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Today’s Discussion: SPRING CLEANING & ORGANIZING
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Today’s Discussions:
- Recommend natural, organic, eco-friendly non-toxic CLEANING Products
Give us links to the products, so we could check them out
- Do you clean clothes Before you put it away into storage?
- What are the best sites, if any, to find out cleaning tips for any occasion?
- Would you switch to non-toxic cleaning brands even if they cost a bit more?
good luck
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Hello Good Morning and Happy St. Patricks Day! Have a GREEN day!
Top of a he mornin to ya.
Good Morning
Good morning everyone. It snowed overnight here. Not sure the state and county expected the snow totals we received.. Yup, weather men got it wrong, again.
No snow here thank goodness! In fact, most of the old has melted and I saw my daffodils peeking through the soil! YEAH!
Good Morning and Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all. 🙂
Good morning all happy st patty’s day!
HELLO and Good Morning All!
Good morning everyone!! Happy St Patrick’s Day!
Good morning!! This crazy weather has got me and my kids sick wish spring would get here!
Hope y’all feel better soon!
Thanks Linda we shall survive this lol
Totally feel y I u on that. Today is high 38 tomorrow high 52 then back down to 42. Ugh, so tired of this!
Lovely Morning, I hope everyone has a Beautiful Monday Morning and a great Happy St. Patrick’s Day Go Green!!!!
Morning to all, Happy St Patty’s Day.
good morning all hope all is well Happy ST Pattys day to you all
Hello everyone!
Good morning ladies. Very happy to be here again!
Good morning and Happy St. Patrick’s day
Hello – New fan here. I heard about your char from Kelsey Staples. Then I see this cleaning topic… lol.. right in time for spring cleaning… Nice.
welcome Sharon
Hi Sharon
Good Moring, I think, I woke up to 8 inches of snow on the ground.
Good morning all, I’m running late. Busy busy day.
Great Morning to everyone Hope you all have a Great St Patricks Day and get to spend dinner with the Family 🙂
So much for AM Glad to be here!!
AM COFFEE #1
Recommend natural, organic, eco-friendly non-toxic CLEANING Products
Give us links to the products, so we could check them out
anything natural and eco friendly is really starting to be the way to go!
I love Seventh Generation products. I received a sample in the mail and it cleaned as well, if not better, than other products I have used. Plus, it is environmentally friendly as is all of the Seventh Generation products!
WINDOW CLEANER
1/4-1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent
3 tablespoons vinegar
2 cups water
Spray bottle
Put all the ingredients into a spray bottle, shake it up a bit, and use as you would a commercial brand. The soap in this recipe is important. It cuts the wax residue from the commercial brands you might have used in the past.
Read more:
Love Dr.Doormat they have wonderful products and amazing tips and information on their site!
Haven’t heard of this one. I’ll check it out. Thank you!
I just recently started this I have not tried a lot of products yet except for seventh generation dishwashing detergent, its a great product it is safe smells great and cleans better than any detergent I have used! It is a little most expensive but u can’t put a price on a healthy family! Also use use other househould products to clean such as baking soda, lemon, borax, and corn starch.
all natural for me vinager baking soda dish soap works great and the book Queen of clean is a great book
I use vinegar for most of all my cleaning as well.
I love Seventh Generation!
Vinegar and baking soda are so cheap and they are fantastic when it comes to cleaning! I put baking soda in with my shampoo every once in a while to remove the hair spray build up. My hairdresser gave me that tip and it works wonderfully!
I really like Seventh Generation, smells clean and works great!
I make my own laundry detergent and use the wool dryer balls
I use both it would be the cheaper of the two and if I have coupon to match up on them. Sorry to say that but I have 11 people in my house at the moment and it is very expensive to clean up after everyone.
I try to use some ecofriendly products. I have used some that are labeled to be that way – the Green Works, I think was the name. I like to use vinegar to clean mirrors and windows. I think it smells just awful… lol.. but it cuts through grease and it isn’t as bad on leaving streaks as commercial cleaners. I wash the outside with vertical swipes, the inside with horizontal swipes – then if I see a streak I know which side of the window it is on.
