6.9 Materials: Using and Reusing
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6.9.14 DIY Cleaning
Harmful vs. Helpful: Let’s Talk Cleaning!
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- | 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: |
- 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.
- Ammonia: Found in glass cleaners, it’s like a sneaky villain that releases toxic fumes when you’re not looking.
- 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.
- 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?
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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?