Suffering from LCD (Label Confusion Disorder)?  Trying to trim down your shopping time but not your bank account?  These easy do-it-yourself recipes are simple and often cheaper than store bought stuff and definitely cleaner.  Hit up your pantry and kick chemicals to the curb. 

Cleaning chemicals have caused allergic reactions and damage to nervous, reproductive and immune systems as well as birth defects.  Many modern products contain antimicrobial agents (ex. antibacterial hand soap), which kill off beneficial organisms and allow harmful bacteria to generate.  So there is such a thing as “too clean”.  The good news is most store bought brands can easily be replaced by natural ingredients already found in your cupboards – and at a much lower cost to your health and your pocketbook.  Try these methods for a healthy clean.

Biodegradable Liquid Dish Soap (highly underrated)
Just add water!
1 tsp for an 8 oz spray bottle
1 tbsp for a 16 oz spray bottle
2-3 squirts for a bucket
Combine soap and water in a glass or plastic bottle or spray bottle for easy, quick cleaning.  Great for floors, appliances, counters, and cutting through grease.

Still want it cleaner?  Don’t despair - Karen Logan, author of Clean House, Clean Planet suggests a basic vinegar rinse to finish the job: Fill a squirt bottle with equal amounts white distilled vinegar and water.  Add 15-20 drops of pure peppermint or tea tree oil.  Shake to mix.  Great for floors, walls, windows and removing soap scum.