Category: 1

Natural Cleaning with Baking Soda & Vinegar

04/02/2012

Most companies that produce cleaning products want their own "green" version to compete. Manufacturers like "Method" have great packaging that is very appealing, but still costly. For those watching their budget, they turn to home-made remedies by using Baking Soda, Vinegar and Water. Here are some ways to concoct your own arsenal of cleaning supplies:

OVEN CLEANER
1 cup baking soda (or more, as needed)
Water
A couple squirts liquid detergent

Spray water generously on the oven bottom, then sprinkle with enough baking soda so the surface is entirely white. Spray on more water and let it sit overnight. Grime and grease will be loose by then and you can easily wipe it off (a spatula works well). Then put some soap on a damp sponge to scrub off the remaining residue.

ALL-PURPOSE SPRAY CLEANER

1/2 cup vinegar
1/4 cup baking soda (or 2 teaspoons borax)
1/2 gallon water
Store and use indefinitely. Good for removing water deposit stains in showers, bathroom chrome fixtures, windows, mirrors.

FURNITURE POLISH

For varnished wood
1/2 teaspoon oil, such as olive or jojoba
1/4 cup vinegar or lemon juice
Mix ingredients in a glass jar. If it’s closed tightly it will last indefinitely. To use, dab a soft rag into the solution and rub on wood surfaces.

For unvarnished wood
2 teaspoons each of olive oil and lemon juice

Mix and apply a small amount to a soft cotton cloth. Wring the cloth to distribute the oil evenly and wipe with broad strokes.

LIME DEPOSITS

From bathroom fixtures
Squeeze lemon juice directly onto affected areas and let sit for at least 10 minutes before wiping with a wet cloth.

METAL CLEANERS AND POLISHES

Silver: Line a pan with aluminum foil and fill with water. Add a teaspoon each of baking soda and salt. Bring to a boil and immerse silver. Polish with a soft cloth.

Brass or bronze: Mix equal parts lemon and baking soda, or equal parts vinegar and salt. Polish with a soft cloth. Rub a dab of ketchup on tough tarnish spots.

Copper: Boil a pot of water and add 1 tablespoon salt and 1 cup white vinegar. Using a cloth, apply to copper while the liquid is hot; let it cool and then wipe. For tougher jobs, sprinkle baking soda or lemon juice on a soft cloth, then wipe. Rub a dab of ketchup on tarnished spots.

Aluminum: Make a solution of equal parts cream of tartar and water. Rub with a soft cloth.

MOLD KILLERS

“Tea Tree Treasure”
2 teaspoons tea tree oil
2 cups water
Combine in a spray bottle, shake to blend and spray on mold. Do not rinse. The strong smell of tea tree oil will dissipate in a few days.

MICROWAVE OVEN CLEANER

1 part lemon juice
2 parts water
Mix the ingredients in a microwave safe mug or bowl and heat until steam fills the oven, about 10 minutes. Let it sit until the oven cools before wiping it out. The steam kills the microbes and the lemon leaves a clean fragrance.

CARPET STAINS

Use equal parts white vinegar and water.
Mix in spray bottle. Spray directly on stain and let it sit for several minutes. Then, scrub with a brush or sponge using warm soapy water.

For fresh grease spots, sprinkle corn starch onto the spot and wait 30 minutes before vacuuming.

For heavy duty stains
1/4 cup salt
1/4 cup borax
1/4 cup vinegar
Stir into a paste to rub into the stain. Let it sit for at least 3 hours and vacuum.

VINYL AND LINOLEUM FLOOR CLEANER

1 cup vinegar
A few drops baby oil
1 gallon warm water
For tough jobs add 1/4 cup borax (but use it sparingly on linoleum.)

WOOD FLOORS

Equal parts Murphy's Oil and water
Add a few drops of peppermint oil (optional)
Mix for damp mopping.

SOFT SCOURING POWDER
For stove tops, refrigerators and other surfaces that shouldn’t be scratched, apply baking soda directly with a damp sponge.

TOILET BOWL CLEANER

1/4 cup baking soda
1 cup vinegar
Pour into the basin and after about 15 minutes scrub with a brush and flush.
Use a pamas stone for those rings around the toilet.

