In the world of home maintenance, the cleaning aisle at your local store can be both overwhelming and misleading. Shelves brimming with specialized cleaners for every conceivable purpose promise a spotless home but often deliver little more than a cluttered cupboard and a lighter wallet. The truth is that many of these products are unnecessary for maintaining a clean and healthy living environment.
In today’s post, we’ve partnered with experienced pros in maid service in Vancouver to identify which products you can do without. By opting for multipurpose, natural cleaning solutions you’ll not only simplify your routine but also benefit your health and reduce the environmental impact associated with producing and disposing of these chemicals.
What cleaning products should you not use?
By questioning the necessity of each cleaning product in your home, you can not only declutter your space but also embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Fewer cleaning products mean less exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, reduced plastic waste, and a smaller carbon footprint due to decreased production and transportation demands. Remember, a clean home doesn’t have to come at the cost of your well-being or the environment. 
1. Window cleaners
Standard window cleaners are often just a mixture of ammonia and water, yet they come packaged in single-use plastic bottles. A simple, effective alternative is a solution of vinegar and water, which leaves windows streak-free without harsh chemicals. Not only is this mixture safer for your health and the environment, but it’s also significantly cheaper.
2. Fabric softeners
Fabric softeners are marketed as essential for soft, static-free clothes. However, they often contain chemicals that can irritate the skin and are not recommended for use on children’s clothing or flame-resistant fabrics. Instead, consider using white vinegar in the rinse cycle; it naturally softens the fabric and reduces static without leaving behind any residue or chemical scents.
3. Disposable cleaning wipes
Disposable cleaning wipes are convenient, but they contribute to significant environmental waste. Furthermore, they can be expensive over time compared to reusable cloths or sponges that can be washed and reused. For most daily cleaning tasks, a microfiber cloth or a sponge, along with a spray bottle of homemade cleaning solution, will suffice.
4. Specialty surface cleaners
From granite countertop sprays to hardwood floor cleaners, the variety of specialty surface cleaners available can be dizzying. In most cases, a mild soap solution or a simple mixture of vinegar and water will do the job effectively and safely. These natural cleaners can handle multiple surfaces without the need for chemical additives, simplifying your cleaning routine and reducing your chemical exposure.
5. Toilet bowl cleaners
Commercial toilet bowl cleaners often contain harsh chemicals designed to tackle limescale and bacteria. However, a combination of baking soda and vinegar can achieve similar results without the risk of corrosive damage or toxic fumes. This natural cleaning method is not only effective but also safe for septic systems and less damaging to the environment.
6. Oven cleaners
Oven cleaners are some of the most toxic products in the household, containing caustic substances that can harm your skin, eyes, and respiratory system. A safer, more sustainable alternative involves using a paste of baking soda and water applied to the oven surfaces and left overnight. This method requires a bit more elbow grease but eliminates the health risks associated with commercial oven cleaners. 
Who should I call for a dependable maid service in Vancouver, WA?
Whether you need help dealing with an unkempt home, want someone to scour your house because you just can’t motivate yourself to clean on your own, or you’d like to learn more about green cleaning homemade solutions, NW Maids Portland is here to offer its expert helping hand.
Our team is vetted, insured, and trained to deliver consistency and attention to detail on each visit so feel free to drop by Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park and enjoy a picnic with your friends and family while we tackle your home. Just give us a call today and we’ll do our best to keep your living space inviting, comfortable, and clean throughout the year. Reach out to us today!
