DIY Guy
06-01-2008, 06:37 PM
Did you know that most of the cleaning products people buy are really just reformulated, basic chemicals. That is not to say name brand products aren't worthwhile, after all they may smell better, be diluted to the approriate level for the task and they come with a spray bottle container.
Bottom-line, most cleaning products are made from vinegar, ammonia, bleach, alcohol, or soap. There are plenty of other cleaning chemicals, but a majority use one of these. Incidentally, DO NOT try mixing these all together to make some sort of wonder-cleaner, the result will be TOXIC.
Two other common components in cleaning products are water, and an abrasive, such as baking soda. Not all products require an abrasive, but a fine grit, like that provided by baking soda, can help to scrub messes.
So next time you have a mess to clean, you don't have to resort to trial and error with a shelf full of cleaners, use one of the five basic cleaning solutions and get the job done, on the cheap.
Important: Not every chemical is suitable for every cleaning job. For instance, chlorine bleach can damage stainless steel, vinegar can damage granite and marble and the list goes on. Once you know which chemicals are safe for use though, you can save money by buying lower-priced generic solutions.
Coming soon - AcmeHowTo.com Cleaning Guides. July 2008. Learn how to clean common stains and grime around your home. We'll tell you about which cleaners can be used with which surfaces and materials and a whole lot more.
Bottom-line, most cleaning products are made from vinegar, ammonia, bleach, alcohol, or soap. There are plenty of other cleaning chemicals, but a majority use one of these. Incidentally, DO NOT try mixing these all together to make some sort of wonder-cleaner, the result will be TOXIC.
Two other common components in cleaning products are water, and an abrasive, such as baking soda. Not all products require an abrasive, but a fine grit, like that provided by baking soda, can help to scrub messes.
So next time you have a mess to clean, you don't have to resort to trial and error with a shelf full of cleaners, use one of the five basic cleaning solutions and get the job done, on the cheap.
Important: Not every chemical is suitable for every cleaning job. For instance, chlorine bleach can damage stainless steel, vinegar can damage granite and marble and the list goes on. Once you know which chemicals are safe for use though, you can save money by buying lower-priced generic solutions.
Coming soon - AcmeHowTo.com Cleaning Guides. July 2008. Learn how to clean common stains and grime around your home. We'll tell you about which cleaners can be used with which surfaces and materials and a whole lot more.