Save on cleaning products

One of the things I most enjoy doing to save money is making my own natural cleaning products. They're cheap, great for the environment and good for your health too. You can use the following recipes from every day to help save you money so why not give them a try?

1. All-purpose cleaning solution

You won't believe how good this cleaner is until you try it!

Ingredients

1 litre water
200ml vinegar
40ml detergent
40ml eucalyptus oil
2 dessertspoons washing soda

Method

Mix all ingredients together and it's ready to use. It makes about two litres. Use 60ml in warm water to wash floors. Fill a spray bottle and use it to clean tables, benches and the bathroom. It cleans and polishes everything, including windows. I've never seen glass and stainless-steel taps so clean!

2. Chemical-free laundry liquid
This bulk laundry liquid works out at less than 20c per litre.

Ingredients

1 bar Velvet or Sunlight soap
1 cup Lectric or washing soda

Method

Grate the bar of soap into a large pot. Cover with water and simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soap has melted. Pour into a large 20-25 litre bucket (I use a covered nappy bucket). Add the Lectric or washing soda. Add enough very hot water to fill the bucket. Stir often as it cools down (any long stick or spoon will do). Leave overnight to gel, stirring occasionally as it starts to thicken. For top-loading washing machines use one cup per load, or half a cup per load for front-loading machines. Pour it into old detergent bottles or simply leave in the bucket. If using a bucket, make sure it's covered with a lid to protect children or pets. If the gel is too thick for your liking, add some more hot water to get the desired consistency. This homemade laundry liquid does not contain any detergents so it won't be too bubbly or frothy.