Vinegar, caustic soda and bicarbonate of soda are all great examples of products your gran would have used to keep her house spick and span. Now we can walk into any shop and stock up on branded detergents and cleaners in ever more complex packaging, and many of these old-fashioned tips and tricks have fallen by the wayside.
But some cleaning brands have stood the test of time, and their formula – and packaging – has barely changed for decades. In this article, we’ll look at five classic cleaning products that are still worthy of a place in our kitchen cupboards today.
Jeyes Fluid Solution
Jeyes Fluid was patented in 1877 and still has a loyal following today. Catering professionals and cleaners rely on it for its disinfectant properties, mainly for outdoor use. The product has been used for a variety of purposes over more than a century, from cleaning drains to treating scarlet fever. In modern times, it’s notable for being able to destroy the H5N1 bird flu virus, MRSA and HIV.
Stardrops
Stardrops has been part of the British cleaner’s arsenal since the 1940s, and it’s one of the most affordable and versatile brands on the market. This handy cleaning product can be used in the dishwasher, to remove stains, for washing up and when doing the laundry (mixed with soda crystals). It’s a great emergency cleaner to have in the cupboard, but you could save cash by using it for everyday cleaning jobs; it’s even good for glass and floors. Stardrops even has an additive, Bitrex, to dissuade children and animals from drinking it.
Fuller’s Earth Cat Litter
Sometimes, tough grime is best removed with a clever, old-fashioned product. Cat litter is amazing for soaking up oil spills on driveways: cover the oil spill in a generous layer of cat litter, then leave for at least 12 hours before scooping up. Don’t attempt to clean up the oil spill if it rains, obviously, otherwise you’ll end up with a soggy clump of litter and a patch of oil underneath.
Borax
Sodium tetraborate decahydrate – or Borax, for short – is a chemical that’s used in a range of cleaning products. It can also be used around the house for everything from flea and woodworm prevention to cleaning the bath. If you’re arachnophobic, you’ll be pleased to know that strategically placed Borax will deter spiders from entering your home.
Denture Tablets
When it comes to removing stains, effervescent denture tablets can work wonders. Drop one into the loo at night to clean it, or crack one in half and pop into a mug of water to remove tea and coffee stains. You can also use denture tablets to clean slim vases and greasy pans. If your fridge needs refreshing, reach for the toothpaste instead: a small blob rubbed into gritty, grimy marks will gently scour away the dirt.
Clean and Go Green
Many modern cleaning products contain a high number of chemical additives. For a greener option, switch modern brands for some old fashioned products that are less likely to pollute. And to be totally eco-friendly, try using concoctions made from lemon juice, tea tree oil and vinegar to keep your home clean and sparkly. It’ll save you money, too.
