Showing posts with label Natural. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Natural. Show all posts

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Green Cleaning

In microbiology class, we tested the effectiveness of various household cleaners by spreading them out on agar plates and watching if microorganisms would grow. Choices were Fabuloso, bleach, and 70% isopropyl alcohol. They were all very effective. Considering however, the toxic side effects of regular household cleaners, 70% isopropyl alcohol is a MUCH better option, because it's a wonderful disinfectant (no wonder it's used as an antiseptic). Did I mention that it's the best window cleaner ever? It leaves it clean with no marks, and works just as well as regular window cleaners. Stores offer a huge clutter of various cleaning supplies that you seem to need for every different surface, but there are much simpler solutions.

For windows, glass, and other surfaces, 70% isopropyl alcohol works splendidly. 70% works better than 90%. Just pour into a spray bottle and use. :)
Another natural option: white distilled vinegar for just about anywhere: cabinets, floors, bathroom stalls, toilet seats, sinks, etc. Mix 1:1 white distilled vinegar: water in a spray bottle. Its acidity kills bacteria and fungus. It has a very strong smell, so don't clean with it right before visitors come, but after it dries, the smell disappears. :) Therefore, it's simpler to limit your cleaning products down to what's really necessary, and bleach and other toxic cleaners are used for the very rare emergency cases. :)

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Cure for Cat Conjunctivitis: Apple Cider Vinegar

 Our Cat Daisy

A few months ago, our poor cat's right eye was red and swollen and was half-way closed. Maybe bacteria got in there due to grooming after using the restroom? We're not sure, but it looked quite serious.

But there's a natural solution and you don't have to go to the vet and spend a lot. Get a big bottle of apple cider vinegar (it was $1 at Kroger's) and pour some down its back and rub it into the back of the neck. Also soak it on a paper towel, then rub it in its paws, and let it groom itself and disinfect its face. Spray a tiny bit amount in its water bowl. Repeat every couple of hours, and after a few days, it should heal quite nicely! :) (Your cat will probably hate it and try to run away. Also, ACV smells putrid but it does its job!)

Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy for fungal infections. Now our cat's eyes are better. :D