Sharon, use citrus peels in the vinegar and it will help with the smell, it’s great! As an extra plus, citrus cuts grease and dirt as well. I do the same thing with windows to be able to tell which side a streak is on! It’s a fantastic tip!
http://lifehackery.com/2008/07/22/home-4/
The above site has 75 uses for a common item we all have in our homes – baking soda. I always have some (many boxes) on hand. It has so many uses, it is readily available and cheap. It is a hard little worker for the money.
I use vinegar for just about everything except my floors. I just learned from I m a chat here to add orange peels to make it smell better. I use the oranges I just bought let them dry for two days and added it to the vinegar. Yesterday my husband used it and stated it smelled wonderful. For my floors I use a tiny bit of Dawn in water.
So glad the orange and vinegar worked out for you Elicia!! Yayyy!
Ah, Raye was really trying to figure out who told me that. Thank you so much. I actually have a bowl of dried peels on my counter. I think I am going to boil some as well for a freshener.
Elicia, I’ll have to look up my air fresherner jars recipe and send you the recipe for that. It uses peels and pieces of pine branches, it’s fantastic. You can make them up and freeze them and then just toss the ingredients when they’re done. I love them, they look pretty and smell great, and I don’t worry about tossing them outside, no chemicals.
I have some others that last longer and I’ll find those as well.
Thank you for the great tip!
I don’t think I.ve tried any eco friendly cleaning products.
Use a lot of vinegar and baking soda
I make my own cleaners and laundry soap. I really don’t know what products are in the stores.
My favorite are Norwex products. I’ve been using them for several years and am very happy with them!
While it’s not an actual cleaner, one of my favorite things to be eco friendly is to do away with paper towels, and use old rags or microfiber cloths to clean with. Fly Lady has fantastic microfiber cloths. They’re a little pricey but they are fantastic and last for ages.
AM COFFEE #2
Do you clean clothes Before you put it away into storage?
Do you use those vacuum storage bags? If Yes, do they work for you?
no vacuums bags and yes i always wash before storing! dont want a yucky smell come winter
i also put a fabric softener sheet in with them in the tubs
I don’t use storage bags but do clean the items before storing and afterwards for a fresh smell
I have tried those vacuum storage bags when they first came out, but I didn’t think they worked very well. Maybe they have improved. I don’t usually wash all my clothes at the end of the season. For my hanging clothes, if I wear them once and they aren’t “dirty”, I rehang them, but put the clothes hanger on the rod backwards. This way I know that I have worn them at least once. Those are the ones I will launder at the end of season.
That is a good idea!
Thanks! I do come up with a few once in a while! LOL
The clothes that are making their way to storage are usually still sitting in the dresser, so they are already clean. But obviously I would wash the ones sitting in the hamper. That’s like cross contamination of food
yuck. I haven’t tried those storage bags, but would really like to know someone who has. We have so many comforters to store during the winter. They take up so much room in storage bin/closet.
I used the vacuum storage bags when I was moving into/out of college. They were a huge help during that time. I still use some occasionally. I always clean before storing. I also throw in a dryer sheet or two to keep away that plastic smell.
I have never tried the storage bags yet. I do however wash everything before I store my seasonal clothes in storage totes. For those of you who have tried them please let us know how well they work, how cost effective they are, and if you recommend them. Thank you.
I do clean clothes before putting them away and I do use the vacuum bags. Vacuum bags do work for me because the clothes still smell fresh when I open them. I really started using them when I opened a box and there was a spider in with clothes. Don”t have that problem none. 🙂
Yea, spiders in my box of clothes would freak me out too. Since you still use the bags, I think I may try them for my blankets and the kids clothes.
I use them for bedding too.
Yes I do, I feel funny if I don’t.
I do not like vacuum storage bags I fing them kind of a hassle. I do however wash the clothes I store. I usually wash them and put them in a plastic bin. You never know who might need them a family member or friend or someone in need and I don’t want to wash them after I get them out of storage because I usually don’t have time
Same here. This past winter I had to get my swimsuit out of storage would have never been able to get it easily if it was in a bag.