GLASS CLEANER

2 teaspoons vinegar
1 quart warm water
Mix in a spray bottle and shake it. Use crumpled newspaper or cotton cloth to clean. Don’t clean windows if the sun is on them or if they are warm because, if you do, streaks will appear when it dries.

TUB AND TILE CLEANING
For simple cleaning, sprinkle the surface with baking soda, scrub with a damp sponge or cloth and rinse with water. For tougher jobs spray surfaces with vinegar first, and follow by scrubbing with baking soda. Avoid grout if using vinegar.

Sources include: Annie B. Bond; eartheasy.com

Read more: http://host.madison.com/lifestyles/home_and_garden/vinegar-baking-soda-key-ingredients-in-cleaning-green/article_fbff009e-5285-56b3-8526-ab71a8f5e5f0.html#ixzz1qsZa9GYC
http://www.MartaPerrone

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Efficacy, Economy and Ecology - Bon Ami

03/18/2012

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The 3 “E’s” – Efficacy, Economy and Ecology: Bon Ami - set out to develop products to meet those needs. It began with a young man who took the waste product from unused feldspar mineral and mixed it with soap to make a cleanser that polished away dirt and stains without scratching. Since 1880, they have updated their products for modern kitchen surfaces by adding corn and coconut oils to the feldspar with a dash of baking soda to help absorb odors.

Their all-purpose cleaner doesn’t have any phosphates or harmful Chlorine. It apparently leaves a film that protects glass from salt spray making it so popular on boats and seaside houses. This film also keeps mirrors from fogging up in the bathroom.

Bon Ami Liquid Cleanser has a tangerine thyme fragrance or you can purchase the Free and Clear version that contains Epsom Salts and Citric Acid. Both can be used on porcelain, chrome, glass and other fine surfaces.Their dish soap gently polishes away stuborn stains and baked-on foods (tough on greasy dishes but gentle on the skin).

Especially good for the following surfaces:
Stainless Steel
Oxidation off metal
Glass
Mirrors
Pots and Pans
Hard water stains
Soap Scum
Kitchen Tile
Grout

My husband tells me when he was a child (a few moons ago) he saw "Bon Ami" (pronounced "Bonaaamiii" in Brooklyn) under the sink everywhere in his house. I think I'm going to put it under my sink and let him reminisce his childhood.

http://www.martaperrone.com

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O Cedar Promist and Bona Mop

03/11/2012

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For the last several years, I have been a great advocate of the Bona System for cleaning hardwood floors - however there is one flaw that has now been remedied with the ProMist Mop by O Cedar. Let me first say that Bona's hardwood floor cleaning solution is by far the best. The flaw in the system is finances. The mist version of the Bona mop requires that you purchase a new filler each time. The O Cedar Promist Mop has a refillable plastic container that allows you to use any solution you prefer. If you go to store Costco and purchase the large container of Bona for $14.59 and the O Cedar Promist mop for $19.89 - you can refill the container as needed instead of paying $8.99 for the Bona refill cartridge.

Both mops have washable microfiber pads and swivel heads. I actually like the length of the ProMist Mop pad better in that it seems easier to manipulate.

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

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Farewell to Shark Steam Pocket Mop

03/08/2012

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Clearly, those infomercials got me this time. I quickly purchased the Shark Steam Pocket Mop and naturally got sucked into buying the extras for an additional $99 to the tune of $285 including tax. We are blessed and cursed with 3500SF of hardwood floors. Most recently, I have been using the Bona Mop. The feature I like the best is its handle that holds a bottle of very good cleaning solution which sprays in front while you mop away. I also like any mop that has washable micro-fiber pads. However, the reason I was attracted to the Shark Steam Pocket Mop was that it appeared as though the steam coming from the mop itself would do the job without any effort. (Pushing the Bona Mop around can be laborious even if I were 20 years younger.)

So after dinner, my husband and I proceeded to open up the box sitting at the door. There were a myriad of pieces that took a little time to figure out. As we inserted the water and plugged it in, we anxiously proceeded to try it out only to discover that everywhere we cleaned, there were streaks left behind. We set it aside, and I wanted to give it one more try before packing it up. Sure enough.....streaks...and more streaks. Mr. Bona Mop accepted my apology, and together we re-mopped the entire floor.

http:///www.MartaPerrone.com

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Wood Cabinet Cleaning Products

02/26/2012

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Cleaning kitchen cabinets can be a drag when they are made of wood. It is an effort to keep the wood looking clean while not removing the oils and distorting the quality of the wood. This weekend I made a comparison between 2 non-toxic wood cleaning products that are specifically designed to remove dust and dirt while leaving a protective shine to the wood.

Thomasville – Kitchen and Cabinet Cream is just that…a cream that claims not to have any waxes, silicones or harmful solvents that may build up. You use it with a damp cloth, rinsing the cloth frequently followed by a dry cloth used to produce a brilliant luster.

Method – with its cool packaging and scents has a product called “Wood for Good” and it comes in a handy small spray bottle with an amazing almond scent. This non-toxic cleaner is easy to use in that you simply spray and wipe clean with a soft cloth.

It is hard to say which one is best since both non-toxic products get the job done. However, being a sucker for scents, Wood for Good is probably what I will grab first.

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

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Choose the Right Mop for your Floors

02/02/2012

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I will never forget when Charles McPherson in his charming manner belted out, "...and please do not tell me that the Swiffer gets floors clean!" Right he was as I have never been a fan of that mop. Their "wetjet" system is just far too wet for any wood floor and it is simply not cost effective to have to keep buying replaceable pads. For several years, I have been an advocate of the Bona System and have given it a full page in my Household Training guide because this is the mop that has it all! Rubbermaid is vying for first position with its effort to build a better mousetrap. What is somewhat unique besides the fact it is red and grey vs the Bona blue and white - is that the attached container is made to hold any product that you may choose to create yourself or buy whereas BONA is mostly pushing their own floor cleaning products with the mop itself. The key features for both mops is that the spray mechanism shoots the right amount of fluid to clean the floor without saturating and damaging it.
In addition, having the microfiber multiple selection of washable cloths is appealing and most cost effective.
One of my clients recommended "The Ladybug" for steam cleaning carpets and floors. Will check it out and keep you posted.

Happy mopping to all!

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

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Training a Housekeeper

01/20/2012

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Part of what I do these days is to travel around the country providing training for housekeepers, household managers and nannies. Sometimes I am asked to do some private in home trainings for those sponsoring the training event. Today was one of those days when I had the opportunity to meet with a housekeeper who has been working in the same house for more than 10 years. It is a learning experience for all parties, but what I wanted to share here most of all was the issues that came up during the training:

1) Laundry Room - an issue that always seems disturbing to most clients is that housekeepers tend to forget what they left in the dryer, or forget to wash the rags or leave clothes unfolded and not ironed. If you work 5 days per week and every day is a day for laundry, then each day before you leave, the laundry room should be left immaculate and free of anything left to do. Laundry can be a daily chore especially with a large family. Students may go to school and require that their uniforms are cleaned and pressed. Laundry can pile up easily and should be attended daily. Rags used daily must be cleaned separately after the day is over.

2) Organization - while you clean, a housekeeper must organize every room, drawer and cabinet. A good way to do this is to always maintain attention to detail. which means multi-tasking when putting laundry away and cleaning a room. One thing is to clean under the sofa chairs and cushions, another is to organize the cushions and pillows properly so that they look orderly.You may need to put away silverware in a drawer, but while you there, why not make sure that everything in the drawer is neatly put away. Sometimes you may need to quickly remove everything and clean the drawer itself.

3) Cleaning Thoroughly - it is one thing to say "yes, I cleaned the counter", but it is another to actually do it properly by removing everything off the counter, cleaning from corner to corner and cleaning every accessory item individually and putting it back exactly where you found it. Always remember to use clean cloths, sponges and have others ready to dry where you have used a damp cloth. Always choose appropriate cleaning products for each surface and object.

4) Making beds - this can be a pet peeve for most employers. They want to see their beds made exactly the way they like it each and every time. A good way to be sure that you do it right each time is to take a photograph and keep it handy in your "household manual" so that you can refer to it each time. Speaking of household manuals.

