On today’s podcast episode, I will discuss how to spring clean your homestead in a safe and non-toxic way that will make your homestead a healthier place. Not only is Spring a time to get started with our gardens it’s also the time we think about giving our home a deep cleaning after a season of being closed up.
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Spring is here, and with it comes that familiar urge to give your homestead a good, deep clean. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered, “How can I clean without using harmful chemicals?”
Today, I’m sharing how you can freshen up your space with safe, non-toxic alternatives. Let’s dive into some simple, natural spring-cleaning tips that anyone can use!
1. Why Clean Naturally?
Over the years, I’ve become more aware of how harmful certain cleaning products can be. Many of the commercial cleaning products we use every day are filled with harsh chemicals that we inhale, touch, and even consume without realizing it. After some health challenges, I decided to make a change.
Now, I aim for safer, non-toxic options that leave my home clean without the risk of exposure to dangerous substances. Trust me, it’s easy, and your home will smell and feel fresh!
2. Lemon Juice: Nature’s Antibacterial Power
One of my favorite natural cleaners is lemon juice. It’s full of acid, which makes it great for cutting through grease, cleaning countertops, and even sanitizing cutting boards. Plus, the fresh lemon scent is way better than any artificial cleaner.
- How to Use: Wipe down tables and countertops with a mix of lemon juice and water. You can even toss half a lemon in your microwave, run it for a minute, and easily wipe away grime after.
3. Baking Soda: A Scrubbing Superstar
Baking soda is another gem in the natural cleaning world. It’s slightly abrasive, so it helps scrub away tough dirt, and it also absorbs odors. You can use it all over your homestead—on bathroom tiles, in your fridge, or even to freshen up carpets.
- Pro Tip: Sprinkle some baking soda on your carpets before vacuuming to lift away odors. Or, mix it with water to create a paste that works wonders on stubborn stains in the kitchen or bathroom.
4. Vinegar: The All-Purpose Cleaner
Vinegar is a miracle worker in the cleaning world. It’s a natural disinfectant and works great for windows, floors, and even shower doors. The smell may be strong at first, but it fades quickly. And if you’re like my wife, who doesn’t love the smell of vinegar, you can add some lemon or orange peels to it for a fresher scent.
- How to Use: Mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle (50/50) and use it to clean windows or wipe down surfaces. For an extra cleaning boost, mix vinegar with baking soda and watch it foam—perfect for tough jobs like cleaning your grill or oven racks!
5. Olive Oil: Shine Up Your Furniture
You may not think of olive oil as a cleaner, but it’s great for polishing wood furniture. It’s a natural alternative to commercial furniture polish, and it leaves your wood with a beautiful shine.
- How to Use: Just a few drops of olive oil on a cloth can wipe down wooden furniture, leaving it gleaming. You can also use it on leather and stainless steel to bring out their natural luster.
6. Cleaning with Salt for Extra Scrub Power
Salt is an awesome, natural abrasive. It’s perfect for when you need something with a little more scrubbing power, but you don’t want to use harsh chemicals.
- How to Use: Combine salt with lemon juice to scrub cutting boards or sinks. It helps lift stains while being gentle on surfaces. You can also use it with olive oil to polish up metal or clean cast iron pans.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide: A Mold Fighter
Hydrogen peroxide is a great disinfectant and works well to kill mold and mildew. It’s safe, cheap, and effective on bathroom surfaces like tubs and tiles.
- How to Use: Mix it with water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas with mold. Let it sit for a bit before scrubbing, and you’ll be amazed at how well it works.
8. Tools of the Trade: What to Keep Handy
When switching to natural cleaners, you don’t need a lot of fancy tools. Just keep these essentials on hand:
- Microfiber cloths for dusting and cleaning surfaces
- Reusable mops or brooms for floors
- Spray bottles for mixing up your natural cleaners
- Compressed air duster for electronics or hard-to-reach spots
By using natural ingredients and a few trusty tools, you can keep your homestead clean, safe, and chemical-free!
9. Spring Cleaning Isn’t Just About Your House
Spring cleaning is also a time to prepare your outdoor spaces for the new season. This year, I’ve been busy getting my raised beds ready, planting early, and adding companion plants like marigolds to help deter pests naturally. Even a small homestead can benefit from companion planting, and it makes everything look beautiful, too!
10. Final Thoughts: Healthier Home, Happier You
Switching to natural cleaning products has been a game-changer for me and my homestead. Not only do I feel better knowing that I’m avoiding harmful chemicals, but I also love how fresh and clean my home feels after using simple, natural ingredients. Plus, it’s budget-friendly!
I hope these tips inspire you to give natural cleaning a try. It’s easy, safe, and effective. So grab that lemon, baking soda, or vinegar and get to work!
