Getting ready to tackle the big spring cleaning jobs around your house, but don’t want to spend a fortune on commercial cleaners that may, or may not, work?  Consumer Reports ShopSmartMag.org (April 2013) recommends three, tried and true, homemade recipes for cleaners that are inexpensive and easy to make!

 All-Purpose Vinegar Cleaner: Good For Counters

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water

1.  Combine the vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

2.  Shake well to blend

All-Purpose Soapy Ammonia: Use on Walls and Floors

• 1/2 cup household ammonia
• 1 teaspoon mild liquid dishwashing detergent (without bleach)

1.  Combine the ammonia and liquid dishwashing detergent in a bottle.

2.  Shake well to blend.

3.  Dilute in 1 gallon of water for use on walls and floors.

Glass-And-Window Cleaner

• 7 pints cold water
• 1/2 cup soapy ammonia
• 1 pint rubbing alcohol

1.  Fill a 1- or 2-gallon bucket with the water. Carefully add the ammonia and rubbing alcohol (See Safety Tips below).

2.  Mix well and pour into spray bottles. The mixture should clean glass well and leave few or no streaks.

5 SAFETY MUSTS!!

• Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other acids. Those combos can produce deadly gases.
• Always wear gloves to protect skin.
• Store safely. Keep all cleaners, including homemade ones, well labeled. Store them away from kids and pets.
• When working with chemical cleaners, check warning labels, open windows and doors, and keep kids and pets far away from where you’re cleaning.
• Try a cleaner in a hidden spot before using it on a surface for the first time.