Frugal Friday -- Making Your Own Cleaners

I've read a few great post lately on making your own cleaners for your home. I've done some investigating and compiled a list of a few said posts. If you have the patience and gumption to give a try, making your own cleaners can be a positive thing for your family.

Here are some of the pluses to making 'em yourself:
*Little to no toxins to worry about. This is great if you have pets or little ones.
*No irritating harsh chemicals or fumes
*Making your own cleaners can be an investment initally, you do need bottles for the
cleaners, supplies, etc., but you save much more money in the long run.
*It's better for the environment. Not only are you cutting back on the chemicals we are
pumping into the world, but since you are reusing cantainers, towels, etc. you are cutting
back on waste as well.
*It's good karma. How could doing good for the environment, your family, and your finances
not be good karma?
*No cleaner in the store smells as good as one made with essential oils

A few good read and recipes on the subject:
*Organizedhome.com has several different recipes here
*Wildwood Mama has a simple recipe for homemade laundry detergent here
*Money Saving Mom has a great guest post by Michelle from Leaving Excess with more
ideas and recipes here

These are just a couple of the great posts I came up with. I plan on doing a Sustainability Series beginning in the next couple of weeks with more great tips on saving money while living responsibly.

Also you can download a coupon here for Arm & Hammer baking soda to get you started. Other Arm & Hammer coupons are also available. You can print each coupon twice per email address. The coupon button is in the top left hand corner.

Trying for yourself? Using homemade cleaners already? Suggestions? Let us know! We'd love to hear them!