household cleaners

The 5 Best Carpet Stain Removers

Andrea Cannon — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 10:00:03 +0000

Whenever you have a spill on carpet, it’s crucial that you clean it as quickly and as thoroughly as possible, so that it does not create a stain. Fortunately, with a carpet stain remover, you can thoroughly clean any new spills or set-in stains in a matter of seconds. Before you replace your carpeting or call in the professionals, try a professional strength stain remover on the spot first for dramatic results at a fraction of the cost.

What Is Carpet Stain Remover?

A carpet stain remover can quickly remove any new or existing spots and stains. All you need to do is spray, wait, and blot the spot, working from the outside in. There is no rinsing, vacuuming, heavy scrubbing, or waiting involved with spot cleaners. Most carpet cleaners can be used on all your area rugs and upholstery as well. Carpet spills happen to the best of us from time to time, no matter how much you try to prevent it. That’s why we’ve found some of the best carpet stain removers available, so you’re prepared for the next accident.

Top 5 Carpet Stain Removers

Hoover Platinum Collection Professional Strength Instant Stain Remover

In a test conducted by Good Housekeeping, the Hoover Platinum Collection Professional Strength Instant Stain Remover scored best for both fresh and set-in stain removal with just one application. Wine, spaghetti, grease, cosmetics, coffee, and pet stains are no match for this professional strength instant stain remover spray. It is very easy to use and works quickly, even on stains that have dried overnight. Along with removing the stain, it will also help to remove any odor left behind. This works just as well on rugs and upholstery because it won’t damage the surfaces below, so it is ideal if you tend to spill a lot. From the widely trusted Hoover brand, this stain removal spray is approved by the Carpet & Rug Institute and backed by outstanding reviews online.

Currently $6.67 on Amazon

Resolve Carpet Triple Oxi Advanced Carpet Stain Remover

Recommended by Good Housekeeping and Consumer Reports, Resolve Carpet Triple Oxi Advanced Carpet Stain Remover lifts stains, neutralizes odors, and refreshes your carpet with just one spray. It contains special ingredients, which allow it to safely lighten stains. Its 3x Oxi Action power has a three-part stain removal system, which is designed to remove stains with just one application. It penetrates the spill deeply to break it down so that the stains don’t reappear. It is easy to use and comes with clear, easy-to-follow instructions.

Even large spots, pet spots, and tough stains — like wine, tomato sauce, grease, motor oil, mud, ink, dirt, and coffee spills — are no match for this spray. It will also help with odor removal and even leave your carpets softer after application. A test conducted by Real Simple found that this spray powered through even the worst dark stains on cream-colored carpet and put its competitors to shame. For harsh, set-in stains, you may need to use a stiff brush to lift the spill. When used as directed, it is safe around pets and children.

Currently $8.69 on Amazon

BISSELL Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot and Stain Remover

Recommended by Good Housekeeping and Consumer Reports, the BISSELL Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot and Stain Remover is armed with an oxygen ingredient that works to safely lighten stains on your carpets and rugs. The oxygen technology can work on both new and set-in stains by removing the stain all the way to the backing. The patented odor removal technology will also remove any tough odors left behind, like smoke, mold, mildew, and pet and kitchen odors, and replace them with a clean, fresh scent. Wine, pet stains, spaghetti, coffee, blood motor oil, and grease are no match for this effective oxygen cleaner. It can power through any stains — both fresh ones and day-old stains — after just one application. The triple oxy formula will permanently remove all stains and odors, and will protect your carpet against future stains. The non-aerosol continuous spray is easy to use, works quickly, and has a targeted sprayer, which can be directed at the source of the stain, deep below the surface of the pile.

This spray works so well that it can even pick up stains that competing stain removers left behind. The foam formula also earned the EPA's Design for the Environment label, which shows it’s made of the safest ingredients possible. BISSELL is a trusted brand that also offers a number of other award-winning Oxy Pro products, so you are bound to be happy with anything from the line.

Currently $6.99 on Amazon

Dyson Dyzolv Spot Cleaner

From the trusted Dyson brand, Dyson Dyzolv Spot Cleaner does not disappoint. It has four active agents, which mobilize and clean stains, and speed drying time. It can clean any tough spots and spills, even food, soil, and grease. It is ideal for both new and very old, set-in stains. It works on heavy-duty spills and is even effective where other spot cleaners have failed. The PH neutral spray is ideal for wool and stain-resistant carpets and rugs. Once you spray the spill, you can immediately begin blotting it away. It works almost instantly and you can see the stain lifting right before your eyes.

