Having clean counters in the hot weather is important, as bacteria grows quickly in the heat, along with their accompanying odors. Cleaning the counters with synthetic chemical ingredients adds new contaminants, and the goal of having a kitchen with fresh, clean air is hijacked. On the other hand, cleaning the counters with nontoxic ingredients insures clean counters and indoor air quality.

Why not have a kitchen with the freshest, cleanest, air? Try these safe and effective counter cleaners:

Countertop Cleaner - Spray
1/2 tsp. washing soda
a dab of liquid soap
2 cups hot tap water
Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake until
the washing soda has dissolved. Apply and wipe off with
a sponge or rag.

Countertop Cleaner - Soft Scrub
Simply pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda into a bowl, and add
enough liquid detergent to make a texture like frosting. Scoop the
mixture onto a sponge, and wash the surface. This is the perfect recipe
for cleaning the bathtub because it rinses easily and doesn’t leave grit.

Vinegar Deodorizer.
Keep a clean spray bottle filled with straight 5 percent vinegar in your kitchen
near your cutting board, and in your bathroom, and use them for cleaning. I
often spray the vinegar on our cutting board before going to bed at night, and
don’t even rinse, but let it set overnight. The smell of vinegar dissipates within
a few hours. Straight vinegar is also great for cleaning the toilet rim. Just spray
it on and wipe off.