DIY LAUNDRY STAIN STICK
1 bar Fels Naptha laundry soap (finely grated)
1/3 cup washing soda*
1/3 cup borax*
2 Tbs vinegar
4-6 Tbs water
2 Tbs Dawn dish liquid
*If you can’t find or don’t have one of these on hand, just double-up on the other.
Add all the ingredients EXCEPT the Dawn dish liquid to a saucepan and heat together over LOW until combined and mostly melted. I say “mostly melted” because no longer how long I cooked it, the soap never COMPLETELY melted. That’s why it’s important to grate the soap as finely as you can.
When the mixture starts to thicken, remove from the heat and allow to cool for a few minutes before adding the Dawn. You are going to want to work quickly because it will start to harden pretty fast.
Spoon the mixture into a plastic baggie, clip off one corner, and pipe into your empty deodorant container.
Fill about 1/2 way, then tap the container on the countertop to help it to settle, then continue to fill and tap until it is completely filled and there are no air pockets. Allow to cool completely before using.
HOW TO USE:
When you have a stain that you don’t have time to wash immediately, grab your stain stick and gently rub it on the stain. I find it helpful to get my fingers wet and rub it across the top of the stain stick before I rub it on the stain. It glides more smoothly that way.
Now throw the stained item into the hamper and forget it. Well, at least until it’s time to do the wash. :-)
Before I threw it in the washing machine I got it a little wet (just held it under the water filling the machine) and rubbed it together for a few seconds, just to get it even deeper into the stain. Then I washed as usual.
I really think the addition of the Dawn is key. It’s a key ingredient in my homemade “Shout” and I think it really helps in this recipe too!
BTW…this recipe will make more than one “stick” but I only had one empty deodorant container available. I put the extra mixture into a couple of silicone flower molds I have and will use them like this. Not as slick as the container, but they will work just fine. :-)
1 bar Fels Naptha laundry soap (finely grated)
1/3 cup washing soda*
1/3 cup borax*
2 Tbs vinegar
4-6 Tbs water
2 Tbs Dawn dish liquid
*If you can’t find or don’t have one of these on hand, just double-up on the other.
Add all the ingredients EXCEPT the Dawn dish liquid to a saucepan and heat together over LOW until combined and mostly melted. I say “mostly melted” because no longer how long I cooked it, the soap never COMPLETELY melted. That’s why it’s important to grate the soap as finely as you can.
When the mixture starts to thicken, remove from the heat and allow to cool for a few minutes before adding the Dawn. You are going to want to work quickly because it will start to harden pretty fast.
Spoon the mixture into a plastic baggie, clip off one corner, and pipe into your empty deodorant container.
Fill about 1/2 way, then tap the container on the countertop to help it to settle, then continue to fill and tap until it is completely filled and there are no air pockets. Allow to cool completely before using.
HOW TO USE:
When you have a stain that you don’t have time to wash immediately, grab your stain stick and gently rub it on the stain. I find it helpful to get my fingers wet and rub it across the top of the stain stick before I rub it on the stain. It glides more smoothly that way.
Now throw the stained item into the hamper and forget it. Well, at least until it’s time to do the wash. :-)
Before I threw it in the washing machine I got it a little wet (just held it under the water filling the machine) and rubbed it together for a few seconds, just to get it even deeper into the stain. Then I washed as usual.
I really think the addition of the Dawn is key. It’s a key ingredient in my homemade “Shout” and I think it really helps in this recipe too!
BTW…this recipe will make more than one “stick” but I only had one empty deodorant container available. I put the extra mixture into a couple of silicone flower molds I have and will use them like this. Not as slick as the container, but they will work just fine. :-)
Oxiclean
1 part baking soda
1 part hydrogen peroxide
2 parts water
Just mix it all together and spray it on carpet let sit and scrub or blot.
http://frugaltexasdiva.com/diy-carpet-stain-remover/
1 part baking soda
1 part hydrogen peroxide
2 parts water
Just mix it all together and spray it on carpet let sit and scrub or blot.
http://frugaltexasdiva.com/diy-carpet-stain-remover/
Fill an empty spray bottle with 1 part ammonia & 1 part HOT water, spray it LIBERALLY on the stain, lay the clean white towel on top of it and start ironing away!
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Homemade Carpet Shampoo
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide 3% solution (This is the strength you’ll get in the first aid section.)
1 tablespoon dish detergent
5 drops essential oil (if desired)
Directions:
Mix the ingredients well. I shake mine thoroughly in a lidded mason jar. This makes it much easier to distribute the cleaning agents into the water.
Blend this mixture with 1-1/2 quarts of hot water.
Use in carpet cleaner as directed by manufacturer.
This recipe can easily be adjusted for full-size carpet cleaners. Double or triple quantities as needed.
If you are concerned about discoloration, substitute vinegar for the hydrogen peroxide. But never combine hydrogen peroxide with vinegar.
http://naturalthrifty.com/homemade-carpet-shampoo.html
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide 3% solution (This is the strength you’ll get in the first aid section.)
1 tablespoon dish detergent
5 drops essential oil (if desired)
Directions:
Mix the ingredients well. I shake mine thoroughly in a lidded mason jar. This makes it much easier to distribute the cleaning agents into the water.
Blend this mixture with 1-1/2 quarts of hot water.
Use in carpet cleaner as directed by manufacturer.
This recipe can easily be adjusted for full-size carpet cleaners. Double or triple quantities as needed.
If you are concerned about discoloration, substitute vinegar for the hydrogen peroxide. But never combine hydrogen peroxide with vinegar.
http://naturalthrifty.com/homemade-carpet-shampoo.html
Simple Glass Cleaner
Ingredients:
Empty gallon jug
1/2 cup ammonia
16 ounces rubbing alcohol
1 teaspoon blue Dawn dishwashing liquid
Fill the gallon jug 1/2 full of water. Add the ingredients, adding the Dawn last, so it doesn’t lather too much when pouring in the other ingredients. Finish filling the jug with water until it’s full. Gently shake jug to thoroughly mix ingredients, then pour some into a spray bottle
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Ingredients:
Empty gallon jug
1/2 cup ammonia
16 ounces rubbing alcohol
1 teaspoon blue Dawn dishwashing liquid
Fill the gallon jug 1/2 full of water. Add the ingredients, adding the Dawn last, so it doesn’t lather too much when pouring in the other ingredients. Finish filling the jug with water until it’s full. Gently shake jug to thoroughly mix ingredients, then pour some into a spray bottle
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Homemade “Shout” Stain Remover
Ingredients:
2/3 cups Dawn dishwashing liquid
2/3 cups ammonia
6 Tablespoons baking soda
2 cups warm water
Mix everything together and pour into a spray bottle.
Before you go to use it, if it’s been sitting for awhile, give it a good shake. It does tend to separate a bit. But after a quick shake it’s good to go.
To use: spray on stains as you normally would. I usually let mine “soak in” for a few minutes at least. Then launder as usual.
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Ingredients:
2/3 cups Dawn dishwashing liquid
2/3 cups ammonia
6 Tablespoons baking soda
2 cups warm water
Mix everything together and pour into a spray bottle.
Before you go to use it, if it’s been sitting for awhile, give it a good shake. It does tend to separate a bit. But after a quick shake it’s good to go.
To use: spray on stains as you normally would. I usually let mine “soak in” for a few minutes at least. Then launder as usual.
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
DIY Gunk Remover
Equal parts coconut oil and baking soda makes an effective, non-toxic replacement for Goo Gone.
*** abrasive
http://www.rosybluhandmade.com/diy-gunk-remover
Equal parts coconut oil and baking soda makes an effective, non-toxic replacement for Goo Gone.
*** abrasive
http://www.rosybluhandmade.com/diy-gunk-remover
Carpet Stain Remover
Fill an empty spray bottle with 1 part ammonia & 1 part HOT water, spray it LIBERALLY on the stain, and lay a clean white towel on top of it and start ironing away!
I repeated the process maybe two more times….and the stain will disappear.
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Fill an empty spray bottle with 1 part ammonia & 1 part HOT water, spray it LIBERALLY on the stain, and lay a clean white towel on top of it and start ironing away!
I repeated the process maybe two more times….and the stain will disappear.
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
All Purpose Household Spray Cleaner
Approximately 3 cups citrus rinds (whatever you have – oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, etc.)
Approximately 2 cups distilled white vinegar
Water to dilute
Loosely pack a one quart canning jar with citrus rinds. Boil enough distilled white vinegar (about one pint) to cover the rinds and pour the hot vinegar over the rinds. Cover, and let the mixture sit for at least one month. Remove the peels, and mix 1 cup of the infused vinegar with 5 cups of water in a spray bottle. Use as you would any general household spray cleaner on countertops, glass, porcelain, appliances, etc.
www.blog.aarp.org
Approximately 3 cups citrus rinds (whatever you have – oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, etc.)
Approximately 2 cups distilled white vinegar
Water to dilute
Loosely pack a one quart canning jar with citrus rinds. Boil enough distilled white vinegar (about one pint) to cover the rinds and pour the hot vinegar over the rinds. Cover, and let the mixture sit for at least one month. Remove the peels, and mix 1 cup of the infused vinegar with 5 cups of water in a spray bottle. Use as you would any general household spray cleaner on countertops, glass, porcelain, appliances, etc.
www.blog.aarp.org
Grout Cleaner
7 cups water
1/2 cup baking soda
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup vinegar
Pour into a spray bottle and spray your floor, let it sit for a minute or two... then scrub ♥
7 cups water
1/2 cup baking soda
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup vinegar
Pour into a spray bottle and spray your floor, let it sit for a minute or two... then scrub ♥
How to Restore Stained and Yellowed Linens
Put yellowed items in a large pot of water. Add 1/4 cup salt and 1/2 cup baking soda. (Alternatively you can do this same method using an oxygen bleach.)
Bring to a boil and turn off the burner. The SECRET to cleaning linens is HOT water. Allow to soak (with occasional stirring) for as long as needed. It’s not uncommon for it to take 2 to 3 days. Some people recommend changing out the water everyday, but I didn’t. I also re-heated the water a couple of times a day to allow the HOT WATER to do its’ magic!
Continue to check the progress of the stain removal and when satisfied, drain the water and RINSE THOROUGHLY! Soap left in your linens will turn brown when ironed and will also eat away at the fibers over time…so RINSE, RINSE, and then RINSE AGAIN.
If possible, allow to dry in the sun on a flat surface. Putting them on a clothesline will damage them by stretching them out of shape. Even in winter, with a weak sun, outside drying is recommended because the dryer tends to dull linens.
My tablecloth and napkins took about 72 hours total before the yellow stains were completely gone. But it was worth the wait! They have now been restored to their former brightness and ready to be put to use come Christmas day. :-)
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Put yellowed items in a large pot of water. Add 1/4 cup salt and 1/2 cup baking soda. (Alternatively you can do this same method using an oxygen bleach.)
Bring to a boil and turn off the burner. The SECRET to cleaning linens is HOT water. Allow to soak (with occasional stirring) for as long as needed. It’s not uncommon for it to take 2 to 3 days. Some people recommend changing out the water everyday, but I didn’t. I also re-heated the water a couple of times a day to allow the HOT WATER to do its’ magic!
Continue to check the progress of the stain removal and when satisfied, drain the water and RINSE THOROUGHLY! Soap left in your linens will turn brown when ironed and will also eat away at the fibers over time…so RINSE, RINSE, and then RINSE AGAIN.
If possible, allow to dry in the sun on a flat surface. Putting them on a clothesline will damage them by stretching them out of shape. Even in winter, with a weak sun, outside drying is recommended because the dryer tends to dull linens.
My tablecloth and napkins took about 72 hours total before the yellow stains were completely gone. But it was worth the wait! They have now been restored to their former brightness and ready to be put to use come Christmas day. :-)
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Antibacterial Soft Scrub Cleanser
Ingredients:
3/4 cup baking soda (you can add a little more if it seems a little thin after it’s all mixed together.)
1/4 cup castile soap (I used Dr. Bronners Citrus Orange)
1 Tablespoon water
10-15 drops of tea tree oil
1 Tablespoon vinegar
In a medium sized bowl, combine the baking soda and castile soap. Add the water and tea tree oil and stir with a fork.
After the first 3 ingredients are well combined, SLOWLY add the vinegar. The mixture will bubble up because of the chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar.
Stir until you achieve a paste-like consistency. (I had to add a little more baking soda at this point until it was the “perfect” consistency.)
Transfer to a repurposed dish soap container (or any other container you prefer), grab your sponge and start cleaning!
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Ingredients:
3/4 cup baking soda (you can add a little more if it seems a little thin after it’s all mixed together.)
1/4 cup castile soap (I used Dr. Bronners Citrus Orange)
1 Tablespoon water
10-15 drops of tea tree oil
1 Tablespoon vinegar
In a medium sized bowl, combine the baking soda and castile soap. Add the water and tea tree oil and stir with a fork.
After the first 3 ingredients are well combined, SLOWLY add the vinegar. The mixture will bubble up because of the chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar.
Stir until you achieve a paste-like consistency. (I had to add a little more baking soda at this point until it was the “perfect” consistency.)
Transfer to a repurposed dish soap container (or any other container you prefer), grab your sponge and start cleaning!
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Clean and Shiny
Fill up nearly half of a spray bottle with vinegar.
Now add 1/4 cup lemon juice.
Fill up the majority of the remaining space in spray bottle with your soap of choice.
Shake up that bottle and soak those stubborn stains baby.
Let it sit for 30 mins…
Now, time to scrub that grime away!
Rinse and dry (and be amazed)
**Not recommended for granite
http://diyconfessions.com
Fill up nearly half of a spray bottle with vinegar.
Now add 1/4 cup lemon juice.
Fill up the majority of the remaining space in spray bottle with your soap of choice.
Shake up that bottle and soak those stubborn stains baby.
Let it sit for 30 mins…
Now, time to scrub that grime away!
Rinse and dry (and be amazed)
**Not recommended for granite
http://diyconfessions.com
Make Your Own Dish Detergent
You can save even more money by making dish soap from leftover pieces of bar soap! Just be sure to chop them into very fine pieces first.
1. Place 2 cups of soap shavings into a large bowl.
2. Add 2-3 cups of hot water and let it sit overnight to soften.
3. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth. Add more water to reach the desired consistency.
4. Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice or white vinegar to help fight grease.
5. Shake well before using.
MAKE YOUR OWN GEL AIR FRESHENERS
2 cups liquid potpourri (This can be found at Walmart in candle section)
4 individual envelopes of unflavored gelatin
2 tbsp. salt
heat-safe containers (I used my favorite container for all sorts of DIY homemade products…Mason jars!)
In a saucepan, heat 1 ½ cups of the liquid potpourri and the salt until the salt is dissolved. Then add the gelatin, and stir until thoroughly dissolved. Remove from heat. Add the remaining liquid potpourri and stir until completely combined. Pour into containers and allow to cool thoroughly.
Of course this is where I couldn’t help myself and had to get a little creative. To give them a little more of a “home decor” feel, I decided to add a little color and texture to the rather nondescript gel with a tiny bit of food color and some silk flower petals I “cannibalized” from some other silk flowers I had laying around the house. I kind of like how they turned out. :-)
Scented Water
The second batch of gel air freshener I made involved the same process, just substituting distilled water and essential oils for the liquid potpourri. Here’s where you can really personalize your air fresheners. You can change the intensity of the scent by adding more or less essential oil; start with 10 drops of oil to 2 cups of water and adjust as desired. You can also try different COMBINATIONS of oils to make a special scents.
Since I only had a couple of essential oils on hand that I wouldn’t mind using as an air freshener…I stuck with with those. I made one with Lavender, one with Lemon and one with Rosemary and Peppermint combined.
Rebecca at Foodie With Family has some suggestions for different combinations, such as Sweet Basil & Lemon, and Rosemary Orange.
If you want (but it’s not necessary) you can create a vented lid for your air fresheners by punching out several holes using an ordinary paper punch. Really. That’s all I used. It works! :-)
Since I don’t normally buy gel air fresheners, I can’t tell you how much the savings would be (maybe someone else can clue me in here!) but I’m assuming it would be considerable!
I had such a good time making these and was so happy with how they turned out….I’m thinking I might need to make more the keep on hand for little hostess gifts, etc.
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
2 cups liquid potpourri (This can be found at Walmart in candle section)
4 individual envelopes of unflavored gelatin
2 tbsp. salt
heat-safe containers (I used my favorite container for all sorts of DIY homemade products…Mason jars!)
In a saucepan, heat 1 ½ cups of the liquid potpourri and the salt until the salt is dissolved. Then add the gelatin, and stir until thoroughly dissolved. Remove from heat. Add the remaining liquid potpourri and stir until completely combined. Pour into containers and allow to cool thoroughly.
Of course this is where I couldn’t help myself and had to get a little creative. To give them a little more of a “home decor” feel, I decided to add a little color and texture to the rather nondescript gel with a tiny bit of food color and some silk flower petals I “cannibalized” from some other silk flowers I had laying around the house. I kind of like how they turned out. :-)
Scented Water
The second batch of gel air freshener I made involved the same process, just substituting distilled water and essential oils for the liquid potpourri. Here’s where you can really personalize your air fresheners. You can change the intensity of the scent by adding more or less essential oil; start with 10 drops of oil to 2 cups of water and adjust as desired. You can also try different COMBINATIONS of oils to make a special scents.
Since I only had a couple of essential oils on hand that I wouldn’t mind using as an air freshener…I stuck with with those. I made one with Lavender, one with Lemon and one with Rosemary and Peppermint combined.
Rebecca at Foodie With Family has some suggestions for different combinations, such as Sweet Basil & Lemon, and Rosemary Orange.
If you want (but it’s not necessary) you can create a vented lid for your air fresheners by punching out several holes using an ordinary paper punch. Really. That’s all I used. It works! :-)
Since I don’t normally buy gel air fresheners, I can’t tell you how much the savings would be (maybe someone else can clue me in here!) but I’m assuming it would be considerable!
I had such a good time making these and was so happy with how they turned out….I’m thinking I might need to make more the keep on hand for little hostess gifts, etc.
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Ring Around the Collar
Dove Gold Soap
Water
Dip the bar of soap into a small bowl of water and rub into stain, rub the fabric together to dissolve the stain. Launder as usual.
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Dove Gold Soap
Water
Dip the bar of soap into a small bowl of water and rub into stain, rub the fabric together to dissolve the stain. Launder as usual.
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
Washing Windows
Dawn Dish Detergent
Small Bowl or Bucket
Scrubby Pads
Absorbent Cloths
Squeegee
Place a few drops of Dawn in your container with a couple inches of water.
Dip the scrubby pad into the water and squeeze out.
Scrub the glass. The Dawn along with the scrubby gets the dirt off and does not leave a residue.
Squeegee the window, starting at the top and working down, wiping off the “blade “each
time with a cloth.
Wipe around the edges to absorb any leftover water and dirt.
Dawn Dish Detergent
Small Bowl or Bucket
Scrubby Pads
Absorbent Cloths
Squeegee
Place a few drops of Dawn in your container with a couple inches of water.
Dip the scrubby pad into the water and squeeze out.
Scrub the glass. The Dawn along with the scrubby gets the dirt off and does not leave a residue.
Squeegee the window, starting at the top and working down, wiping off the “blade “each
time with a cloth.
Wipe around the edges to absorb any leftover water and dirt.
Window Cleaner
1/2 bottle of "Jet Dry"
4 Tablespoons Alcohol
1/4 Cup Ammonia
1 handful of powdered dish-washer soap
2 Gallons of Hot Water
Squirt windows with powerful spray nozzle. Use long handled brush (we used a big sponge) to dip in solution and scrub windows thoroughly. Then just spray windows thoroughly to rinse. You will notice the windows will dry to an even shine with no wiping (true!).
1/2 bottle of "Jet Dry"
4 Tablespoons Alcohol
1/4 Cup Ammonia
1 handful of powdered dish-washer soap
2 Gallons of Hot Water
Squirt windows with powerful spray nozzle. Use long handled brush (we used a big sponge) to dip in solution and scrub windows thoroughly. Then just spray windows thoroughly to rinse. You will notice the windows will dry to an even shine with no wiping (true!).
Granite Cleaner
Clean, empty spray bottle
1/4 C. rubbing alcohol
1 C. water
About 3 drops dish detergent (I use Dawn)
Essential oil of your choosing (optional)
Measure rubbing alcohol and water, pour into spray bottle. Add dish detergent and 1-2 droppers full of essential oil (I like geranium). Shake to mix well and put to good use. You can use paper towels, but I do recommend a lint-free cloth used to dry glasses. I like the micro fiber towels.
www.onegoodthingbyjillie.com
Hairspray Remover
Lift off hairspray residue from bathroom walls. Spray a mixture of one part rubbing alcohol, two parts water, and a dash of Dawn. Works great on countertop and floor!!!
www.onegoodthingbyjillie.com
Homemade Stain Remover (Shout)
2/3 cups Dawn dishwashing liquid
2/3 cups ammonia
6 Tblsp baking soda
2 cups warm water
Mix everything together and pour into a spray bottle. I got this one at Wal-Mart for about a buck. (I actually got SEVERAL of them for the array of natural/homemade cleaners I have started using.
Before you go to use it...if it's been sitting for awhile...give it a good shake. As you can see in this picture...it does tend to separate a bit. But after a quick shake it's good to go.
To use: spray on stains as you normally would. I usually let mine "soak in" for a few minutes at least. Then launder as usual.
Stain Remover
One part Dawn dishwashing liquid mixed with two parts HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
you pour the mixture directly on the stain, and watch it disappear like MAGIC, add some baking soda for extra scrubbing
www.onegoodthingbyjillie.com
One part Dawn dishwashing liquid mixed with two parts HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
you pour the mixture directly on the stain, and watch it disappear like MAGIC, add some baking soda for extra scrubbing
www.onegoodthingbyjillie.com
Stove Glass Top Cleaner
Bowl & Hot Soapy Water
Baking Soda
A Cleaning Rag
Gloves (I didn’t use any because I thought baking soda wouldnt be harsh on my hands.. but I was wrong, so try to use gloves, you’ll thank me later)
First, you fill a bowl with hot tap water water and mix it with some dish soap. Submerge the rag in the bowl and get it wet.
Apply baking soda in a generous amount all over the affected area.
Now pull out that hot soapy rag out of the bowl and squeeze half the water out. You want it to be soggy, not sopping.
Then wait about 15 minutes…
Then swirl the rag around in circles, using the baking soda paste as a gentle scrub.
The dry up the surface and shine it up with windex. Good as new!!
Bowl & Hot Soapy Water
Baking Soda
A Cleaning Rag
Gloves (I didn’t use any because I thought baking soda wouldnt be harsh on my hands.. but I was wrong, so try to use gloves, you’ll thank me later)
First, you fill a bowl with hot tap water water and mix it with some dish soap. Submerge the rag in the bowl and get it wet.
Apply baking soda in a generous amount all over the affected area.
Now pull out that hot soapy rag out of the bowl and squeeze half the water out. You want it to be soggy, not sopping.
Then wait about 15 minutes…
Then swirl the rag around in circles, using the baking soda paste as a gentle scrub.
The dry up the surface and shine it up with windex. Good as new!!
Homemade Bleach
1 cup hydrogen perioxide
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
15 cups of water
Mix together and store in a large jug. I pour mine into a smaller bottles for convenience. Since the peroxide will oxidize and eventually loose strength it's best to use the homemade bleach within a month.
This bleach is great for cleaning bathrooms.
1 cup hydrogen perioxide
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
15 cups of water
Mix together and store in a large jug. I pour mine into a smaller bottles for convenience. Since the peroxide will oxidize and eventually loose strength it's best to use the homemade bleach within a month.
This bleach is great for cleaning bathrooms.
Clean the Microwave
Take a microwave safe bowl and fill it with water. Add a dash of vinegar. Set it in inside and turn the microwave on for 5 minutes. The water will turn to steam and the steam will soften up all the gunk. The vinegar helps to absorb the smells.
While it's cooking give the outside a quick wipe down and then go do something else for 4 more minutes until it's done. You can let the microwave sit for a few more minutes to let the steam penetrate even more if you like.
Be really careful when opening the microwave and taking the bowl out. The water will be extremely hot. Wipe down the walls with a damp cloth and remove the plate from the inside. Rinse it in the sink with hot soapy water. Put the plate back in and voila, a nice squeaky clean microwave ready for the next person to cook something and forget to cover it!
**To clean the outside of microwave, use alcohol and a soft cloth. It will look brand new.
Take a microwave safe bowl and fill it with water. Add a dash of vinegar. Set it in inside and turn the microwave on for 5 minutes. The water will turn to steam and the steam will soften up all the gunk. The vinegar helps to absorb the smells.
While it's cooking give the outside a quick wipe down and then go do something else for 4 more minutes until it's done. You can let the microwave sit for a few more minutes to let the steam penetrate even more if you like.
Be really careful when opening the microwave and taking the bowl out. The water will be extremely hot. Wipe down the walls with a damp cloth and remove the plate from the inside. Rinse it in the sink with hot soapy water. Put the plate back in and voila, a nice squeaky clean microwave ready for the next person to cook something and forget to cover it!
**To clean the outside of microwave, use alcohol and a soft cloth. It will look brand new.
Clean Your Washing Machine
Fill the washing machine up and pour in 2 cups of white vineagar. Let set for 1 hour.
Start the washing machine over again and let it run through a complete cycle.
When I drained my washing machine it still had some grime on it so I got a sponge out and scrubbed it down really well. I added straight white vinegar to my sponge and the grime came off pretty easily.
Make sure to rinse thoroughly with water after scrubbing with the vinegar because you don't want the vinegar to mix with any of the bleach in the next step!}
Fill washing machine up again and pour in 2 cups of bleach. {I only used about 1 cup} Let it soak for 1 hour.
While the washer is soaking use a couple of Q-Tips and detail all the nooks and crannies of the washer.
I even scrubbed the lid and all of the knobs! Nice and shiny again.
Restart washing machine and let it run through a complete cycle.
Now that I know how easy this is to do I'd recommend washing your washing machine at least once a year. It's the perfect thing to add to your spring cleaning list!
Fill the washing machine up and pour in 2 cups of white vineagar. Let set for 1 hour.
Start the washing machine over again and let it run through a complete cycle.
When I drained my washing machine it still had some grime on it so I got a sponge out and scrubbed it down really well. I added straight white vinegar to my sponge and the grime came off pretty easily.
Make sure to rinse thoroughly with water after scrubbing with the vinegar because you don't want the vinegar to mix with any of the bleach in the next step!}
Fill washing machine up again and pour in 2 cups of bleach. {I only used about 1 cup} Let it soak for 1 hour.
While the washer is soaking use a couple of Q-Tips and detail all the nooks and crannies of the washer.
I even scrubbed the lid and all of the knobs! Nice and shiny again.
Restart washing machine and let it run through a complete cycle.
Now that I know how easy this is to do I'd recommend washing your washing machine at least once a year. It's the perfect thing to add to your spring cleaning list!
Clean Your Dishwasher II
Lemonade Kool-Aid as Dishwasher Cleaner Clean lime deposits and iron stains inside the dishwasher by pouring a packet of lemonade Kool-Aid (the only flavor that works) into the detergent cup and running the (empty) dishwasher. The citric acid in the mix wipes out stains; you don't have to.
Lemonade Kool-Aid as Dishwasher Cleaner Clean lime deposits and iron stains inside the dishwasher by pouring a packet of lemonade Kool-Aid (the only flavor that works) into the detergent cup and running the (empty) dishwasher. The citric acid in the mix wipes out stains; you don't have to.
Tub and Shower Cleaner (AWESOME Cleaner)
12 ounces white vinegar
12 ounces liquid , blue dawn detergent
Directions:
Heat vinegar in microwave until hot and pour into squirt bottle.
Add the Dawn soap. Put the lid on and gently shake to incorporate.
You now have a powerful cleaning product that will melt soap scum and tub and shower buildup, clean sinks, appliances and just about anything.
Just spray it on, scrub, rinse and be amazed. For tough soap scum build-up, spray the mixture on and allow it to sit as long as overnight. Then, scrub and rinse.
12 ounces white vinegar
12 ounces liquid , blue dawn detergent
Directions:
Heat vinegar in microwave until hot and pour into squirt bottle.
Add the Dawn soap. Put the lid on and gently shake to incorporate.
You now have a powerful cleaning product that will melt soap scum and tub and shower buildup, clean sinks, appliances and just about anything.
Just spray it on, scrub, rinse and be amazed. For tough soap scum build-up, spray the mixture on and allow it to sit as long as overnight. Then, scrub and rinse.
Make Your Own Laundry Detergent
1 cup baking soda (You can find all of these in the Laundry Section at Walmart
1 cup 20 mule team borax
1 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
1 bar of Fels-Naptha
Grate an entire bar of Fels Naptha with a cheese grater into a bowl, then add the rest of ingredients. Combine and store in airtight container or jar.
One regular load of laundry only needs one tablespoon of this mix, so I put an old, mini coffee scoop in the jar to use for measuring.
1 cup baking soda (You can find all of these in the Laundry Section at Walmart
1 cup 20 mule team borax
1 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
1 bar of Fels-Naptha
Grate an entire bar of Fels Naptha with a cheese grater into a bowl, then add the rest of ingredients. Combine and store in airtight container or jar.
One regular load of laundry only needs one tablespoon of this mix, so I put an old, mini coffee scoop in the jar to use for measuring.
DIY Laundry Detergent
1 (4 lb 12 oz) Box of Borax- Found in the detergent aisle
1 (3 lb 7 oz) Box of Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda- Found in the detergent aisle
1 (3 lb) Container of OxyClean- Found in the detergent aisle. (This is optional but I highly recommend adding it)
2 (14.1 oz) Bars of Zote Soap- Found in the detergent aisle (we chose to do pink for the scent but the white would be just fine. You can also use Fels Naptha)
2 (2 lb) Boxes of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda- Found in the cooking aisle (You could also get 1 4 lb box, we just couldn’t find it when we went)
1-2 (55 oz) Bottle of Purex Crystals Fabric Softener- Found in the detergent aisle (This is 100% optional. Like I said, my laundry detergent must smell good and I really like soft towels)
The hardest most time consuming part is grating the cheese soap. The hubs thinks it looks like pink cheese….has anyone ever seen pink cheese? Ya didn’t think so! I’m not fortunate enough to have a food processor so I was stuck doing this with a typical hand grater. I did try a blender just for kicks and giggles….total fail! Stick to either a hand grater or food processor if you are blessed enough to have one. I should make it known that the soap dissolves just fine, even in cold water. I know that tends to be a concern but you need not worry. Oh and I would recommend using a large mixing bowl to grate into and using the fine side of the grater.
The hardest part is now over and all that’s left is to mix everything together. I used a very large bucket that I got from my Father-in-Law and took a layering approach to mix it easier. I took a small amount of each ingredient and layered it on top of each other, then I grabbed a large mixing spoon and mixed it together. I did this probably 5 times but it was so much easier than dumping all the ingredients in at once and then trying to mix it well.
This batch makes A TON! Now for probably the best part…you only need 1-2 Tablespoons per load depending on the size…I’ll give you some time to re-read that since I’m sure your in total disbelief…recover yet? That’s right, you only need 1-2 Tablespoons per load! Now here comes the stroke of genius, if you opted to put the Purex Crystals in your batch, you can scoop the detergent right into your bottle and use the cap as your measuring spoon. There are 3 lines on the side and the middle one is approximately 2 Tablespoons…genius right?
1 (4 lb 12 oz) Box of Borax- Found in the detergent aisle
1 (3 lb 7 oz) Box of Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda- Found in the detergent aisle
1 (3 lb) Container of OxyClean- Found in the detergent aisle. (This is optional but I highly recommend adding it)
2 (14.1 oz) Bars of Zote Soap- Found in the detergent aisle (we chose to do pink for the scent but the white would be just fine. You can also use Fels Naptha)
2 (2 lb) Boxes of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda- Found in the cooking aisle (You could also get 1 4 lb box, we just couldn’t find it when we went)
1-2 (55 oz) Bottle of Purex Crystals Fabric Softener- Found in the detergent aisle (This is 100% optional. Like I said, my laundry detergent must smell good and I really like soft towels)
The hardest most time consuming part is grating the cheese soap. The hubs thinks it looks like pink cheese….has anyone ever seen pink cheese? Ya didn’t think so! I’m not fortunate enough to have a food processor so I was stuck doing this with a typical hand grater. I did try a blender just for kicks and giggles….total fail! Stick to either a hand grater or food processor if you are blessed enough to have one. I should make it known that the soap dissolves just fine, even in cold water. I know that tends to be a concern but you need not worry. Oh and I would recommend using a large mixing bowl to grate into and using the fine side of the grater.
The hardest part is now over and all that’s left is to mix everything together. I used a very large bucket that I got from my Father-in-Law and took a layering approach to mix it easier. I took a small amount of each ingredient and layered it on top of each other, then I grabbed a large mixing spoon and mixed it together. I did this probably 5 times but it was so much easier than dumping all the ingredients in at once and then trying to mix it well.
This batch makes A TON! Now for probably the best part…you only need 1-2 Tablespoons per load depending on the size…I’ll give you some time to re-read that since I’m sure your in total disbelief…recover yet? That’s right, you only need 1-2 Tablespoons per load! Now here comes the stroke of genius, if you opted to put the Purex Crystals in your batch, you can scoop the detergent right into your bottle and use the cap as your measuring spoon. There are 3 lines on the side and the middle one is approximately 2 Tablespoons…genius right?
NO-GRATE HOMEMADE LAUNDRY SOAP
3 Tablespoons Borax
3 Tablespoons Washing Soda
2 Tablespoons Dawn Dish soap
Put these ingredients in a one gallon jug. Pour 4 cups boiling water into the jug. Swirl until ingredients are dissolved in the liquid. Let liquid cool. Then fill almost to the top with cold water. The bubbles will overflow out of the bottle.
I love this because you can pick an awesome scent with the Dawn dish soap. This dish soap works the best because it gets grease out.
**For a fresh scent, use about a teaspoon per load of Downy Unstopables or Lush
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
3 Tablespoons Borax
3 Tablespoons Washing Soda
2 Tablespoons Dawn Dish soap
Put these ingredients in a one gallon jug. Pour 4 cups boiling water into the jug. Swirl until ingredients are dissolved in the liquid. Let liquid cool. Then fill almost to the top with cold water. The bubbles will overflow out of the bottle.
I love this because you can pick an awesome scent with the Dawn dish soap. This dish soap works the best because it gets grease out.
**For a fresh scent, use about a teaspoon per load of Downy Unstopables or Lush
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
MIRACLE LAUNDRY WHITENING SOLUTION
HOT HOT HOT water
1 cup of laundry detergent
1 cup powdered dish washer detergent
1 cup bleach
1/2 cup borax
After filling the washing machine with HOT water….I also dumped in a large-sized pot of water I had brought to a boil on the stove. I was looking for HOT HOT HOT water.
Another thing to remember is to add the above ingredients to as small a load size as possible. You are looking for CONCENTRATED cleaning power, and the more water you have in the tub, the less concentrated it will be. Shoot for BARELY enough water to cover the article.
Let soak for as long as you can stand it! :-) I managed to stay away from it for a couple of hours. Overnight would work too.
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com
HOT HOT HOT water
1 cup of laundry detergent
1 cup powdered dish washer detergent
1 cup bleach
1/2 cup borax
After filling the washing machine with HOT water….I also dumped in a large-sized pot of water I had brought to a boil on the stove. I was looking for HOT HOT HOT water.
Another thing to remember is to add the above ingredients to as small a load size as possible. You are looking for CONCENTRATED cleaning power, and the more water you have in the tub, the less concentrated it will be. Shoot for BARELY enough water to cover the article.
Let soak for as long as you can stand it! :-) I managed to stay away from it for a couple of hours. Overnight would work too.
www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com