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So you’ve got a touch of mildew? Not to worry, we’ve all been there. Luckily there are a few ways you can tackle and conquer your standard bathroom buildup, be it mildew, grout or scum, without having to enlist the aid of harmful chemical-laden cleaning products. Especially as the weather outside gets cooler and you’re less inclined to open windows and doors to let stale and toxic air circulate out, using naturally sourced cleaning products really is in your and your family’s best interests. And what could be more naturally sourced than cleaning agents made from the contents of your fridge and pantry.

 

White or cider vinegar and water 

You’ve probably heard of this old-as-time concoction for streak-free windows; it also works wonders to remove finger smudges and toothpaste residue from bathroom mirrors. Simply fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 ratio of water and vinegar – white or cider vinegar will do – and use a microfiber cloth for best results. Don’t like the sharp scent of vinegar? Add one or two drops of orange or lemon essential oil to mimic the fragrance of a store bought product.

Vinegar can also be used to remove stubborn grout and soap scum residue that builds up between tiles.

 

Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda

Speaking of stubborn grout, simply sprinkle baking soda over your tiles and then spray the area with hydrogen peroxide to break down the buildup. Scrub the area with a toothbrush or sponge and the grout should easily clear away.

Baking soda on its own also has notorious odor-eliminating properties. Fill a mason jar with it and leave it in the bathroom. Much like it would in your fridge, the baking soda will capture and absorb bad smells.

 

Fresh lemons

You’d be amazed at what a freshly cut lemon can do for your bathroom. In addition to having natural anti bacterial properties and a great, fresh smell, the acid in lemons can be used to break down built up soap scum, and rust stains on your tub and sink.

 

Salt and fresh lemons

Rather than tossing your shower curtain out when you begin to see mineral and mildew buildup, you can give it a deep clean using salt and lemon juice. First, soak the curtain in salt water for 15 minutes, hang it up and then rub any remaining stains with lemon juice. Then give it a good rinse and your curtain should be returned to its former glory.

 

Baking soda and white vinegar

Dealing with stubborn toilet stains? Simply sprinkle that oh-so-helpful baking soda around the interior of the bowl and the add undiluted white vinegar and scrub the bowl like you usually would. Not only is this solution cheaper and greener than buying a toilet bowl cleaner from the store, but the vinegar will automatically disinfect and neutralize odors.

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