Currently $18.90 on Amazon

Sunny and Honey Enzyme Cleaner, Pet Stain Remover, and Odor Eliminator

As Amazon’s #1 best seller in carpet and upholstery cleaning equipment accessories, this Sunny and Honey Enzyme Cleaner, Pet Stain Remover, Odor Eliminator, and Carpet Stain Remover offers a great value. It works on most surfaces and can power through any spills and odors, and even the worst pet marks. When you simply can’t take the scent of pets (whether it’s from cat vomit, dog drool, or any of the other fun pet droppings), this pet odor eliminator can actually leave your home smelling clean and fresh. The powerful natural bio-enzymatic formula uses only the highest quality ingredients available to fight through any stains on your carpets, rugs, floor, furniture, leather, animal bedding and crates, litter box, automobile, and more by eliminating the stain and odor at the root. It has a pleasant fresh peppermint scent and some reviewers even found that after using this spray, their pets didn’t mark the same spot again.

The cruelty-free spray has the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Seal of Approval and is certified to protect your property. It uses no harmful chemicals, so it is safe to use around your pets and children. Pet odors and stains are some of the most difficult ones to battle, but this spray will actually do what it promises to. In fact, it is backed by a 60-day money back guarantee for your added peace of mind.

Currently $19.97 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best carpet stain removers. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Clean Everything With Just 3 All-Natural Cleaners

Elizabeth Lang — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 11:24:15 +0000

You don't have to spend a fortune to have a clean house. If I bought every cleaning product that's marketed to me, I would spend $1,000 and have nowhere to keep my linens. Instead, I avoid buying specialty products when I can and rely on a few staples that, when used in various combinations, can clean my entire house. (See also: Essential Cleaning Tricks)

I save a ton of money this way, and my cleaning supplies are natural, which means they're safer to use around my two-year-old. Here are the only three cleaning cleaning products you'll ever need to have a house Martha Stewart would be proud of.

Baking Soda

I became a baking soda believer when my dog threw up on the carpet a week before I was scheduled to move out of my apartment. Baking soda saved the day. Since then, I've discovered dozens of household uses for baking soda. Here are some of my favorites. (See also: 27 Uses for Baking Soda)

Pet (or Other) Stains on Carpet

To remove a pet stain from your carpet, soak the stain in vinegar (see below), cover it with baking soda, let the baking soda dry, and then vacuum it up. Your carpet will be good as new — and it won't smell. (This works for non-pet stains, too.)

Stinky Couches (and Other Places)

On a related note, if your couch is starting to smell like a kennel, sprinkle some baking soda on it, let it rest for a while, and then vacuum up the baking soda. Baking soda also works for absorbing smells in closets, refrigerators, diaper pails, and other odoriferous parts of your house. (See also: How to Make a Crappy Couch Awesome)

Tubs, Tiles, and Sinks

The grittiness of baking soda makes it perfect for scrubbing up stains. Use a baking soda paste to clean your bathtub. Apply the paste to your tub and tile, then use a scrub brush to get rid of built-up stains.

Stovetops

If you have a glass-top stove, you know how annoying a boil-over or caked-on spill can be to clean up. Don't spend money on expensive specialty stove cleaners. Instead, make a baking soda paste, dip a rag in it, then scrub the stain. To get rid of really caked-on stains, soak them in water first.

Dining Room Table

When I spilled hot tea on my antique dining room table, I was devastated. I tried all of the traditional ways to get rid of the heat ring (mayonnaise, polish, cleaners), but nothing worked. My last-ditch effort was baking soda. I made a very fine paste, then very gently rubbed it into the stain in small a circular motion. It worked; my table looked brand new.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a miracle cleaner that you can use in the kitchen, bathroom, and around the house. It's up for even the toughest cleaning challenges. And although vinegar is pungent in its pure form, the odor lessens significantly when it's diluted. (See also: Household Products Vinegar Can Replace)

In Your Kitchen

In the kitchen, use vinegar to clean your coffee pot. Simply add pour a mixture that's half vinegar, half water into the reservoir and then run the coffee pot. To clean grease-covered a pan or countertop, soak a rag in vinegar, then scrub away the grease.

In Your Bathroom

In the bathroom, spray vinegar on your fixtures to make them sparkly. Dip a toothbrush in vinegar to clean grimy grout. Fight mildew by spraying your walls and shower or tub with undiluted vinegar, then scrubbing it off with a sponge or rag. Combined with baking soda, vinegar also unclogs drains (use a 2:1 ratio of vinegar to baking soda). Just pour the baking soda down the drain, then follow it with the vinegar.

Countertops, Windows, and Mirrors

You can also put a vinegar/water mixture in a spray bottle and use it as you would a multi-purpose cleaner to clean countertops and give windows and mirrors a streak-free shine.

Washing Machine Freshener

If your laundry comes out of the washer smelling rank (think gym clothes and sports uniforms), vinegar can be a lifesaver. Just add ½ cup to your wash along with your regular detergent, and your clothes will smell fresh and clean.

(Want even more ideas for ways to use vinegar? 250+ Ways to Use Vinegar)

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for vinegar in many of the uses listed above, including shining your bathroom fixtures, bleaching grout, and giving windows and mirrors a streak-free wipe-down. It's also a good alternative if you really can't stand the smell of vinegar, but love lemon's fresh citrus scent. Plus, lemon also has uses of its own. (See also: Alternative Uses for Lemons)

Garbage Disposal Freshener

Lemon is great for cleaning a smelly garbage disposal. Squeeze some juice down the drain, then toss some peel in after it. Run the disposal, and your whole kitchen will smell fresh.

Cutting Board Stains

If your cutting board is covered in stains, rub a lemon on it. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off. Your cutting board will look brand new.

Wine Glass Sparkler

Use lemon to make your wine glasses sparkle. Lemon juice also works on other glass, like windows, mirrors, and oven windows.

Hand Deodorizer

If your hands have a stench after preparing fish, garlic, or onions for dinner, rinse them with lemon juice or rub them with lemons to remove the odor.

Before you reach for a store-bought cleaning for your next cleaning project, consider giving baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice a try. You'll save money, and I bet the results will surprise you.

What are your favorite around-the-house cleaning uses for baking soda, vinegar, and lemons?

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This article is from Elizabeth Lang of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

30 Easy Ways to Unstick Something That's Stuck

Linsey Knerl — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 11:36:17 +0000

Have you ever purchased an item only to have difficulty removing the price tag? Or tried to get chewing gum out of clothing or hair? Scrubbed a pan with burnt-on food? Had something stuck but you just could not get it "un-stuck"?

Some of the best methods for unsticking require items you have in your home right now. If one doesn't work, try another! Here is a big list of the ones to start trying. (See also: 14 Grease and Oil Stain Removal Tips)

Petroleum Jelly

1. Rings

This common beauty staple works great when unsticking a ring that is stuck. Apply some to the finger area, dip your hand in cold water, and then twist the ring back and forth until it slips off.

2. Zippers

It will also work on a stuck zipper. Rub it on the area that is stuck and slide the pull back and forth to lubricate the area until it unsticks.

3. Candle Wax

Did a drippy candle leave melted wax behind that you can't seem to remove? Apply the jelly to the edges of the wax. Let it sit for a few minutes and then begin to lift the wax up with your fingernail.

4. Gum in Hair

Gum stuck in hair is no match for the petroleum jelly either. Apply it to the gum until it slips out of the hair, or work it out gently with a fine-toothed comb.

5. Gum on Furniture

You can rub petroleum jelly on gum that is stuck on wood, as well. Just rub it until the gum loosens and falls apart. (See also: Refinishing Tricks to Make Old Furniture Shine)

Pencil Lead

6. Zippers (Again)

Most everyone has a pencil lying around, but you can also use dried graphite in a commercial spray applicator. Either will work to unstick a zipper. Just rub the pencil (or spray the graphite) over the area that is stuck together and work the pull back and forth until it unsticks.

Rubbing Alcohol

7. Bandage Adhesive

When bandages have left residue on the skin, use this to remove the gummy leftovers. Just dab it onto the skin liberally and then wash off.

8. Price Tags

Rubbing alcohol can also remove stuck on price tags. Just dab it on with a cotton ball, let it sit for a minute, and wipe off!

Glass Cleaner

9. Price Tags (on Glass)

This handy cleaner also works great for removing price tags from glass. Spray on the tag well, and then wipe off with a cloth.

Vinegar

10. Stickers (on Plastic and Glass)

This wonder solution works to remove stickers from plastic and glass (like car windows). Spray the vinegar onto the sticker, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wash off. (See also: 30 Products That Vinegar Can Replace)

Dry Erase Marker

11. Permanent Marker (on Dry Erase Board)

Did someone use the wrong marker (like a permanent one) on your dry erase board? Permanent marker can be "un-stuck" from a dry erase board by using a dry erase marker. Just write over the permanent marker with the dry erase marker and then wipe away.

Peanut Butter

12. Stickers and Labels

Creamy works better than chunky, but either will remove labels from jugs, jars, and other objects with a stuck on sticker. Buy the cheapest peanut butter you can find, slather it on top of whatever is stuck, let it set for about 30 minutes, and then wipe away. (See also: 15 Surprising Uses for Peanut Butter)

Salt

13. Sweaty Drinking Glasses (on Coasters)

Surprisingly, this table staple can be used to keep a coaster or napkin from sticking to your sweating glass! Sprinkle salt onto the napkin, and the glass will no longer stick to it when you pick it up.

14. Clothing Iron Gunk

If you have an iron with gunk on it, sprinkle it with salt and then iron a brown paper sack. This may need to be repeated a few times for all the gunk to be removed.

Toothpaste

15. Trumpet Valve

This minty must-have is a secret weapon for musicians who play brass instruments. Used correctly, toothpaste can unstick a stuck valve.

16. Crayon Marks (on Walls)

Toothpaste can remove crayon from walls. Use the non-gel kind, wipe it onto the wax with a cloth, and then wash off with warm, soapy water.

Soap

17. Drawers and Windows

A bar of soap can be used to unstick a stubborn drawer or window. Rub the spot where it is stuck with a bar of soap and begins sliding it back and forth. Add more soap as more area is exposed. This will keep it from getting stuck again as well.

Baby Oil

18. Stickers, Labels, and Price Tags

Not just good for babies, this is yet another solution to remove sticky residue left from price tags, stickers, and labels. Rub the oil on the sticky area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe away. Dish detergent will remove any leftover oil as well.

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

19. Scuff Marks (and Sticker Residue)

If you have a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on hand, you can use it to remove more than scuff marks and dirt. These work great for removing stickers, labels, and price tags as well.

Citrus "Unsticker" (or a Citrus Peel)

20. Gum, Adhesive Residue, Glue, Whatever

Citrus cleaner, like Goo Gone (or a lemon or orange peel if you don't have any cleaner) works great for removing sticky things as well. The added bonus is that everything will smell great once you are done "un-sticking."

Mayo

21. Stickers, Labels, and Price Tags

Mayonnaise can also be spread onto sticky residue, labels, and price tags. Smear it on, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away. (See also: Unexpected Uses for Mayonnaise)

Hair Spray

22. Ink Stains

If you have ink stuck on a surface that you can't remove, try using hair spray. Spray some onto the ink, and wipe away easy as can be.

Hand Sanitizer

23. Ink and Permanent Marker (on Skin)

Hand sanitizer can be used to remove ink or permanent marker stuck on the skin.

Baking Soda / Peroxide

24. Gross Stuck-On Food

If you have stuck on food, grease, coffee, or tea stains, a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide will remove them. Make the paste and let it set on the stain for 30 minutes, then wipe away. This may need to be repeated for longer if it is a stubborn stain. Works great on drip pans as well. (See also: 25 Tricks for Quick and Easy Cleaning)

Heat

25. Candle Wax and Gum

Candle wax or gum can be removed using an iron and a paper sack. Lay the sack over top of the wax and then run a warm iron over top of it. Gently lift the sack and move to a clean place until all the wax or gum is removed.

26. Photographs

A hair dryer will remove a stuck photograph. Start with the lowest setting on the dryer and blow the warm air over the back of the photograph. It will then lift from whatever it is stuck to. (See also: How to Save Old Photographs)

Cold

27. Candle Wax and Gum

When candle wax or gum needs to be removed from something, ice or the freezer works great. The cold hardens the wax and allows it to pop off or out of whatever it is stuck in. This method works great for getting the last of the candle wax unstuck from the candle holder.

Aluminum Foil

28. Grease, Caked On Food, Other Icky Things

Crumpling up a little of this can help scrape off a number of icky, sticky things. Use it instead of steel wool on your pots and pans (as long as they don't have a non-stick coating). (See also: 36 Uses for Tin Foil)

Dryer Sheets

29. Baked-on Food

Dryer sheets can be used to remove baked on food from pans. Place a new dryer sheet in the pan and fill with warm water. Let it sit for a few hours and then wash out with soap and water.

Cornstarch

30. Stubborn Knot

Cornstarch will unstick a stubborn knot. Sprinkle the knot with cornstarch and it will easily slip out.

No matter what is stuck, there's a solution in your home to fix it. All of the items mentioned in this list are easier to find and usually cheaper than any commercial product.

How do you get things unstuck? Let us know in comments!

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This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 DIYs For a Sparkling Clean Bathroom

POPSUGAR Smart Living — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 10:48:09 +0000

Transform your bathroom into the best room in the house with DIYs that save you money and keep things nice and clean. And all of these cleaners are so easy to put together, which makes having them on hand a big plus. Here are a few of our favorites:

Toilet Bomb Fizzies

Make these toilet bomb fizzies to flush away the bad smells — it works much better than lighting a match.

Counter Wipes

Not only do these counter wipes do a great job of quickly cleaning your space, they look pretty nice, too. Don't have a coffee can hanging around? Use a 64-ounce yogurt tub instead.

Tub, Tile, and Grout Help

Stash a container of this easy and eco-friendly tub, tile, and grout scrub under your bathroom sink to keep your bath sparkling.

Commode Cleaner

Keep things spotless with the help of this DIY toilet bowl cleaner that helps you scrub away stains and unwanted smells.

Bye-Bye, Hard Water Stains

If you've got glass shower doors, this DIY does an amazing job of busting through hard water stains.

Happy Drains

Keep your drains flowing with the help of this all-natural drain cleaner.

Toilet Roll Trick

You'll wonder why you didn't think of this smart idea earlier.

Air Freshener

Sometimes you need a little extra help making things smell better in the bathroom, which makes tucking a bottle of this eco-friendly air freshener in your medicine cabinet a smart idea.

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From air to toilet to tub, keep your bathroom nice and clean with these easy (and effective!) DIY cleaners.

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This article is from POPSUGAR Smart Living of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Dishwashing Detergents

Gina Ippolito — Thu, 14 Nov 2013 10:48:03 +0000

Doing the dishes is enough of a chore without having to worry about water spots or stubborn, stuck on food. Dishwashing detergents are not all created equal, and with everyone from organic grocers to dollar stores selling different brands and types of detergents, there are a lot of options to choose from. Recent state laws banning phosphates in detergents have forced companies to change their ingredients, sometimes creating less than optimal results. We here at Wise Bread have taken the guesswork out of doing the dishes, by picking the top five best dishwashing detergents out there.

What Is Dishwashing Detergent?

Dishwashing detergent is a cleaning agent that is used to wash and clean dishes, cutlery, pots and pans, and any other kitchenware used for cooking and eating. It also has a number of other possible uses including killing weeds, repelling bugs, and shampooing hair, but its primary function is for scrubbing kitchenware. Dishwashing detergents typically contain a combination of chemicals, water, and scents.

Best 5 Dishwashing Detergents

Cascade Complete

This dishwashing detergent is consistently ranked best among websites in the know. Both Consumer Reports and Real Simple ranked Cascade Complete as their number one. This detergent seemingly makes pre-washing dishes totally unnecessary, with one reviewer claiming that it managed to totally clean dishes caked in old lasagna and dried-on oatmeal.

According to Consumer Reports, Cascade Complete will not leave a film or residue on dishes, and it also resists water spots, even when dishes are washed in hard water. It comes in powder form as well as gel packs, with both options offering optimum cleaning power. The gel packs are extremely convenient to use and have the added bonus of there being no messy spills to clean up.

Cascade Complete is phosphate free, but does contain bleach and enzymes. Available scents include Fresh, Citrus Breeze, and Lemon Burst.

Currently $10.97 for 48-count pack on Amazon.

Finish Quantum

Finish Quantum dishwashing detergent uses a special three-chamber technology to get dishes extremely clean. First, the microbeads activate to soften caked-on or burnt-on food. This makes pre-washing unnecessary. Next, bleach particles help to get rid of stains like coffee or tea. Finally, there is a rinse agent, which leaves dishes sparkling and shiny and helps resist film and water spots. Reviewers claim that Finish Quantum gets rid of even baked on cheese and dried oatmeal.

One advantage of this detergent is that there is no extra packaging and individual wrappers for each packet. This makes it easy to simply pop the packets out of the box and into the dishwasher. A possible downside to Finish Quantum seems to be that reviewers feel it doesn't work as well in hard water as the Cascade Complete.

Finish Quantum contains bleach and enzymes, and available varieties include Original, Lemon Sparkle and Baking Soda.

Currently $9.97 for 45-count pack on Amazon.

Method Smarty Dish Tablets

Method Smarty Dish Tablets are one of the best eco-friendly, green detergents on the market. The tablets contain no phosphates, bleach, or chlorine. Every ingredient is listed on Method's website. Additionally, the minimal packaging helps reduce waste and trash, making it even better for the environment.

A downside to this green detergent seems to be that, when used in hard water, it leaves a filmy residue. One reviewer suggested using a rinse agent with to solve that problem, with another reviewer claiming that simply leaving a bowl of white vinegar in the dishwasher leaves dishes sparkling and residue free. Another issue with this detergent is that, as with many eco-friendly products, these are slightly more expensive than the other detergent varieties.

Method Smarty Dish Tablets come in scented Pink Grapefruit, or the unscented, perfume- and dye-free option, Go Naked.

Currently $8.58 for 20-count pack on Amazon.

Seventh Generation Auto Dish Pacs

Another eco-friendly detergent option is Seventh Generation Auto Dish Pacs. Seventh Generation produces a slew of all natural household and personal care products, and they clearly know what they're doing. This detergent is dye free and contains no phosphates, chlorine, or synthetic fragrances. The outer pouch that the tabs come in is also biodegradable, showing this company's dedication to being green.

As far as cleaning capability goes, most reviewers are extremely positive. It apparently cleans with little to no pre-washing, and leaves no film or water spots, even in hard water. One reviewer claimed that there was no smell on the dishes after washing like there is with other detergents. The only downside seems to be that it is slightly harder to find than other brands, especially at local grocery stores.

Seventh Generation Auto Dish Pacs come in Free & Clear or lemon scent.

Currently $8.99 for 45-count pack on Amazon.

Mrs. Meyer's Automatic Dish Packs

The biggest selling point to this environmentally friendly detergent seems to be the variety of great smelling options. Mrs. Meyer's Automatic Dish Packs contain no phosphates or chlorine, and are infused with essential oils that offer scents many other detergents do not.

Reviewers claim that Mrs. Meyer's leaves dishes clean and sparkling and is great at getting off food particles with no pre-rinsing. It is less harsh than many of the other options on the market, and it uses an oxygen bleach formula to get dishes clean. Like Seventh Generation, this detergent may be more difficult to find, especially in smaller stores with fewer options.

Mrs. Meyer's Automatic Dish Packs come in Basil, Lavender, Lemon Verbena, and Geranium scents.

Currently $7.14 for 20-count pack on Amazon.

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This article is from Gina Ippolito of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Other Green Cleaners Already in Your House

Camilla Cheung — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:36:18 +0000

You've probably heard of the amazing cleaning properties of baking soda and vinegar. However, did you know that you probably have several other natural green cleaners in your home? These lesser-known household cleaners are better for the environment, effective at cleaning, and easy on your wallet. (See also: 30 Household Products Vinegar Can Replace)

Borax

Borax is the natural salt of boric acid and is mined in places like Death Valley, California. It is a 100% naturally occurring substance and is a useful all-purpose cleaner in the home. However, unlike other natural cleaners like vinegar or baking soda, it is not entirely harmless. A significant dose of the chemical can be toxic, so keep the box of Borax stored out of reach of children and pets (just as you should keep laundry detergent out of reach — it's toxic if ingested).

That being said, Borax is mild enough to use for all sorts of household purposes without harm. I usually mix it with a drop or two of liquid soap and use it to scrub the scum off my bathtub and bathroom sink. It works better than commercial cleaners, without the fumes, bleach, and caustic chemicals. It’s also non-abrasive. In fact, it’s so mild that I usually just give my bathtub a scrubbing while I’m in the shower and rinse off any leftover Borax with the hand-held shower head, something that would be downright dangerous with a commercial cleaner.

I also add a couple of tablespoons to my laundry to boost the cleaning power of my detergent. Borax helps to remove stains (it makes a great pre-wash soak for stained clothing), and by softening the water, helps the detergent to work better. My Canadian friends rave about McGuire Naturals’ organic stain removing stick, in which the first ingredient is “enhanced borax.” It’s perfect for children’s clothing on which you don’t want to use artificial perfumes and dyes.

Borax is a natural insecticide and can be used to keep the ant population down. It can also help keep your drains clear when used regularly — pour some Borax powder down the drain and follow with boiling water. You can also mix it with water and vinegar to make a great window-cleaning solution.

Castile Soap

Castile soap is a fancy name for organic vegetable-based soap. It is a mild and gentle biodegradable soap that comes under a variety of brand names (most commonly, Dr. Bronner’s pure liquid soap). Soaps are generally made of natural ingredients (as opposed to detergents, which are synthetic), and are thus better for your health and for the environment.

You can use Castile soap to clean laundry — although soaps are not as effective as detergents if you have hard water, they also won’t wear out fabrics as quickly. Try using it with a few tablespoons of Borax or baking soda to up the stain-fighting factor and to soften the water. Dilute soap with water to clean floors and counters. Mix Castile soap with baking soda to scrub stains off of dishes, sinks, bathtubs, counters, etc. Mix the soap with water and vinegar to make your own spray cleansing solution. You can use it to wash dishes and even to wash your car!

I’ve also mixed soap with water to spray on the leaves of my plants — this helps to get rid of unwanted pests and insects.

