Green Daily

We've all been told that vinegar mixtures do a fantastic cleaning job. So why do we keep buying Windex, Clorox, and other harsh chemical cleansers? Why are we paying through the teeth to do it?

Let's pretend that it's not the flashy advertising, or the sales, or store reward points that get us; let's just say we're all really lazy and don't want to mix up solutions every time we go to clean, let alone several for different surfaces. Besides, maybe I'd rather my dorm smell like cedar than vinegar.

What if mixing your own cleansers could be fun, and sport any aroma you choose? What if you could keep a cheap selection of cleansers in handy dandy devices like (free) spray bottles, and not half to worry about mixing just because you want to do a little dusting? Let's explore, shall we?

Ask your friends and family for their used milk jugs, water jugs and spray bottles. If toxic chemicals were previously stored in them, make sure you rinse thoroughly. If toxic chemicals are currently in them, take a pass.

Many of the recipes will also require liquid dish soap; I recommend something mild and fragrance-free, like Dove soaps or certain types of Dawn (you know the commercial with the duck covered in oil).

Next, you need to determine what your green room should smell like. For fun, you can mix your own scents, or stick with something classic. Remember that when handling essential oils, you should avoid contact with the skin until it has been properly diluted.

There are several mints, citrus scents, flowery aromas, wood/earthy scents, and more, including my personal favorite, tea tree. Experiment with different combinations, or take inspiration from your favorite scents used in your shampoos.

Now, for mixing!

All Purpose cleanser
In a spray bottle, mix 1/2 tsp of sodium carbonate (washing soda), a few drops of dish soap, and a drop or two of your choice of essential oils. Fill the rest of the bottle with hot water, and shake until dissolved. After application, simply wipe off.

Window/glass cleanser
In another spray bottle, combine 1/2 tsp or less of liquid soap with 3 tablespoons of vinegar, a drop or two of essential oils, and hot water. Shake, apply, and wipe off.

For more mixtures, check out Planet Green's list, including oven cleaner and furniture polish. Tip: Save on paper towels by turning old socks, boxer shorts, etc into rags and storing them in a pillow case.