General Safety Guidelines
Always Test First
Before using any cleaning solution on a surface, test it on a small, hidden area. Wait a few minutes and check for discoloration, damage, or adverse reactions.
Label Everything
Clearly label all homemade cleaning products with their ingredients, date made, and intended use. Never store in food containers.
Ventilation
Use cleaning products in well-ventilated areas. Open windows and doors, especially when using vinegar or other strong-smelling solutions.
Protective Equipment
Wear gloves when using cleaning solutions, especially those with borax or essential oils. Protect eyes when spraying overhead.
Ingredient-Specific Safety
Vinegar
- Never mix with bleach - creates toxic chlorine gas
- Avoid on natural stone - damages marble, granite, limestone
- Don't use on egg or milk stains - sets the protein
- Keep away from eyes - rinse immediately if contact occurs
Baking Soda
- Generally very safe - one of the safest cleaning ingredients
- Rinse thoroughly - can leave white residue
- May scratch delicate surfaces - test first on sensitive materials
Essential Oils
- Toxic to pets - especially cats (tea tree, peppermint, citrus)
- Can cause skin irritation - always dilute, never apply directly
- Keep away from children - toxic if ingested
- May damage plastics - use glass containers when possible
Hydrogen Peroxide
- Bleaching agent - will lighten fabrics and surfaces
- Light sensitive - store in dark container, loses potency
- Never mix with vinegar - creates peracetic acid
- Check concentration - use 3% household grade only
Borax
- Keep away from children and pets - toxic if ingested
- Wear gloves - can irritate skin with prolonged contact
- Don't use on food surfaces - not food safe
- Store securely - in sealed, labeled container
Castile Soap
- Never mix with vinegar - creates greasy, ineffective residue
- Dilute properly - concentrated soap can leave film
- Generally very safe - gentle and biodegradable
Storage Guidelines
Container Selection
- Use glass spray bottles for solutions with essential oils
- Dark containers protect light-sensitive ingredients
- Never reuse food containers for cleaning products
- Ensure caps seal properly to prevent spills
Storage Location
- Keep in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Store out of reach of children and pets
- Keep away from heat sources
- Don't store near food or beverages
Shelf Life
- Vinegar solutions: 1-2 months
- Hydrogen peroxide solutions: Use immediately, 1 week max
- Castile soap solutions: 1-2 months
- Essential oil blends: 6-12 months
Pet Safety
What to Do If...
Skin Contact
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Eye Contact
Flush eyes with clean water for at least 15-20 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention, especially for essential oils or hydrogen peroxide.
Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting. Drink water to dilute. Call Poison Control immediately: 1-800-222-1222 (US). Seek emergency medical help.
Toxic Fume Exposure
Move to fresh air immediately. Open windows and doors. If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical attention. Call 911 if severe.
Surface Compatibility Quick Reference
| Surface | Safe Cleaners | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Marble/Granite | Dish soap + water, pH-neutral cleaners | Vinegar, lemon, acidic cleaners |
| Hardwood Floors | Damp mop with diluted castile soap | Excess water, vinegar (long-term) |
| Stainless Steel | Vinegar, olive oil for shine | Abrasive scrubbers, chlorine bleach |
| Glass | Vinegar + water, rubbing alcohol | Soap (causes streaks) |
| Ceramic Tile | Vinegar, baking soda, most cleaners | Nothing specific - very durable |
| Cast Iron | Salt scrub, minimal water | Soap (removes seasoning), soaking |