The word is out: DIY cleaners are one of the biggest home trends for 2015, according to Pinterest. And we’re here to help you join the trend.
Not only can DIY cleaners be more cost effective, but they are also free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) frequently found in traditional cleaning products.
"VOCs can cause shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing in healthy children and adults," said Dr. Rachel Taliercio, pulmonologist with Cleveland Clinic Asthma Center. "These symptoms are worse for people with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma.”
To save cash and protect your health, try this DIY laundry soap from cleaning expert Leslie Reichert, author of “The Joy of Green Cleaning.” It takes four ingredients and only costs cents per use!
DIY laundry soap
Ingredients:
- 2 cups soap flakes
- 1 cup baking soda or soda crystals
- 1 cup borax powder
- 1 cup washing soda, not baking soda
Instructions:
Soap flakes are available online, but it’s easy to make your own. Simply grate a bar of soap on the large-hole side of a grater or cut into chunks and grate in a food processor.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Place in a plastic or glass container with a lid. This soap works best with hot water.
For top-loading washing machines, use ½ to 1 cup or 2 cups for very heavily soiled clothing.
For front-loading and high-efficiency machines, use 2 tablespoons.