Doe Rungert

Chemical-Free Cleaning

If you are a cancer patient or just someone concerned about the effects that chemicals in cleaning agents might have on your immune system, I have some tips for using vinegar that will save you money and protect your health. 

Fabric Softener: Add ½ to 1 cup of vinegar (you can purchase it by the gallon) to your wash during the rinse cycle.  It makes your clothes soft and the vinegar smell evaporates and leaves your clothes with a wonderfully clean smell.

Glass Cleaner: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a pump spray bottle.  This works better than the commercial alcohol-based glass cleaners.

Coffeepot Cleaner: Run one cup of vinegar through the cycle of your automatic coffee maker.  Follow it with a couple of pots of water.  This not only cleans your coffeepot, but also perks up the taste of your coffee.  And it cuts the calcium buildup on glass pots.

Removing Build-up on Linoleum Floors: Mop floors with ½ cup of vinegar per gallon of hot water.  It will remove even thick layers of buildup and the floor will look almost new.  (Not recommended for vinyl flooring.)

Removing Mildew: Wash the affected area with a solution of equal parts of vinegar and water. 

Let me know how these ideas work for you and if you have more suggestions!

- Doe Rungert