Those who know me know that I am a clean freak.  I love the smell of coming home to a clean house.  Sure, I have mellowed out a bit.  Since the birth of my daughter I started using more environmentally-sound products so I no longer come home to the smells of Pine Sol or Windex anymore…but I still love cleaning products. 

When I came across this ad for how to make your own cleaning products, I just HAD to share it.  I know, I’m a geek.  Whaddya want from me?  At least I can get you a killer deal on a house.

Cream Soft Scrub
Simply pur about 1/2 cup of baking soda into a bowl and add enought liquid detergent to make a texture like frosting.  Scoop the mixture onto a sponge and wash the surface.  This is the perfect recipe for cleaning the bathtub because it rinses easily and doesn’t leave grit.  NOTE: Add 1 tsp of vegetable glycerin to the mixture and store in a sealed glass jar to keep the product moist.  Otherwise just make as much as you need at a time.

Window Cleaner
1/4 – 1/2 tsp liquid detergent
3 tbsp vinegar
2 c water
empty spray bottle

Combine all ingredients into a spray bottle, shake it up a bit, and use as you would a commercial brand.  The soap in this recipe is important.  It cuts the wax residue from commercial brands you might have used in the past.

All Purpose Spray Cleaner
1/2 tsp washing soda
a dab of liquid soap
2 c hot tap water
empty spray bottle

Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake until the washing soda has dissolved.  Apply and wipe off with a sponge or rag.

Furniture Polish
1/2 tsp oil, such as olive, jojoba, or liquid wax
1/4 c vinegar or fresh lemon juice

Mix the ingredients in a glass jar.  Dab a soft rag into the solution and wipe onto wood surfaces.  Cover the glass jar and store indefinitely.

HAPPY CLEANING.