The crew at Duross & Langel can teach you how to make natural cleaning supplies.Give your under-the-sink space a makeover. DIY cleaning products can be a snap to whip up, and they’ll make your house sparkly and smelling fresh — without any ammonia or bleach.“This is one of those no brainers,” says Steve Duross of Duross & Langel on 117 S. 13th St. “It’s incredibly simple to do, and it’s a healthy, natural way to clean your home.”Duross & Langel doesn’t carry household cleaners — the store stocks its shelves with handmade soaps, lotions and candles. But Duross and store manager Sarah Evancho still like to experiment with cleaners and other DIY products in the upstairs kitchen (usually home to the soap-making). If it can be described as “pure,” “natural” or “earth-friendly,” they’re into it.“People are getting more savvy about chemicals — they want simpler products. And people love the idea of brewing up their own stuff,” Duross says.All-natural cleaning products don’t have a long shelf life, but mixing up enough for a cleaning session or two is quick. “For furniture polish, for example, you take vinegar, olive oil and fresh orange peels, throw everything in a spray bottle and shake it up,” Duross says. “There aren’t a lot of moving parts.”Three easy recipesAll-purpose cleaner:Ingredients:Sage, or another essential oil or herb (For buying essential oils, Duross recommends NewDirectionsAromatics.com. They’re not cheap, he warns, but since you’re only using a few drops at a time, they last.)1 part warm water1 part vinegar1/2 part alcohol1 drop dish soapPreparation:Muddle or twist herbs into a spray bottle. Add liquids. Shake and start to clear away the bad juju.Furniture polish:Ingredients:Orange essential oil and a few orange peels1/4 cup vinegarAbout a tablespoon of olive oilPreparation:Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake. Use.Bathroom scrub:Ingredients:Six drops of essential oil, such as citrus, eucalyptus or mint1 cup borax1/2 cup baking soda1/2 cup washing soda1/4 cup coarse sea saltPreparation:Combine all ingredients in a jar. Shake. Use on tub, tiles, sink and toilet bowl.Earth Day open houseDuross & Langel is hosting a “how to” open houseApril 22. Drop in anytime5:30-7 p.m.for an informal demo on making natural, chemical-free cleaning products.
