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A Healthier Home

Start the New Year right by swapping out old cleaning products for clean alternatives

Out with the old, in with the new – and non-toxic. Aly Kirkpatrick shares simple DIYs to create three clean products to freshen up your home, from an all-purpose cleaner, to a handcrafted laundry detergent and a refreshing room spray. Aly says she easily finds the ingredients for each product on Amazon or at Target. 

All-Purpose Cleaner: Great for kitchens and bathrooms, this cleaner doesn’t contain the ingredients found in traditional cleaners that have been shown harmful to respiratory and endocrine systems. Simply combine 16 ounces of water and 1 ounce of Castile soap (Aly’s favorite is the lavender scent) in a 24-ounce glass spray bottle and shake to mix. 

Laundry Detergent: This recipe lasts Aly’s family of four anywhere from five to six months, using it for multiple loads per week. In a large container, stir together 1½ cups washing soda, 1½ cups baking soda, ½ cup Epsom salt and 10 drops of essential oil. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons per load, depending on soil level. 

Room Spray: Customize this alternative to traditional room spray with your favorite scents. In a 4-ounce glass spray bottle, fill it ¼ of the way with witch hazel. Add 10 to 20 drops of essential oils – Aly likes a combination of lemon, lavender and orange. Fill the rest of the bottle with water and shake to mix.

Aly Kirkpatrick is an East Valley photographer, wife and mother of two. She’s passionate about helping people make affordable and safer product switches. Learn more on Aly’s Instagram @aly_kirk and @alykirkphoto.