Gotham Digest

Eco-friendly folks make it a point to lessen their impact on the earth's deteriorating atmosphere, but few take the time to investigate the pollution inside their own homes.  Common household cleaners not only increase the level of indoor toxicity and pollution, but expose users to harmful toxins that have been linked to new-onset asthma, as well as having a negative impact on the body's endocrine and hormonal systems. Using these cleansers on a regular basis also increases your chances of developing respiratory ailments by fifty percent. With a little time and a few spray bottles, you can have toxin-free cleansers that do the job without presenting a risk to your health.

Due to recent discoveries regarding the toxicity of plastic, opt for an aluminum spray bottle, which can be found for cheap at most beauty supply shops or local grocery stores. To create a simple, all-purpose cleaner combine one cup washing soda, a dime size portion of liquid dish soap, and one to two cups of hot water. For squeaky clean windows combine 1 part white vinegar, with 1 part warm water and clean with leftover newspaper. (Less paper towel use!) White vinegar, like many other products can handle more than finger-smudged windows, as it also cancels out sour odors and eliminates mold and bacteria. Baking soda is best known for its deodorizing abilities, but it also offers a powerful kick to dirt and grime, so shake it up with some warm water to clean-up spills and messes. If the scent of vinegar makes you cringe, pick up some lavender oil from your local natural food store. The essential oil not only smells pleasant, but has cleaning properties of its own.

If the Do-it-Yourself route doesn't appeal to you, here are a list of solid alternatives to common household cleaners: