Why You Should Consider Using All-Natural Cleaners in Your Home

Some people use cleaning as a way to reduce stress and get things off their mind – an excuse to stream their favorite music and get off the couch. Others dread cleaning and are simply checking items off their to-do list. No matter which type of person you are, you should consider what cleaning products you are using and how it may impact yours, your kids’ and your pets’ health – as well as the environment and the surface you are cleaning.

When it comes to cleaning, some people aren’t aware of the true dangers of mixing chemicals. Did you know that mixing certain cleaners can cause burning, cough, shortness of breath, and even lack of consciousness?

According to the Health Resources & Services Administration, more than 90% of poisonings happen inside the home, with household cleaners and disinfectants being one of the leading causes of household poisonings.

Be informed about what chemicals in your cleaning products could cause harm. Pay particular attention to cleaners with bleach, ammonia, sodium hydroxide, and hydrochloric, nitric and phosphoric acids.

Also, consider using all-natural cleaners when possible. Here are some DIYs to make your own natural cleaners that won’t make you sick, hurt the environment, or harm your surfaces. Not only are these DIY, all-natural cleaners much better on your wallet, yet another benefit to using DIY cleaning products is that you know exactly what’s in them!

1. All-Purpose Cleaning Spray 

   for various household surfaces.

Ingredients:

2 cups water

1/2 teaspoon dish soap

Optional: A few drops of essential oil for scent (like lavender or tea tree oil)

Instructions:

Add water to a spray bottle.

Add the dish soap (and essential oil, if using).

Close the bottle and gently shake to mix.

2. Glass Cleaning Spray 

   for a streak-free clean on windows and glass surfaces.

Ingredients:

1 cup water

1 cup white vinegar

Optional: A few drops of dish soap for added cleaning

Instructions:

Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.

Add a few drops of dish soap, if desired.

Shake well before spraying and wiping surfaces with a clean cloth.

3. Baking Soda Scrub

   to use as a mild abrasive to scrub tough spots.

Ingredients:

Baking soda

Water

Optional: Lemon juice for its natural bleaching and fresh scent

Instructions:

Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.

Apply the paste to the surface, such as a sink or stovetop.

Scrub with a damp cloth or sponge, then rinse thoroughly.

Important Safety Notes:

1. Do not mix vinegar with hydrogen peroxide.
2. Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces, as it can etch and damage the material.
3. Label your DIY cleaners clearly to prevent confusion with other products.

Be careful when you’re cleaning. Don’t accidentally mix chemicals that could cause you, your kids, or your pets to be sick.

Want to be able to use these DIY natural cleaners in your very own house? Connect with a Ruoff Loan officer today to see how you can make your homeownership dreams come true.

About Ruoff Mortgage

At Ruoff Mortgage, we understand that buying a home is one of life’s biggest moments – not just as a financial decision, but a personal one. For more than 41 years, we’ve proudly helped families turn their dreams into reality. From our roots in northeast Indiana to now serving homebuyers throughout the Midwest, our focus has stayed the same: delivering exceptional service rooted in care, speed, and community. With an average 15-day clear-to-close time, our team is here to make your journey to homeownership as smooth and stress-free as possible. When you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to walk with you, every step of the way.