5) Making a schedule - the best way to be organized with every duty that you must do in a household is to separate these functions into a daily/week/monthly and semi-annual schedule so that every aspect of the home is attended to in its own time frame so that nothing gets overlooked. Household Manuals are great for this and every home and housekeeper must have one to be efficient.

6) Keeping up with Lists - there are many lists that a household needs to stay on top of everything needed such as: cleaning products, paper goods, pantry and food items, things that have broken and need replacing, school items for the children and on and on and on. It may be the responsibility of both the housekeeper, nanny and maybe even personal assistant to maintain good lists and keep them handy. An expert list maker will also separate lists in terms of stores where you can get the best prices for each item.

7) Doing one final check before ending the workday - every housekeeper should finish the day by reviewing each room that they completed to make sure that everything is in its place and nothing is left behind such as: cleaning products that need to be put away, cleaning rags, laundry or other clothing items that need organizing, a spec of dust on the floor, a corner that may need a good wipe to complete the job, a glass or newspaper that can be put away, a mirror that might have a smudge or two still there.

http://www.MartaPerrone.com

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Are Children at Risk from Toxic Cleaning Products at Schools?

01/11/2012

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In the last several years, green cleaning products in the home have become an issue for domestic workers. Now the thought of how they might affect our children in schools is also becoming an issue.

As reported in Vermont, the Senate is scheduled to vote Tuesday on a bill (S.92) that requires manufacturers and distributors of cleaning products to only sell environmentally preferable cleaning products to schools. This bill would put schools on par with Vermont’s state buildings which have already transitioned to “green” cleaning products.

Conventional cleaning supplies can contain toxic chemicals that have been linked to asthma, cancer, and other negative health effects. These chemicals can pollute indoor air and impact the health of students and staff. “Green” cleaning products are safer and are just as effective and affordable as conventional supplies.

If approved by the Senate, it would send the legislation to the Governor’s desk for his signature and Vermont will be enforcing the use of Green Cleaning Products in conventional buildings and schools. Next? .....perhaps the households in protection of the household workers.

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Cleaning Marble

12/07/2011

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Ninety percent of the time, today counters and floors are being made of granite, marble or some other stone derivation. Marble is the most porous and therefore absorbs stains and reveals scratches easily. Here are some tips:

Dust (or on a floor - sweep) marble regularly and then use a mild liquid soap and warm water to wash it.
Never over-wet marble. Just as you would when cleaning hardwood floors, always use a damp cloth or sponge.
Always follow drying it with a soft cloth.
Never use acidic products such as vinegar or lemon juice - they will etch the marble same as solvent-based cleansers.
If you find some spots in the marble, use Borax or Baking Soda Powder and rub with a damp cloth.
There are some great commercial products such as Granite Gold that can be used on both granite and marble, or you can simply use a home remedy.

Remember to always wipe up spills immediately to avoid any seepage. Keep your marble counters and floors dusted, cleaned and buffed regularly to preserve its luster and beauty.

Http://www.martaperrone.com

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Method Lil' Bowl Blu & Bathroom Cleaner

10/24/2011

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In the past, I have been reluctant to give praises to certain "eco-friendly" products simply because so many of them look and sound good, but don't work as well.

For the past month, I have been using Kaboom by OxiClean which works wonderfully. However, I happen to pick up Method Lil' Bowl Blu (clever play on words for "Little Boy Blue" or "Blueboy" paintings).
The packaging is what really caught my eye. Their other products also have beautiful colors and designs. Using both this morning, here is my report:

Lil' Bowl Blu has a wonderful smell. Similar to Kaboom, you just squirt it and leave it in the bowl for 10 minutes so that it can work on its own. It uses lactic acid to get rid of tough stains and ring-around-the-rim. What I like best is the smell - it is "fresh" leaving a fragrant sign that the toilet is now clean.

Their Bathroom Cleaner specifically is plant-based formula and can be used in the showers, tile, fixtures, chrome and tubs. One of the things I like about this type of product is that you do not have to use water to get the surface clean. It cleaned well and removed the soap scum nicely, also leaving a lovely fresh cleaning smell.

Apparently, from the time manufactures of non-chemical cleaning products began making these formulas, there seems to be some improvements worth checking into.

http://www.martaperrone.com

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