DIY Network

Cleaners and Cleansers Recipes Cleaners and Cleansers Recipes From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-134

Figure A

A cleaner is a liquid that you spray on or wipe on with a sponge. A cleanser is a mild abrasive that will remove difficult and hard-to-clean dirt from surfaces. These recipes are natural and safe for family, pets and the environment -- and they are more economical than commercial products (figure A).

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Figure B

• Washing soda and ammonia cleanser Mix together 1 gallon hot water, 1/2 cup washing soda and 1/2 cup ammonia (figure B). Always mix fresh and do not store. This is an excellent cleanser for smears and food stains on walls and hard surfaces, but do not use on wood.

• Spray cleaner Mix together in a spray bottle 2 cups warm water, 1/2 teaspoon washing soda, 1 teaspoon borax, 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon liquid dish soap. Use to clean anywhere in the house, especially the kitchen and bath. Stores indefinitely.

• Borax and baking-soda cleanser Mix together 2 cups baking soda and 1/2 cup borax. Stir and store in a labeled container. Use anywhere you'd use cleanser.

• Grease-removal cleanser Mix together 2 cups baking soda with 1/2 cup washing soda. Stir and store in a labeled container.
  

Tip: Clean up mustard messes by working glycerin into the spot and letting it set for an hour. Blot with paper towels and follow with a laundry spotter.