with a rag until it comes clean. 

It works for scrubbing ovens, stove tops, and bathtubs; avoid scrubbing surfaces that are easily dulled by abrasive cleaners. Leave an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator to absorb food odors. 

3. Olive Oil

Did you know that olive oil can be used as a natural cleaning product? I recently learned that it has many uses around the home. Get rid of scratches on leather furniture by pouring a small amount onto a cotton cloth and rub the leather in a circular motion. You can shine stainless steel, polish furniture, and clean dusty plant leaves with this popular kitchen ingredient.  

Coconut oil is another great alternative if you have it on hand.

4. Lemon

Lemon is a common scent in commercial furniture polishes. Alternatively, polish your furniture and get the lemon fragrance without all the harmful chemicals: Mix two parts olive oil with one part lemon juice and work the mixture into furniture with a soft cloth. 

After cleaning your refrigerator, cut a lemon in half and leave it on a shelf, or rub lemon juice into the shelves for a freshly scented fridge. 

5. Vodka

Yes, you can even clean your house with vodka. Shine your bathroom and kitchen fixtures by applying a small amount of the alcohol to a soft cloth and rubbing in a circular motion on each fixture. 

Or, mix a teaspoon of vodka with 25 drops of your favorite essential oils in a small spray bottle for a homemade air freshener. Fill the bottle with warm water and shake well before each use. Avoid spraying directly onto furniture and clothing, since the alcohol can cause staining. 

6. Vanilla Extract

Do you love the aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies? You can simulate the experience without all the work by baking vanilla in the oven. Another way to freshen your home's interior with vanilla is to place a few drops on a cotton ball and place it on a shelf in each room you wish to freshen. 

These are only a few examples of kitchen ingredients that double as green cleaners. What are some of your favorites? Are there any you use that aren't on the list?