6 Things That Are Naturally Antibacterial to Safely Disinfect Your Home

Disinfecting your home with natural, non-toxic cleaners may sound like an overwhelming task, but it’s actually surprisingly simple. In fact, the majority of naturally antibacterial disinfectants can be found right in your kitchen and at a fraction of the cost of those harsh chemical cleaners. Natural cleaners are not only better for your health but are safer for children, animals, and the environment. Keep your home spick-and-span with these hardworking ingredients found right in your pantry.

 White Vinegar

Made from acetic acid and water, white vinegar is a power cleaner—easily cutting through grease and removing mildew, odors, stains, and wax buildup. Thanks to its high acidity, white vinegar reduces surface bacteria, making it a safe alternative to bleach. In a 1994 study, vinegar was found to reduce the amount of bacteria on a hard surface, although it was less effective than commercial cleaners. Vinegar will work for those who value a safe cleaning method and want to rid their homes of harmful chemicals, but it won’t leave surfaces completely bacteria-free.

Vodka

Because most vodka is 80 proof, or 40 percent alcohol by volume, it can be used as a disinfectant to remove mold and mildew. Like vinegar, vodka degreases, removes stains, shines fixtures, and refreshes fabric—but without the lingering sour odor. For the most antibacterial power, look for 100-proof vodka (as most store-bought hand sanitizers contain at least 60 percent alcohol), and let it sit for a few minutes so the alcohol can do its job.

Lemon

The citric acid in lemons works wonderfully on alkaline stains like soap scum found in bathrooms and kitchens. Lemons can also be used to sanitize non-porous surfaces and shine oxidized metal (hint: use it to make old copper pots and pans sparkle). In a study, lemon also worked to reduce bacteria on hard surfaces, but was less effective than both vinegar and commercial cleaners. Although lemon is less effective than vinegar, it certainly wins in the scent department.

Hydrogen Peroxide

If you ever got a cut on the playground as a kid, you may already know the familiar sting of hydrogen peroxide in action. Since the 1920s, hydrogen peroxide has been used as an antiseptic on cuts because of its abilities to kill bacteria by breaking down cell walls. It can also be used to kill mold and remove stains on white clothing. Caution should be taken when cleaning with hydrogen peroxide, as it will bleach colorful fibers and etch the surface of stone over time.

Essential Oils

Versatile and great smelling, essential oils have a wide range of medicinal and healing properties. It comes as no surprise that they are also quite powerful agents against bacteria and fungus. When added to vodka or a solution of soap and water, some essential oils can enhance the cleaning properties, helping rid your home of mold, mildew, and musty smells. There are a bunch of bacteria-fighting essential oils to choose from, particularly tea tree, citronella, geranium, lemongrass, orange, and patchouli. Currently, scientists are still studying essential oils’ bacteria-fighting abilities, including its  potential use as an antibiotic.

Steam

The simple combination of water and heat makes for the ultimate economical and chemical-free disinfectant. When heated to at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit, steam not only eliminates tough stuck-on stains and grease, but can also sanitize both hard and soft surfaces. While steaming may be a slower process—sometimes taking up to 20 seconds to fully sanitize one area—If used properly, steam is capable of removing bacteria, germs, dust mites, and other pathogens.

Honorable Mention: Castile Soap

With its roots in the Castile region of Spain, Castile soap, once made from olive oil, is now often made from a blend of vegetable oils. Quick to lather, a drop of Castile soap is all that’s needed to get dishes, bathtubs, or just about any surface squeaky clean. While the soap generally isn’t antibacterial on its own, a Dr. recommends a homemade solution that adds tea tree essential oil to make your own naturally bacteria-fighting cleanser.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.     

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

 

 

6 Things That Are Naturally Antibacterial to Safely Disinfect Your Home

Disinfecting your home with natural, non-toxic cleaners may sound like an overwhelming task, but it’s actually surprisingly simple. In fact, the majority of naturally antibacterial disinfectants can be found right in your kitchen and at a fraction of the cost of those harsh chemical cleaners. Natural cleaners are not only better for your health but are safer for children, animals, and the environment. Keep your home spick-and-span with these hardworking ingredients found right in your pantry.

1. White Vinegar
Made from acetic acid and water, white vinegar is a power cleaner—easily cutting through grease and removing mildew, odors, stains, and wax buildup. Thanks to its high acidity, white vinegar reduces surface bacteria, making it a safe alternative to bleach. In a 1994 study by the Journal of Environmental Health, vinegar was found to reduce the amount of bacteria on a hard surface, although it was less effective than commercial cleaners. Vinegar will work for those who value a safe cleaning method and want to rid their homes of harmful chemicals, but it won’t leave surfaces completely bacteria-free.

