Commercial chemicals are excellent for lifting tough stains, but they’re also packed with harsh chemicals.

You’ve probably already heard that common household cleaners like bleach and air fresheners can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation. Unfortunately, it can seem overwhelming to find substitutes (that actually work) for your favourite cleaning products. To help homemakers like you keep your living space clean without the use of harsh chemicals, we collected a list of natural floor cleaners for vinyl floors from around the web.

Natural Floor Cleaners for Vinyl Flooring

But first, let’s delve into the details of why commercial cleaners are bad for your health.

Are commercial household cleaners really a big deal?

An EWG study researched hundreds of household cleaning products, finding that 53% contained chemicals such as carcinogens and other harmful chemicals.

Research released by the Lung Association states that cleaning supplies can (and often do) contain VOC’s that cause respiratory issues such as worsened asthma, wheezing, and throat irritation. Just a few of the items listed to contain VOC’s include: oven cleaners, furniture polish, rug cleaners, bleach, air fresheners, and beauty sprays.

Although these commercial cleaners have become a common household cleaning product it’s safe to say that they could be replaced with a natural alternative instead.

If you’re concerned about the indoor air quality in your home, take a look at these four natural floor cleaning recipes that exclude harsh chemicals:

The House Wife How To’s”

According to reviews, this affordable floor cleaner is said to leave floors shining without damaging the material. Crafted out of simple ingredients like water, white vinegar, and dish soap, this home-made floor cleaner omits the hash ingredients found in traditional commercial cleaners without losing its competitive edge.

Lisa Kaplan Gordon’s Home Made Floor Cleaner

If you need proof that all natural cleaners work, Lisa Kaplan Gordon gives you proof by comparing her four-ingredient mix against other types of all-natural cleaners. Her simple recipe is made up of white vinegar, washing soda, liquid dish soap, and hot tap water. Simple, but powerful!

Home Made for Elle’s “Really Dirty” Floor Cleaner

Sometimes, floors get really dirty – which is why we love this home-made cleaner that calls out an optional scoop of borax to treat stubborn stains. Without the Borax, this floor cleaner is a mix of essential oils, hot water, and white vinegar.

Essential Oils Floor Cleaner by The Paleo Mama

Love all-natural floor cleaners and the smell of essential oils? Then this floor cleaner combination is for you! Essential oils have been known for their cleansing abilities for centuries, and many families still prefer to use them instead of commercial cleaners. In this excellent post by The Paleo Mama, you’ll learn which essential oils are best to clean with, including disinfecting and bug-deterring options.

It may take a while to get used to the thought of “mixing” your own floor cleaner, but over time you’ll realise it’s both a cheaper and healthier option. If you’re already using natural cleaners for the vinyl flooring in your home, let us know what you think of the alternative in the comments below!