Household Cleanser Alternatives

The best way to handle household hazardous materials is to avoid them altogether. Below are a few recipes for less-toxic cleaning substitutes. Visit the EPA source reduction page for additional suggestions.

All Purpose Cleaner - Mix 1/2 cup of borax with 1 gallon of water.

Fabric Softener - Add 1/4 cup of baking soda or white vinegar to the rinse cycle.

Furniture Polish - Mix 2 parts vegetable oil and 1 part lemon juice.

Silver Polish - Soak silver in 1 quart of warm water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon  of salt and a small piece of aluminum foil.

Chrome and Stainless Steel Cleaner - Dip dry cloth into flour and rub on the surface.

Wood Floor Cleaner - Dampen cloth with a solution of water and mild soap. Wring cloth almost dry and wipe section by section, so that no section stays wet.

Brass Cleaner - Mix equal parts lemon juice and baking soda to make a paste. Cover brass surface with paste and allow to dry, then quickly wipe off.

Ceramic Tile Cleaner - Mix equal parts of white vinegar and borax to paste.

Oven Cleaner - Sprinkle with water and baking soda. Rub gently with a fine steel wool pad; line oven with aluminum foil.

Glass cleaner - Mix 3 tablespoons of white vinegar in 2 cups of warm water.

Air Freshener - Place baking soda or herbs in an open dish.

Rug and Upholstery Cleaner - Sprinkle cornstarch. Let sit for 5 minutes, then vacuum.