Ten Top Tips for Greener Cleaning in Marylebone

Posted on 23/06/2015

Do Eco-friendly Cleaning Products Work?

We all spend a lot of money on cleaning products, and the more we become aware of the need to protect the environment, the more we are looking for natural and environmentally friendly options for cleaning products in Marylebone.

Here are ten top tips for cleaning your entire house in the W1 area while saving the planet, and saving money while you are at it.

1.    Microfibre
We are in the midst of a microfibre revolution. A sturdy and effective cleaning material, microfibre cloths and mops can make it possible to clean the majority of, if not your entire house using nothing more than warm water.

2.    Homemade vinegar-based cleaners
Fill a jar with undiluted white vinegar, and add the peels of citrus fruits (it is your choice how many, you will find a solution that is right for you through practice). Leave the solution for up to two weeks (it will be effective enough after two days but will get more so if left for longer), and you have your very own glass and window cleaner, disinfectant and an excellent solution for mopping floors and cleaning surfaces in Marylebone, NW1.

3.    Stain removers
A quick internet search will uncover many natural ways to remove stains. Try white vinegar to clean tomato-based stains, rubbing alcohol for paint and ink, and baking soda and white vinegar for grease stains to get you started.

4.    Homemade Air Fresheners
The environmentally conscious are hesitant to use air freshener sprays; an equally effective option is to simmer a pan of water with your choice of ingredients – lemon, lime, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg are popular; try different combinations to see what is right for you.

5.    Dishwasher cleaning
The dishwasher is a vital part of the kitchen for many. Keep yours clean and ready to go by using a dishwasher safe container filled with vinegar (approximately two cups) and put the machine on a hot cycle. This will remove all the lingering odours from previous washes.

6.    Scouring Powder
For those more challenging marks and stains, very useful scouring powder can be made using baking soda, salt and borax (sodium borate). A borax substitute will be equally effective as borax can be difficult to purchase in Europe.

7.    Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a multi-purpose wonder; it works as an excellent furniture polish, glass and window cleaner, and as a carpet shampoo.

8.    Chopping boards
Chopping boards are often one of the most neglected parts of the kitchen in W1. Even after good clean stains can embed themselves into the surface. Squeeze lemon onto your chopping board, leave for ten minutes, then wipe with a slice of lemon to see those troublesome stains disappear.

9.    Deodorising
There are many places in your house from which unwanted smells can generate.
•    For garbage disposals, chop up lemon and limes and put them through the disposal.
•    For carpets, sprinkle baking soda onto them a few hours before vacuuming.
•    For garages, attics and cellars, slice an onion or two and leave in the centre of the room for a day or two.

10.    The kettle
No part of your house is more important than your kettle. To remove those stubborn limescale issues in Marylebone, make a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water, place into the kettle and boil. Remember to rinse the kettle thoroughly after use.

If you follow these ten easy steps, you will find that your wallet and your conscience feel a lot better for it. Experiment as well; many unexpected natural items can be incredibly helpful when it comes to cleaning your house.
Discuss your findings with your neighbours, everybody has tips and the more you learn, the more you save.