Environmentally friendly cleaners: make your own cleaning products

If we want everything to be clean, we don't have to resort to chemicals. There are many ways to protect the environment - and still achieve a good result. You can make your own cleaning products and protect the environment and your wallet at the same time.

Hände mit Gummihandschuhen putzen Küchenspüle mit Schwamm© fotolia
You can make your own cleaning products easily and in an environmentally friendly way. We'll tell you how to do it.

There are great cleaning products for all surfaces, all stains, all fabrics - with plenty of chemicals. But it can also be done naturally:

Cleaning

Special cleaning products are generally not necessary. You can make your own environmentally friendly and inexpensive cleaning products from vinegar, citric acid and washing soda. Simply dilute with warm water and use as an all-purpose cleaner. If a pipe is blocked, a suction cup often helps better than aggressive agents.

Mopping

To conserve resources, you can make your own wiping cloths as a cleaning agent, for example from an old tablecloth. Only use as much water as necessary for cleaning - you rarely need a full bucket. Cold water is sufficient for moistening sponges. Dispose of the cleaning water in the toilet, never outside.

Fragrance

It is best to avoid toilet blocks, scented sprays and air fresheners of all kinds, as they can contain harmful substances. Regular ventilation, perhaps a few flowers or herbs in the room - and you'll have a pleasant smell everywhere. Use reusable cleaning utensils instead of perfumed disposable materials.

Recipes for environmentally friendly cleaning products

Glass cleaner: A quarter cup of brandy vinegar and five drops of lemon oil are enough to get everything streak-free clean. Mix the ingredients with hot water in a half-liter spray bottle.

Disinfectant spray: Also very simple. You need a spray bottle. Add two tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 drops of tea tree oil. Fill up with half a liter of hot water and mix.

More great cleaning products to make yourself: