What’s a non-toxic cleaner for stainless-steel appliances like my fridge?

Eileen, Ottawa

Did you know Canadians spend more than $275 million a year on household cleaning products?

We buy these products to fight germs, streaks, stains and odours to keep our homes sparkling clean. But despite what the TV commercials tell us, we don’t need a separate stainless steel cleaner, floor cleaner, tub and tile cleaner and counter cleaner. Save your money and simplify!

Choose the smallest number of eco-friendly, multi-purpose products that will help achieve your household cleaning goals.

Speaking of simple, the best way to clean streaks, smears and smudges from stainless-steel appliances is to use food-grade cleaning ingredients — white vinegar and olive oil.

Step one: dampen a rag with plain olive oil. Then, wipe the surface of your stainless steel fridge. Step two: flip the same rag over and pour enough white vinegar to dampen. Now, wipe the stainless steel surface a second time — don’t forget the fridge door handle.

Olive oil is great for lifting dirt. It also makes a great floor and furniture polish when you add a splash of lemon juice and a squirt of vinegar. And white vinegar will cut grease, deodorize and disinfect.

In the midst of a home-cleaning product detox? Take our survey at davidsuzuki.org/whatsinside and be entered to win fabulous prizes. We all win when we make eco-friendlier choices.

For more Queen of Green visit davidsuzuki.org/greenliving