When it comes to cleaning the house, I think I can safely say that none of us wants it to take longer, or be more difficult than it has to be, right? While cleaning is very important for keeping our family healthy and safe, most of us probably don’t want to spend all day, everyday, on it. I think I just heard a few “amens” in the back.
An extremely imperative element in our house is to keep toxic chemicals out. (There are several reasons for this, which I’ll save for another day.) This means that I never use harsh cleaners, bleach, ammonia, or anything else that causes damage to people or pets. That being said, I NEEEEEED my house to be clean for real, though. And sanitized. And safe…all the things…yes, I realize I *might* be a little “extra” in this area, and I am ok with that. Haha.
Today, I want to show you my secret weapons. If you opened my cleaning cabinet, you might not find a large array of cleaners…probably just a few, including the LEMON-VINEGAR CLEANER, but you would find a great supply of scrubbers! All sizes! Here’s what else you would find:
- scrub brush with handle for tubs and showers
- pumice stone for stubborn mineral deposits in toilets
- paintbrush for base board dusting
- white vinegar
- washable microfiber cloths
- reusable flannel towels for wiping up minor spills (and great for saving money on paper towels!)
- lemon essential oil (for dissolving gooey sticker residue on glass and ceramic surfaces)
- baking soda
- old toothbrush (for scrubbing areas of tile grout that have been spilled on)
- magic eraser (the most chemical-laden item i use, but only with gloves)
MOM TIP: Have the kids help you scrub the tub with a generous sprinkle of baking soda, followed by a cup or two of white vinegar! (plug the tub first, so the mixture doesn’t escape down the drain too soon!) I add a few drops of lemon essential oil, or even lemon juice, for bright white tubs and a nice smell, too! They will love the chemical reaction that takes place between the baking soda and the vinegar, and it might just lead into some great science lessons, too. 
So, now you know. I use each of these items on most days. Why? Because they work! They help me clean efficiently and safely; and the best part is that the kids can help, since there are not many chemicals involved (I would recommend having them skip on the magic eraser though). I find immense joy in caring for my family by caring for our home. It is also a stress reliever for me, and we all know that’s a priceless commodity any day. I urge you, mamas, to see the work in cleaning your home as an opportunity for you to bless your family with a healthy, clean, safe environment in which to live and grow…even if they don’t notice. Even when it gets dirty again tomorrow. Even if the kids don’t help you every time. I guarantee they are still watching you. They are learning from you how to one day take care of their own family. They will say to their kids, “My mom used to always clean this way…” and you will smile, knowing your work was so much more valuable than simply scrubbing a tub.
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