USU Extension’s Family and Consumer Science Educator Teresa Hunsaker looks at ideas for tubs, tile, toilets and carpets.
Tub, Tile, and Toilet
Mold in bathroom tile grout is a common problem and can be a health concern.
BASIC TILE SPRAY
1 cup hydrogen peroxide (3%)
2 cups water
Combine in a spray bottle and spray on areas with mold. Wait at least one hour before rinsing or using shower.
DAILY SHOWER SPRAY
1/3 cup rubbing alcohol
1 cup water
Mix in a spray bottle and shake. Spray on, no rinsing required.
TILE AND GROUT CLEANER
1/2 cup of baking soda
1/3 cup of ammonia
1/4 cup of white vinegar
7 cups of water
Combine all the ingredients in a labeled spray bottle and shake well to mix. Spray on then wipe off with a damp sponge. Do not use with bleach with this mixture!!
1 cup vinegar
1/2 cup baking soda
Pour the vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let sit 30 minutes. Use a toilet brush and dip it into the toilet. Take it out, and sprinkle some baking soda onto the brush. Scour the inside of the toilet with the brush repeating the sprinkle procedure until the baking soda is gone…..voila! Clean toilet! This does not take the place of a disinfectant, so if you feel better spraying with a disinfectant after polishing the bowl, feel free.
Carpet Cleaners
MAGIC SPRAY CLEANER (for surfaces other than varnish, aluminum or asphalt tile)
1/4 cup ammonia
1/8 cup vinegar
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 quart water.
Pour into spray bottle and spot treat carpet stains by gently rubbing with a clean rag. Rinse with water after treatment. Allow to dry.
RUG SHAMPOO MIX
1/4 cup mild detergent or soap
1 pint of warm water
2 tablespoons vinegar
Whip into a stiff foam. First, vacuum the rug thoroughly. Apply the foam and scrub. Let dry, then vacuum again.
HEAVY DUTY CARPET CARE
Mix 1/4 cup each of salt, borax and vinegar. Rub paste into carpet and leave for a few hours. Vacuum.
Resources:
USU Extension Housing Specialist—Dr. Leona K. Hawkes(retired)
Keep It Cheap www.keepitcheap.com
Mrs. Clean www.mrscleannw.com
NaturoDoc www.naturodoc.com
Earth Easy www.eartheasy.com
If you have other questions about homemade household cleaners or other household problems, visit www.extension.usu.edu or call (801) 399-8200
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