2. Vodka
Because most vodka is 80 proof, or 40 percent alcohol by volume, it can be used as a disinfectant to remove mold and mildew. Like vinegar, vodka degreases, removes stains, shines fixtures, and refreshes fabric—but without the lingering sour odor. For the most antibacterial power, look for 100-proof vodka (as most store-bought hand sanitizers contain at least 60 percent alcohol), and let it sit for a few minutes so the alcohol can do its job.

3. Lemon
The citric acid in lemons works wonderfully on alkaline stains like soap scum found in bathrooms and kitchens. Lemons can also be used to sanitize non-porous surfaces and shine oxidized metal (hint: use it to make old copper pots and pans sparkle). In the same study mentioned above, lemon also worked to reduce bacteria on hard surfaces, but was less effective than both vinegar and commercial cleaners. Although lemon is less effective than vinegar, it certainly wins in the scent department.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide
If you ever got a cut on the playground as a kid, you may already know the familiar sting of hydrogen peroxide in action. Since the 1920s, hydrogen peroxide has been used as an antiseptic on cuts because of its abilities to kill bacteria by breaking down cell walls. It can also be used to kill mold and remove stains on white clothing. Caution should be taken when cleaning with hydrogen peroxide, as it will bleach colorful fibers and etch the surface of stone over time.  

5. Essential Oils
Versatile and great smelling, essential oils have a wide range of medicinal and healing properties. It comes as no surprise that they are also quite powerful agents against bacteria and fungus. When added to vodka or a solution of soap and water, some essential oils can enhance the cleaning properties, helping rid your home of mold, mildew, and musty smells. There are a bunch of bacteria-fighting essential oils to choose from, particularly tea tree, citronella, geranium, lemongrass, orange, and patchouli. Currently, scientists are still studying essential oils’ bacteria-fighting abilities, including its potential use as an antibiotic.

6. SteamThe simple combination of water and heat makes for the ultimate economical and chemical-free disinfectant. When heated to at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit, steam not only eliminates tough stuck-on stains and grease, but can also sanitize both hard and soft surfaces. While steaming may be a slower process—sometimes taking up to 20 seconds to fully sanitize one area—If used properly, steam is capable of removing bacteria, germs, dust mites, and other pathogens.

7. Honorable Mention: Castile Soap
With its roots in the Castile region of Spain, Castile soap, once made from olive oil, is now often made from a blend of vegetable oils. Quick to lather, a drop of Castile soap is all that’s needed to get dishes, bathtubs, or just about any surface squeaky clean. While the soap generally isn’t antibacterial on its own, Dr. Bronner’s recommends a homemade solution that adds tea tree essential oil to make your own naturally bacteria-fighting cleanser.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.     

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

Removing a Painful Splinter Has Never Been Simpler!

Splinters are small fragments of metal, glass, or wood that are embedded in your skin. They can be very painful and need to be dealt with as quickly as possible in order to relieve discomfort and the possibility of infection. The majority of us try to dig the splinter out using a needle or some tweezers, but this is not a safe method as it can significantly increase the risk of infection. There are loads of other safe and simple home remedies that make it easier to remove splinters without added complications.

Here are the top 10 home remedies to remove splinters safely and without pain:

1. Duct Tape

This is one of the easiest methods to remove a splinter. This simple remedy works best when some of the splinter is still sticking out of the skin. It will not work for fully embedded splinters.

Method

1. Use lukewarm water and soap to wash the skin surrounding the splinter, and allow it to dry.

2. Place a piece of duct tape over it.

3. Gently rub over the top of the tape with your fingertip.

4. Wait 5 minutes, then pull the tape off in one motion. The splinter will come out with the tape.

5. Finish by cleaning the area again with some lukewarm water.

2. White Vinegar

White vinegar is another very effective home remedy for splinters as the acidity of the vinegar will cause the splinter to break through the surface of the skin, making it easier to pull out with some tweezers.

​Method

1. Pour some white vinegar into a small bowl.

2. Soak the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Check whether the splinter has risen out of your skin. If so, pull it out using some tweezers. If not, continue to soak the area until it does so.

4. After the splinter has been removed, rinse the area with lukewarm water.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is good for those splinters that are difficult to see, as well as those that are deeply embedded in the skin. Baking soda helps to reduce pain and pushes the splinter to the surface, so it is easier to pull out.

Method

1. Mix water and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda to form a thick paste.

2. Spread this paste onto a bandage and place the bandage over the affected area.

3. After 24 hours, take the bandage off.

4. If the splinter is visible, pull it out. If not, repeat the above steps and wait another 24 hours.

5. After the splinter has been removed, rinse the skin gently with lukewarm water.

For more uses of baking soda, click here.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide disinfects the area and reduces inflammation so that the splinter is easier to remove.

Method

1. Soak a cotton ball in 3% hydrogen peroxide.

2. Secure the cotton ball on the affected area with tape.

3. Leave it for a few hours.

4. Remove the cotton ball and pull the splinter out with a pair of clean tweezers.

5. Rinse the area with lukewarm water.

5. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt works wonders on deeply lodged splinters as it draws water out of the skin cells, bringing the splinter to the surface.

Method

1. Place a pinch of Epsom salt on a bandage.

2. Place the bandage on the affected area.

3. Leave it there for the whole day.

4. Remove the bandage in the evening.

5. Pull the splinter out using some tweezers.

If you would like to read about other uses of Epsom salt, click here.

6. Banana Peel

Banana peels contain enzymes that will soften the skin and make the splinter move to the surface. Furthermore, its moisturizing and antimicrobial properties will prevent any further infection.

Method

1. Cut a small piece of banana peel.

2. Place the peel (with the white side down) on the affected area, and secure it with some tape.

3. Leave it overnight.

4. The next morning, remove the splinter using some tweezers.

Banana peel also has many other uses, you can read more about them by clicking here.

7. Raw Potato

This remedy works best when the splinter is partially visible, not when it is embedded deep in the skin.

Method

1. Wash a raw potato and cut off a thick slice.

2. Place the potato slice on the splinter, make sure the fleshy part is touching the splinter.

3. Gently press down so that the splinter pierces the potato.

4. Carefully remove the potato slice, along with the splinter.

8. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil will help draw the splinter out, and thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it will also help prevent any infections from occurring.

Method

1. Apply a couple of drops of lavender essential oil to the affected area.

2. Leave it for a few hours.

3. From time to time, check whether the splinter has risen to the skin's surface.

4. Once it has, remove it with a pair of tweezers

9. Honey
Honey encourages the splinter to move toward the surface so it's easier to remove. Furthermore, due to its moisturizing and antiseptic properties, it will sooth the skin and prevent infections.

Method

1. Spread a lot of honey onto the affected area.

2. Place a bandage over it and leave overnight.

3. The next morning, pull the splinter out using some tweezers.

4. After rinsing with some lukewarm water, reapply some more honey to heal the skin.

10. Bread and Milk

This remedy has been used for centuries to remove splinters.

Method

1. Dip some bread in some warm milk.

2. Apply this to the area and secure with a bandage.

3. Leave overnight.

4. Remove the next morning - the splinter should come with it.

5. Clean the affected area with some lukewarm water to prevent infections.

Additional Tips

    Once the splinter has been removed, make sure that the area is cleaned properly to prevent infections.
    Keep the area clean until it is completely healed.
    Don't squeeze a splinter to try to push it to the surface, It could break into tiny pieces and make it even more difficult to remove.
    Use rubbing alcohol to sterilize the tips of the tweezers you are going to use to remove a splinter.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.     

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

Source: top10homeremedies

Various uses of lemon other than cooking

         Cleaning with lemon
1) soap scum- cut a lemon in half and rub fruit side of lemon over soap scum. Rinse and repeat if necessary until soap scum is gone.
2) Cutting boards- cut a lemon in half and sprinkle salt on the cut half. Rub lemon and salt on cutting board to kill germs, wash as usual and allow it to dry.

3) Natural bleach- squeeze the juice of a lemon ( or 1/4-1/2 cup lemon juice) in a gallon of hot water. Add white  and soak for 1-2 hours. Run through the rinse cycle  or wring out and let out in the sun to dry. wash as usual.

4) All purpose cleaner
white vinegar  1/2 cup
juice on 1 lemon
water 2 cups
mix well to combine. Pour in spray bottle, spray, wipe, clean.

5) Grout cleaner-
cream of tartar  1 tsp
lemon juice. combine to make a thin paste, apply to grout and scrub with a small cleaning brush. Rinse.

6) Room freshener
water 4 cups
peel from 1 lemon
cinnamon sticks 3
whole nutmeg
cloves 10-12
dash of vanilla extract
Combine ingredients in a sauce pan and let simmer on low for 1-2 hours.
( feel free to vary ingredients, rosemary and lavender are also great combination with lemon) and to use powdered spices, if you don't have whole spices.

7)Window cleaner
water 4 cups
white vinegar 1/2 cup
lemon juice  1/4 cup
mix to combine. spray on windows, mirrors, wipe clean.

8) Microwave-
put a bowl of water, add the juice of a lemon and the lemon halves in the microwave and run it until the water boils ( 3-5 minutes). Let it remain in the microwave for 15-30 minutes. Wipe clean.

9) Sink cleaner
lemon juice
salt
mix to a paste-like consistency. Apply to metal, scrub and rinse clean.
                   This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.     

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement