6.9 Materials: Using and Reusing

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6.9.14 DIY Cleaning

Harmful vs. Helpful: Let’s Talk Cleaning!

- The Not-So-Nice Cleaning Chemicals
Some cleaning products might seem like superheroes, but they have a dark side. Here are a few troublemakers hiding under your sink:

 

  1. Bleach: Sure, it kills bacteria and mold, but the fumes? Ouch! They can irritate your eyes, skin, and lungs, especially if there’s no fresh air around.
  2. Ammonia: Found in glass cleaners, it’s like a sneaky villain that releases toxic fumes when you’re not looking.
  3. Phthalates and VOCs: These hide in fragranced cleaners. They might smell nice, but they can give you headaches, make it hard to breathe, and even cause long-term problems.
  4. Harsh Acids and Alkalis: Drain and toilet cleaners are the big baddies here. They can cause burns and release super-dangerous fumes.
  • Check the ingredients in your cleaning products. Do you find any harmful material in them?

 

The Friendly Clean Team!

Don’t worry—there are safer versions ready to help you clean without the drama!

Vinegar and Baking Soda
These two are the ultimate cleaning duo!

  • Vinegar: It’s like a magic potion that fights soap and hard water stains.
  • Baking Soda: Think of it as a gentle scrubber for sinks, tiles, and tubs—it won’t scratch surfaces!
    How to use: Sprinkle baking soda, spray vinegar on top, watch the fizz (it’s like a science experiment!), scrub, and rinse.

Lemon Juice
When life gives you lemons, clean with them!

  • Naturally antibacterial and smells fresh.
  • Mix it with baking soda for stubborn messes—it’s like a natural cleaning power-up!

Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Want something store-bought? Look for cleaners labeled "biodegradable" and "non-toxic". These plant-based wonders skip the nasty synthetic chemicals.

  • How many of these friendly cleaners do you already have?