Refuse Division

There are so many safe alternatives to the harsh products we use to make our homes sparkle and shine. Those harsh products are not only unsafe to inhale, but they are also potentially deadly if they get into the hands of little ones we may have at home. Each day 374 children are hospitalized for the ingestion of everyday chemical products that may be sitting around the home, in addition two children die everyday from those same products. Pets aren't even safe when it comes to household cleaners as it is unsafe for them to inhale those products as well.

 

Below are just a few of the all natural/safe products that you could use to replace the harsh chemicals you once used.

 

Toilet bowl cleaner: 

Who needs "scrubbing bubbles" when you've got baking soda and vinegar? Wet the sides of your bowl with a toilet brush. Liberally sprinkle the sides with baking soda, then splash on some vinegar. Instant foam! Scrub clean. The baking soda is also a terrific deodorizer.

 

Tile cleaner: 

All you need is a sturdy sponge, a bowl full of white vinegar, and some salt. Soak the sponge in vinegar, sprinkle with salt, and scrub away the toughest grime. Rinse clean. You can help keep soap scum at bay between cleanings by spraying your wet tile with a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water.

 

Glass and mirror cleaner: 

A spray bottle with a half-and-half mixture of vinegar and water you use to touch up tile (or any other surface) will get your mirrors spotless. Since we're paying attention to resources, use recycled paper towels to buff any streak marks. Better yet: make your own cleaning rags from discarded cotton clothing.

 

Floor cleaner: 

Use 1 cup (about 250 ml) white vinegar in 1 gallon (about 4 liters) of water. Some people add 6-12 drops of peppermint oil as a freshener.

 

Refuse Division

City of St. Louis