[craftykelly]

I am finding more and more “green” cleaning methods being passed around. These are not store bought products, but rather agents commonly found around the house such as baking soda, etc. Do you find these methods as effective as their chemical counterparts? Are there certain things you wouldn’t suggest going green with?

[Izzie]

I haven't found anything that did not work just as effectively, or better, than traditional cleaners. I am a lot more comfortable having these around than the traditional cleaning projects since I have small children.

[Hypolita]

I agree with Izzie. So far, baking soda and vinegar do just as great a job and my kids aren't breathing in harmful fumes. I still keep everything out of reach, but don't worry as much that they'll find a way to get into products while I'm cleaning.

[dustbunny]

About two years ago I switched to cleaning with white vinegar exclusively, and it gets the job done. I have peace of mind that I am disinfecting with a cheaper, healthier, all-natural solution.

[SuzieQ]

Just as effective as most brands and better than many. I've been using white vinegar to clean my windows with for years and I've had so many people comment on how clean and streak-free they are.

[ditzyme]

I do find that store bought "eco" cleaning products do not work as well as others but I agree that white vinegar is great for cleaning, especially as I live in a hard water area.

[craftykelly]

Originally Posted by ditzyme

I do find that store bought "eco" cleaning products do not work as well as others but I agree that white vinegar is great for cleaning, especially as I live in a hard water area.

I have tried these as well and have always been disappointed. Baking soda and vinegar seem to be the go-to green cleaners for most things I see. I need to get into the habit of reaching into the cabinet rather than under the sink when it comes to cleaning.

[hayley]

There are so many chemicals in our environment that we can't avoid, that if I can avoid them I do. I'm very much in favor of using natural products for cleaning in the home. I even have an old Heloise's household tips book that I refer to.