Here are cleaning ideas that have worked for me (but be aware that people with MCS vary in what they can handle):
- Laundry: we use baking soda or vinegar–yup, that’s it!! I was sure the laundry would come out smelling like an armpit, but it doesn’t!! It actually seems to clean much better than any kind of detergent. For our large loads, we use about 3/4 c. of baking soda OR a glug or two of vinegar. (Don’t use both or they will kind of “cancel” each other out.) This will NOT work for stains, though. Please let me know if you find anything petrochemical-free good for various stains! 🙂 For stubborn scents (from detergent on used clothing, or scents picked up from errands), we soak things in peppermint tea. It really seems to help a lot!!
- Body/hand soap: Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps Pure-Castile Soap seems to be a very good product for my extreme sensitivities. I like the orange best.
- Shampoo: I have not found any shampoos that really work for me, so I use Dr. Bronner’s for shampoo, too.
- Hair rinse: diluted vinegar
- Dishes: baking soda in dishwasher cup, after wash cycle–add vinegar to rinse. Vinegar can wear down washer parts, but we don’t really have a choice. Without it, minerals build up on dishes, and these “rough” minerals can hold on to bacteria. Hand-wash dishes: baking soda and Castile soap. For more info, click here
- General kitchen cleaning: baking soda paste for stove-top; vinegar for counters, cutting boards, etc.
- General bathroom cleaning: soak paper towels (or toilet paper, for inside toilet) with vinegar. Stick to surfaces and let sit for 30 – 60 minutes. Sprinkle baking soda on. Use dry paper towel to scrub it all. Then rinse.
- Windows: vinegar (we ought to buy stock in vinegar!)
- Hard-surface Floors: plain hot water
