Breath of Clean Air

Brand-new baby Ian, less than 1 hour old

Tomorrow I am hosting a fundraiser Tastefully Simple party, benefiting the local International Cesarean Awareness Network group (ICAN). My good friend Angela and I co-founded the chapter in March 2008. After Ian's victorious VBAC arrival, I wanted to reach out to other mothers who wanted to prevent an unnecessary cesarean, were recovering from cesareans, or planning a VBAC. It was an honor to serve families in that way. After serving in that leadership role for 2 years, I stepped down and became a "regular" person in the organization.

In preparation for the party I am frantically cleaning my house. Have you ever heard that phrase "smells like a clean house?" It conjurers up images of commercial cleaner fragrance permeating the house to me. You know, Pine Sol in the kitchen, Windex on the glass, Endust spray coating the furniture. I used to think that this was a sign of a job well done.

Indoor pollution is often worse than outdoor pollution. A contributing factor are the very products purchased used to "clean". Simple homemade cleansers can be as effective as costly prepared products and healthier for the environment. Since we are part of the environment they are better for us too! A plus for mothers: we can feel comfortable with our children 'helping' when we use eco-friendly cleansers.

Our tried and true bathroom cleanser is Homemade Soft Cleanser. It's cheap and EASY to make.

Ingredients:
1/2 Cup baking soda
2 T vegetable glycerin (if you want to store leftovers)
hand dish-washing detergent - enough to make a creamy, frosting-like consistency
How-To:
1. Mix together all ingredients. Note: If you think the cleanser is too runny after adding the detergent more baking soda can be added.
2. Store in a labeled glass jar. I have found wide-mouth salsa jars work well.
To Use:
1. Put a small amount onto a wet rag or sponge. Wipe onto surface to be cleaned. It works well for sinks, toilets or bathtubs.
2. Rinse out rag and wipe over area to remove residue.
Note: If you are uncertain about the cleanser on the surface to be cleaned, please do a test spot first. I cannot be responsible for any damage.

Anticancer Note: Avoid cleaning products with alkylphoneols. Instead use green or Ecolabel producdts. They can also be replaced with homemade cleansers using white vinegar, baking soda or white soap.