I do try to, can’t stand to put them away dirty.
I have never tried the vacc bags but when I put my stuff away I put it away clean but you still have to wash it when u take it out I see some great ideals her will have to try some thanks
Only wash whats needed. Never tried the vacuum bags
I can’t see washing everything at the end of the season if I haven’t worn them. Too much work and more stressful on my clothes. And I never pack anything away in storage. I leave everything where they are. Sometimes between seasons the weather goes from hot to cold to hot again and I can always find something to wear.
Yes, I always clean my clothes before storing them. I also clean them when I take them out of storage. I just seems right 🙂 I’ve seen those vacuum storage bags and they look really great. I would love to try them out sometime. Looks like they would save a ton of space.
I got the storage bags for my comforter and a large body pillow. A couple months later after putting it up in storage I noticed that the bags were not deflated anymore.
That’s what happened with mine Elicia, but I’ve had friends who use them and say they work great. I think they’ve improved over the years, and I’m wondering if brand makes a difference.
I do have a vaccum that does require bags and I hate it. I have been asking my husband for a new one for the Holidays, but he said he won’t buy me anything that has to do with my working LOL.
Yes, I clean seasonal clothes before putting them away. For storage purposes I have to put some things in the vacuum seal bags to put in overhead ceiling storage. But I have 2 decorative trunks/ benches in 2 bedrooms that I can store off season clothes in. They are at foot of beds and serve as storage, décor and a sitting spot. I put a few fabric softeners sheets in there, to keep them smelling fresher.
Yes, I put my clean clothes in storage. I use tubs to store my clothes. I usually switch out my summer and winter clothes between the tubs. I also place a dryer sheet in the tubs so my clothes do not have a musty smell.
I have never used the storage bags, I use rubbermaid plastic tubs and they work great but I also have room for them.
I do clean them before I put them away, and I drop in a few cedar chips to store them.
I’ve tried the vacuum bags and not had success for long term storage (an entire season). They did work fine for short term when using them in suitcases for a trip.
No Vacuum bags used here. I usually wash and fold clothing and items before storing. I also try to donate as mych as possible to the Goodwill around the corner from me, we have alot of homeless here in my town so I also try to find folks around to give them old jackets and things to keep them warm 🙂
Always clean clothes before packing away and stuff some scented dry sheets in as well
AM COFFEE #3
• What are the best sites, if any, to find out cleaning tips for any occasion?
Dr. Doormat has amazing ideas and great articles daily on their website and Facebook page i love her products i have 3 of her rugs!
I like Dr. Doormat, I have one of their mats and I really like it!
has some great cleaning tips. And most of them are as the name implies … simple!
I to am a huge fan of Dr. Doormats products and her blog page she has wonderful tips. I also found some awesome Tips on Purex Pintrest page for removing stains.
I will usually Google things if I have a question on cleaning something. Even when the dogs got sprayed by a skunk.
Molly Maid is a good one.
I to google when I need cleaning tips but I have been in the cleaning business for years now so I have some of my own that I do regulary but I have to say I will try that MR Doormats thanks for sharing that
I also use google or pintrest
I actually don’t have a site I go to for hints. They all come from my wonderful Daughter.
I’m not sure but I love when I do run across natural cleaning tips and “recipes” on blogs. I always love learning about homemade cleaners and natural, green cleaning. I got a kit a couple years ago and I still use it now. I really love the Norwex cloths. I have one that has silver in it (which is suppose to be a natural sanitizer?) and I use it all the time. It works so well. I also have one of their dusting hand mitts which is a great item to own!
I agree with you Jennifer, the blogs are a fantastic source of cleaning tips and helpful hints.
http://www.stain-removal-101.com/earth-friendly-cleaning-products.html
The above site has a lot of tips – and it has reviews on Earth friendly products ( Method, Seventh Generation, others) – so you can see (before you buy) what others are saying.
I get a lot of great ideas from my Facebook feed. I also got some great recipes there too!
Facebook has some great pages for that! I made a whole new page feed for those and one or recipe pages.
I don’t go to any particular website, if I am having a problem I usually google it
I just use Google if I have a quick question. My mom gave me a great book that has a lot of great cleaning tips. Which reminds me she borrowed it and did not give it back.
Pinterest is my go to site.
Clorox always has great tips!
AM COFFEE #4
Would you switch to non-toxic cleaning brands even if they cost a bit more?
yes i am really starting to change my way of thinking due to all the chemicals that are in these cleaners and such its not good for us or our environment if only we could have started this eco thing a lot sooner
I honestly like the cleaning brands/products I use now. I would try an eco brand, but I’m a mom who is looking to save money. So, if times are tight, and I don’t have coupons, I’m going with my usual choice.
sheNna,
What BRANDS do you like, those that are eco-friendly?
My favorite is Green Works. I use my their brand for so much.
I like Green Works products as well. I have a few of their cleaning products.
Before I started making my own products, I used Green Works. They did a good job and I liked that they didn’t have the harsh chemicals.
Yes because I have furbabies that are all over the place…gotta keep them safe. My two legged babies are grown and don’t care what I use as long as they don’t have to do it….lol
Yes, I have already started doing that.
I absolutely Love @Dr,Doormat They have a new Cleaning Spray that works wonders. For those of you who have a BJ’S they also carry her products their.
Since it’s just my boyfriend and I we don’t really care. But once we have others in the house to worry about I’m pretty sure we would switch over. Sometimes now we’ll use safer ones like Green Works when they’re on sale or we have a coupon.
No I would just make non-toxic cleaners because they usually work just as good as expensive ones.
I usually make my own but yes I would on certain cleaning projects.
Yes I switched even though they cost more, you can definitely tell the difference and it is well worth the extra bucks. I want to keep my family healthy and at the same time the environment is thanking me.
yes if they work I sure would but its not all about cost its how well the product does that’s what I look for
I would only if it was on sale and if I had a coupon to use. I have to be very money minded and careful.
I might switch to them, if the cost was not significantly higher. Some of those companies are getting better at offering coupons, so that does help. But I don’t want to spend twice as much for a cleaner.
Yes, but using natural items are great and cheaper
Probably not because I am always watching my pennies
Yes I use alot of them as much as possible I have a new Grandson here with me so have to make it safe as possible for him 🙂
Yes, with kids in the house, I think it’s very important to have non-toxic cleaners. Of course, I would prefer they cost less but I would pay the extra. 🙂
I will keep my best proven cleaners
AM COFFEE #5
• Would you consider yourself an Expert who could share with our audience her cleaning tricks and tips?
• If YES, would you like to become a reagular contributor to this weekly topic on Celebrate?
i wish i was that good but i think you could find some women who have the expertise more than I! But always willing to learn!
I wish I was a cleaning expert. However, I keep Huggies baby wipes in stock at home and in the car. Hide things work wonders for cleaning up stains.
*those things*
Baby wipes are awesome for those times we need something quick to grab to wipe up. We don’t have kids at home, and I still have them here most of the time. Since hubby was hospitalized so many times this past year, they sent us home with lots of packages of their brand. I’d love to find those somewhere, they’re a bit larger than the ones I find in the stores, but not quite as thick. I love them, I may cry when we run out lol.
I don’t consider myself an expert by any means. I wish I were. But when I have an issue I need to address, I turn to the internet for advice. As far as being a regular contributor, I don’t think I could do your column justice. Sorry!
Not an expert by any means but I do love and recommend using vinegar in most cleaning situations. It cleans and deordorizes without being harmful.
I wouldn’t consider myself an expert at all. I think I’m good at cleaning but I don’t have any of my own tricks or anything. When I see something online I try it out once or twice to see if I like it. If I do, I add it to my routine.
I really don’t consider myself as a cleaning expert, I’m just a mom…lol
I don’t consider myself an expert in anything so I don’t think I could but Love the idea of the conversations every week. 🙂
Well I have cleaned now for around 35 years! Not an expert but know how I like doing things.
For an all purpose cleanerfor an all purpose cleaner mix 1/2 vinegar and 1/4 baking soda or corn starch great in kitchen and bathroom and on windows, for an air freshener just put lemon and baking soda or lemon juice and vinegar in small bowls in each room. And for mold use peroxide works great just mix a little with water spray let set them rinse after about an hour. I’m looking now for great carpet cleaners my carpet is horrible lol
Michelle,
Use baking soda and sprinkle it on your carpet it will act as a deodorizer.
1/4 cup borax, 1/4 cup salt, 1/4 cup white vinegar. Mix well and rub into carpets. Let it sit til it dries, then vacuum it up. It will even take out coffee stains that I thought were permanent.
If you have a really tough stain that doesn’t come up, add 2 or 3 drops of dawn dishwashing detergent to the mix, Rub that on it, let it sit for a couple of hours and then dab (don’t rub) with a clean cloth. It works great.
Oh and test a small spot on the carpet to make sure it’s colorfast, but hydrogen peroxide is great for most carpet stains as well.
I would not say I am an expert at all. If i need any tips I have my Daughter to ask or I find a way to do it myself. Sometimes it works and others it does not. But I have to say I love using the Swiffer wet pads to wipe off my car rugs and for a white chair that gets a lot of stains on them and it does a great job. Baby dreft is also one of my go to’s for other stains.
No really and expert, but willing to contribute
Not an expert but definitely know a thing or two. I do have a lot of tips….I like to read
Not an expert at anything lol But I try
No, I am definitely not an expert but always looking to learn new things!
Forgot. Yes I would become ok me a regular
Forgot. Yes I would become ok me a regular
I’m not an expert cleaner, but I do think I’m an expert collector of cleaning and DIY tips lol.
I have a shelf of books and notebooks that are mostly very old, and a lot of pins on cleaning tips and diy products, as well as home made beauty products. I love this stuff!
I absolutely love that towel holder…..could use it! Amazing prize!
I agree …the towel rack is very pretty and think it is a wonderful prize! I want it….lol
Good Morning Everyone Happy St.Patrick,s Day As We Drink Our Coffee & Start Our Day The Best To Everyone & Thanks
I’m no expert just learning as I go on. And very thankful for all the tips.
Awesome!
“Hello” Top O’ The Morning to you!! “Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!!!!
Good morning and Happy St. Patrick’s Day to everyone. Coffee is ready.
Good Morning Everyone just getting started on my Day Have A great St. Patricks Day
I heard a tip to remove a grease stain the other day haven’t tried it yet if you get grease on clothes run baby powder on stain before washing
That would probably work because it sounds like it would lift it out. I will have to try that one. TY
Going to have to try this is it for cooking grease or car grease because both are problems in this house!
A great way to get permanent marker out of clothes is rubbing alcohol. Blot with until it disappears.
The baby powder does work. You can also use baking soda, starch, or chalk (I know that sounds odd, but I’ve done it and it works). Hubby was what I call a ‘piddler’. He was always piddling around with motors and gadgets, as well as doing taxidermy, so I had a lot of greasy ‘mystery stains’.
Good Morning to everyone, joining me today is my best morning friend, cofee! :).. Happy St. Patricks Day to all.
good morning every one I hope you guys have a good day
I have many years with cleaning but I am no expert but it would be nice to just share our own personal things that we do to clean I to love that towel holder
I’m not a cleaning expert!
Good Morning & Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
I love eco-friendly products.
Yes, they’re a bit more expensive. But I made my decision about 15 years ago to convert my lifestyle into all things ECO and Non-toxic to our bodies and the Environment.
Some of my most favorite Cleaning Products is Grab Green. I use their detergents and dish soaps all the time!
They’re portable and developed for not just eco-homes, but for students, travelers and disabled people.
The owner, Patricia Spencer, is one of the most admirable women out there. Very creative and very far-looking woman.
Never heard of it. I’ll have to check it out. Where do you buy them? Online?
Carol,
Yes, LOVE it!
www. GrabGreenHome.com
Thank you!
I will have to check them out thanks
Only an expert when the realtor is coming over LOL
Julia, that totally made me laugh so loud I scared the cat!
Happy St.Patty’s Day!
Happy St Patty’s Day!
Happy St Patrick’s day. I’m spring cleaning this morning.
Hello