Pure Castile soap is cheap and it makes a natural and gentle body wash. Buy unscented liquid Castile soap to shampoo your dog; it’s organic and won’t irritate his nose with synthetic perfumes. And because pure Castile soap is biodegradable, it makes a great camp soap for your next camping trip.

Rubbing Alcohol

Most people have a bottle of rubbing alcohol in their first-aid kit, and it works really well at getting off the sticky gunk left after peeling off a store label. However, be careful as rubbing alcohol is a very strong solvent and may damage the finish underneath. I use it to clean the gunk off ceramics and the glossy covers of books. It can also work as a spot cleaner to dissolve ink stains in clothing and fabrics. Use it to clean greasy fingerprints off of telephones, keyboards, and printers (it disinfects them too).

Be careful to avoid exposure when using rubbing alcohol; try not to breathe in fumes, and wear gloves to prevent hands from drying out. Rubbing alcohol is toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of children. It’s also highly flammable, so don’t use it near an open flame. In spite of being quite a strong and irritating solvent, it has a low impact on the environment.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Again, raid your first-aid box for cheap and natural household cleaners. Hydrogen peroxide is great on cuts, but did you know that it also kills mold and mildew? Dilute one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water, and spray it on moldy grout and tile. Rinse off an hour later.

Lemon

Lemon juice is a great natural, non-toxic cleaner that cuts grease really well. Wipe mixing bowls with a slice of lemon before beating egg whites to ensure no trace grease ruins the fluffiness of the eggs. Rub a slice of lemon over a cutting board to help clean and disinfect. Grind up a few wedges of lemon or some leftover lemon peels in the sink garbage disposal to clean out grease and get rid of bad smells. Wipe sinks and fixtures with lemon juice for a nice shine.

Cornstarch

Sprinkle cornstarch on a carpet and allow it to sit for 30 minutes to absorb dirt and odors before vacuuming. It works the same way as a dry shampoo for your hair, as it absorbs the grease, then brushes right out. Cornstarch can help remove fresh stains from fabric or carpet — make a paste of water and cornstarch, apply it to the stain and allow it to dry, then brush it off or wash it out. This works especially well for stubborn grease stains.

Club Soda

This party staple works especially well to treat fresh stains. As soon as a spill occurs, pour club soda over and blot with a towel.

Salt

Plain old salt can shine up tarnished brass and copper. Rub the surface with salt and vinegar or salt and lemon juice to bring it up to its original shine. Sprinkle salt on a fresh wine stain and the salt will help draw the stain out of the fabric.

What’s your favorite all-natural cleaner?

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This article is from Camilla Cheung of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Two Dozen Uses For Toothpaste (Aside From Cleaning Your Teeth)

Nora Dunn — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 03:23:29 +0000

Didn’t you know that toothpaste (despite its name) is for so much more than your teeth? It’s truly handy to have on hand (I pity the household - and their teeth - that has no toothpaste at all), because it is quite multi-functional. Here are a few ways you can get your toothpaste working extra hard for you:

Stain Removal and Cleaning

Crayon on Painted Walls

So the kiddies decided to express their artistic side all over the walls, huh? No worries. Rub a damp cloth and some toothpaste on your marked-up wall and rinse with a clean wet cloth.

Carpet Cleaning/Stain removal

Scrub away with an abrasive brush and toothpaste, rinse, and you’ll scrub the stain right out. You may even realize how dirty the rest of your carpet is in the process.

Cleaning Running Shoes

Similar to above, scrub away (especially on those scuffed up white rubber soles), wipe with a damp cloth, and watch your tootsies gleam.

Scuffed Leather Shoes

Put a dab on the scuff, rub in with a soft cloth, and rinse with a damp cloth.

Stained Clothes

It stands to reason that if toothpaste works on your carpets, it will work on clothes too. Apply the toothpaste directly to the stained fabric and rub the fabric together with all you’ve got. Rinse with water. You may have to do this a few times to fully remove the stain. This may not work on all fabrics or stains.

Cleaning Piano Keys

A well-used piano usually means some darker piano keys after a while. Scrub with toothpaste and a toothbrush, then wipe dry with a damp cloth, and you’ll be tickling some ivory ivories again.

Baby Bottles

If your baby bottles are getting a sour-milk smell, clean them out with some toothpaste using a bottle-scrubber, and rinse really well with water.

Cleaning The Iron

I guess I don’t use an iron enough for it to get gunky (wait a minute – I don’t even own an iron), but apparently crap can accumulate along the plate and bottom edge. Toothpaste has just enough abrasive in it to do the job nicely.

Make Chrome Gleam

Ran out of your bathroom or kitchen cleaner? Use some toothpaste in a pinch, and watch your taps shine.

Scrub Those Nails

Fingernails and toenails are made of similar stuff as teeth are. So scrub away using toothpaste and a nail brush for some shiny extremities.

Wash your Watch Band

I tried this on a plastic watch band I have that is embarrassingly dirty with only minimal results. Then again maybe this watch band was beyond repair.

Obviously if the watch itself is not water-resistant, be careful to keep it dry in the cleaning and rinsing process.

Take water rings off coffee table

Simply rub some toothpaste into the offending mark with a soft cloth and wipe dry with a clean damp cloth. Finish off with some furniture polish to help protect grandma’s antique table from staining again. Better yet – use coasters.

Jewelry Cleaner

I tried this on some seriously dull-looking jewelry the other day, and was very impressed with the results. Use a soft toothbrush to scrub lightly with a dab of toothpaste, rinse it, and polish it dry with a soft towel. You’ll discover a whole new shine to your precious accessories.

If you are dealing with a lot of grunge, dab some toothpaste on and let it sit overnight. Or better yet, dissolve some toothpaste in a small amount of water, and drop the jewelry in it for an overnight soak. Then follow up with the steps above.

Note: Do not use this technique on pearls, as you may damage the finish.

Skin Remedies

Overnight zit cream

Inevitably it happens right before a big job interview, or while you’re on the road without having brought along your trusty zit cream: the pimple of the century emerges. Never fear though: your toothpaste will do in a pinch to reduce the redness and dry out your greasy disaster. Just don’t forget to wash it off in the morning, or else they’ll be giving you some strange looks at that job interview.

Bee Sting ointment

I try not to get too close to these useful but annoying insects, but occasionally they like to get close to me. A touch of toothpaste can take the edge off the pain, and soothe the wound. Be sure to take the stinger out first of course.

Bug Bite Relief

Aaahh. Instead of scratching those pesky bites until they swell up and become unbearable, dab a little toothpaste on it and forget about your itchy worries.

Cold Sore Ointment

I know people who swear by this. It uses the same principle of relieving the itchiness and swelling of bug bites and acne. Again, best used as an overnight treatment.

Defogger

Goggle Defogger

Anybody who scuba dives knows that toothpaste is a great alternative to pricey defogger gel, and is particularly handy in taking the manufacture film off of a brand new mask or pair of goggles. Simply squirt a dab in each lens and rub in thoroughly with your fingers. Rinse well.

Bathroom Mirror Defogger

Using the same principle as above, it stands to reason that toothpaste can help keep your bathroom mirror clear as a bell while somebody is in the shower. This is great for a couple or household who shares a bathroom on a tight timeline, or for somebody who needs the mirror right after getting out of their hot shower.

More Wacky Uses

Fill in Nail Holes

If you are moving out of your digs quickly, have white walls, and don’t have any spackle to fill in the holes in the wall, you can use toothpaste to fill in the holes.

For painted walls, you can let the toothpaste dry and it’s good to paint over in a jiff.

Hanging Posters

Some people claim that toothpaste can be used to hang posters on the wall. If it works, then at least it saves having to fill gaping nail holes with the stuff when you move out!

Fix Scratched DVDs

Yes, toothpaste even fixes scratched DVDs, folks. Paul wrote about it a while back here. Admittedly, he didn't have much success with it, nor did I when I tried. Then again, the DVD I was using was pretty banged up.

Deodorizer

It makes your mouth smell pretty, so why wouldn’t it work for other things? It deodorizes your sink drain pipes pretty nicely, and if you got your hands into something stinky it will help make your hands smell pretty again with a good scrub. Heck – it cleans your nails too in the process.

Car Freshener

This one is really out there, but it might be worth a try. Put a dab on a paper towel, crumple it up, and stick it under your car seat. Park somewhere in the sunshine, and the heat of the car will warm up the toothpaste and make your car smell minty-fresh.

What Kind of Toothpaste to Use

These days, you can get toothpaste in all sorts of flavours, colours, and consistencies. For the applications in this article, stay away from the fancy stuff though and go with the original tried and true; make sure you have good ol’ white non-gel toothpaste.

Getting the Most of your Toothpaste Tube

Before you dismiss that tube as being empty, soak it in warm water for a few minutes. Use something flat like a knife handle or toothbrush handle to push the remaining warm toothpaste out of the tube. Get more for your money!

Disclaimer

I haven’t tried all of these strategies, and certainly advise you to be cautious before squirting toothpaste all over that precious heirloom (be it a watch, piano, dress, or table). If possible test a small inconspicuous patch first.

This article is from Nora Dunn of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: