Cleaners, Comments and St. John of the Cross

For Glass & Windows (instead of Windex): Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of lemon essential oil if desired. Spray and wipe with newspaper or microfiber cloth for streak-free shine. The vinegar smell dissipates as it dries.

For All-Purpose Cleaning (instead of Mr. Clean): Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, and 10-15 drops of tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil in a spray bottle. This mixture cuts grease, disinfects surfaces, and leaves no toxic residue. Safe for counters, sinks, and most surfaces.

For Laundry (instead of Tide): Use soap nuts (dried berries that naturally produce soap) or make your own powder: 1 cup washing soda, 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup coarse salt. Add 2 tablespoons per load. For fresh scent, add 10 drops lavender essential oil to wool dryer balls instead of chemical fabric softeners.

For Floors (instead of Swiffer): Hot water with 1/4 cup white vinegar per gallon cleans most floor types effectively. For wood floors, add 1 tablespoon olive oil to protect and condition. Use a reusable microfiber mop instead of disposable pads that create waste and expense.

For Air Freshening (instead of Febreze): Open windows for actual fresh air. Simmer cinnamon sticks, orange peels, and cloves in water on the stove. Use essential oil diffusers with peppermint, lemon, or eucalyptus. Baking soda in open containers absorbs odors naturally rather than masking them with synthetic fragrances that damage your respiratory system.

For Body Wash (instead of Dove/Old Spice): Use pure castile soap (Dr. Bronner's is widely available) diluted with water. Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil for scent. Your skin doesn't need synthetic moisturizers if you're not stripping it with harsh detergents in the first place.

For Toilet Cleaning: Sprinkle baking soda in the bowl, add 1/2 cup white vinegar, let fizz for 10 minutes, scrub and flush. For tough stains, use borax powder. Both options sanitize without toxic fumes that damage your lungs and nervous system.

The transition away from chemical products feels inconvenient initially—new habits always do. But once you've eliminated synthetic fragrances and toxins from your home, you'll notice improved respiratory function, fewer headaches, better sleep, and clearer thinking. Your body will thank you for removing the daily chemical assault it's been managing without your awareness.