27 Feb Homemade Powder Cleaner

You don’t want to eat this.

I grew up with Comet, that nasty, abrasive cleanser which was used to clean kitchens and bathrooms. It’s funny how we associate clean with certain smells. I spoke with the director of operations of a large recreational facility, and he told me that clients complained that the facility didn’t “smell” clean enough when they switched to less toxic, more natural cleaners. Unfortunately, they switched back. He said “just give ’em Pinesol and everybody’s happy.” A quick search of the data base Environmental Working Group revealed some sobering news about many household cleaners. It turns out that Comet contains over 146 air contaminants, including beauties such as formaldehyde, benzene, chloroform and other known carcinogens and reproductive toxins. Hmmmm…how badly do I want that “clean” smell?

I’ve really been trying to “clean” up my cleaning products while still enjoying that nice fresh scent. Thanks to various websites such as DIY, it’s quite easy to find simple recipes for making your own cleaning products. Not only are they non-toxic, but they’re incredibly inexpensive.

I experimented with a recipe for a powdered cleaner (a non-Comet kind of Comet) and am very happy with the result. It took only minutes to make and did a great job cleaning the bathroom. I used our very own Savon Du Bois soap and made a significant amount of product for about $2.00. Take that, Mr. Clean!

“Clean” Powdered Cleaner

1/2 cup grated soap – I used Savon Du Bois Sea Buckthorn Soap (which was less than a 1/4 of the bar)
1 1/2 cups baking soda
15 – 20 drops essential oil (I used orange essential oil, but lemongrass, lavender, mint, tea-tree would all be good)

Combine above in food processor and blend until well incorporated. Store in glass jar or re-use a shaker jar (Parmesan cheese, etc.).

Use as you would with any powdered cleaner, rinsing after use. It does the trick without burning your lungs or making your eyes water!