Spring Cleaning and Allergies: Alternatives to Chemical Cleaning Products

Here are some home recipes that use natural cleaning ingredients to reduce your exposure to chemicals that may aggravate allergies (source: The Nontoxic Home by Debra Lynn Dadd):
 
Vinegar – Mix 1 cup white vinegar & 1 cup water in a spray bottle. This solution works on dirt, soap scum and hard water deposits, and is a natural deodorizer. Vinegar can also unclog mineral deposits in showerheads. Simply set the clogged showerhead in a cup of vinegar, or attach a baggy filled with vinegar to the showerhead with a rubber-band and let it sit overnight.
 
Baking Soda – Sprinkling a small amount of baking soda on a damp sponge can do wonders on grimy drains and faucet rings. Clogged drains can benefit from a handful of baking soda and a cup of vinegar: pour the solution in the drain, then cover it tightly and allow the fizzy solution to dislodge obstructive matter. Rinse the drain with hot water to finish.
 
Lemon Juice – A homemade furniture polish is as simple as 1 cup of lemon juice and 1 cup of olive oil in a spray bottle. Simply shake well and apply to wood furniture with a clean rag.
 
Remember to wear proper cleaning gloves to protect your hands!