7 Best Cleaning Products to Use Instead of Bleach
If you’ve ever used bleach to clean, you must have experienced its strong, overpowering smell. Feels like it could knock out a bear. Not to mention the skin irritation that follows if you accidentally expose yourself to it. Bleach has been a household cleaning staple for a long time, but its strong fumes and potential toxicity dissuade many people from using it.
As more and more people become aware of its negative effects, the search for effective but natural /safer alternatives grows. The good news is there are plenty of substitutes to choose from.
Several non toxic and biodegradable cleaning products can be used as replacements for bleach without compromising on the quality of cleaning. This article will discuss some of the best bleach free cleaning products for your home. If you’re preparing for budget end of lease cleaning Adelaide or looking for safer alternatives for daily maintenance, do read this piece.
1. White Vinegar
White vinegar is one of the most versatile and effective natural cleaning agents that you can find out there. Its high acidity levels help break down dirt, grime and bacteria with ease, making it the perfect alternative to use in place of bleach. Vinegar works wonders on glass surfaces, kitchen countertops and bathroom tiles; it helps in removing soap scum, disinfecting cutting boards and deodorising fabrics, too.
To use it, all you have to do is mix equal parts vinegar and water inside a spray bottle. Spray this solution directly on the surfaces, and wipe it away using a clean, preferably microfiber cloth for a lint free finish. For tougher stains, let the vinegar sit undisturbed for a few minutes before scrubbing it away, and if you’re concerned about the smell, add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture. Professional cleaners who offer quality End of lease cleaning Adelaide recommend homeowners to use vinegar as a natural cleaning agent.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda is another excellent alternative to bleach. Its gentle abrasive properties effectively remove stains, neutralise odours, and cut through grease without causing harm, making it ideal for scrubbing areas like sinks, bathtubs, ovens, and even carpets.
To create a natural cleaning paste, mix baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply this paste directly onto the stubborn stains and scrub away gently with a sponge or brush. To deodorise, sprinkle baking soda inside trash bins, on carpets, or inside shoes to absorb unwanted smells. If you pair it with vinegar, a fizzing reaction occurs that helps clear clogged drains and removes built up grime.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant and stain remover. It is particularly effective in killing bacteria, viruses and mould, making it a great option for sanitising kitchens, bathrooms and laundry. If you have a hydrogen peroxide solution with a 3% concentration level, you can use it directly on surfaces like cutting boards, toilets and sinks.
Simply pour/spray the solution on the targeted area and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean. It can also be used as a laundry booster – add half a cup of hydrogen peroxide to a load of whites to brighten the fabrics and disinfect them at the same time.
4. Castile Soap
Castile soap is a plant based biodegradable soap that can be utilised for various kinds of cleaning tasks. It’s made from natural oils like olive or coconut and is gentle but effective in cutting through grease and dirt. Castile soap is a great choice when it comes to cleaning floors, counters, dishes and can even be used as a hand wash.
To make an all purpose cleaner, mix a few tablespoons of liquid castile soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Use this to wipe down surfaces, clean bathroom fixtures, and wash dishes without leaving behind harmful residues. Most people who hire the services of skilled Bond Cleaning Adelaide prefer using castile soap due to its nontoxic and environmentally friendly composition.
5. Lemon Juice
Want a natural disinfectant and degreaser? Lemon juice to the rescue! Lemon juice is known for its natural antibacterial properties and acidic nature which help dissolve tough stains, kill germs and eliminate bad odours, replacing them with a fresh citrus smell. Lemon juice is particularly useful when trying to clean kitchen surfaces, polishing metal fixtures and freshening up garbage disposals.
To make an effective cleaner out of this, mix fresh lemon juice with water and a pinch of salt, and use this mixture to scrub cutting boards, clean microwave interiors and remove hard water stains from glass surfaces. The natural citrus scent that it leaves behind makes it a favourite among those looking for chemical free cleaning alternatives.
6. Microfiber cloths
If you don’t want to use chemicals while cleaning, get a microfiber cloth. This tool is excellent for trapping dust, dirt, allergens and the like with nothing but the power of water and its electrostatic properties. Use it to wipe down windows, mirrors, kitchen appliances and electronic screens. For best results, dampen the cloth slightly and wipe the surfaces in circular motions to trap and lift the dirt. This tool will help you get a streak free shine without the need for chemicals.
7. Oxygen Based Cleaners
Most oxygen based cleaners can be found in powdered forms and are excellent for stain removal and carrying out deep cleaning. These cleaners contain sodium percarbonate that releases oxygen when mixed together with water helping break down dirt and organic stains.
Oxygen cleaners are great for laundry, tile grout and even outdoor surfaces like patios, decks, etc. Simply dissolve the powder in warm water and apply it onto the stained areas, letting it sit there for a while before scrubbing it away or rinsing. Unlike bleach, oxygen based cleaners are nontoxic, biodegradable and safe for most surfaces.
Effective Alternatives to Bleach for a Cleaner Home
Wrapping up
Armed with the knowledge of these natural bleach alternatives and how to use them, you are all set to replace the use of bleach from your everyday household tasks and contribute to a safer, healthier home. Try these bleach alternatives yourself and feel the difference. Happy Cleaning!
