Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Clean Your Windows Without Chemicals!

(Below is taken from Kangen Water blog)

Clean Windows, Naturally

Enjoying breakfast by your kitchen window, opening the shades to allow the natural sunlight to flood the living room, and smiling at the cat who jumps on the windowsill to dream of catching birds – the morning sunshine is beautiful, uplifting and energizing!

Then you notice the dust build-up or streaks left behind from the window cleaner, or perhaps little finger prints, distracting you from the beautiful rays. You have a choice: bring out the chemical filled window cleaner, spend extra on “green” products, or simply make your own inexpensive natural products at home.

Manufacturers are not required to list all ingredients used in their products. The listing you see on the back is what they have chosen to list, not necessarily every chemical and toxin actually used.

Spray Butyl cellosolve, found in most glass cleaners is easily absorbed through the skin. A minor reaction may include skin irritation and respiratory issues. Long term exposure or accidental ingestion can cause damage to the blood, kidneys, and central nervous system. A build-up of this toxin can cause serious health consequences. This is just an example of one of the many chemicals used in commercial glass cleaners.

You may not be able to control all the dangers of this world, but you can keep your children safer at home by eliminating toxins from your household. Did you know that household products are the number one source of child poisonings?

With Strong Kangen Water and a few basic household ingredients you can achieve clear, shiny windows and take a step closer to a chemical-free home, safe for the entire family.

One of the greatest features of your Kangen Water® machine is the ability to choose from 5 different water types, ranging from Strong Kangen Water to Strong Acidic Water. Each type has important and distinct abilities.

Strong Kangen Water is great for cleaning around the house. It is easily absorbed and the high alkaline content gives it the strength to tackle dirt, grime, and oil. Use this recipe for an effective, non-toxic, and inexpensive alternative that you can make right at home!
Window Cleaner

1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon liquid soap
2 cups Strong Kangen Water
10-12 drops essential oil *(optional for scent)

Combine in a spray bottle and shake to blend.

* Be sure to include the liquid soap, as it will cut the wax build up left behind from using commercial products.

* Essential oils are remarkably powerful. If you are chemically sensitive to fragrance, you can leave this step out. It is not essential to the cleaning process but leaves a pleasant scent.

Have fun making your own cleaner! You’ll protect your wallet, health and environment with clean, non-toxic, and chemical-free products.

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Sources:
http://www.switchtosaferproducts.com/

http://www.zerowaste.ca/articles/column32.html

http://www.howstuffworks.com/framed.htm?parent=green-household-cleaners.htm&url=http://www.livescience.com/environment/070806_green_cleaners.html

Hubert, Cynthia. “Shades of Green: The big scrub-off: It’s not hard to buy so-called eco-friendly cleaners, but do they work — and really meet the standard?” Knight Ridder Tribune Business News. Oct. 10, 2007