I usually use water + lemon juice + vinegar but I have no idea why or any idea if that actually does anything.

  • athairmor@lemmy.world
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    1 day ago

    Depends on the material. I wouldn’t use that on hardwood floors, for example.

    Most of the work is mechanical. Soap/alkalis help with grease/oils by making them mix in water. Dirt particles will stick to oils and go along. Acids will break up minerals, kill fungus/mildew and deodorize.

    • Dirty, greasy areas: alkalis
    • Mineral deposits, areas that have biofilms, mold, mildew: acids

    All purpose: a little of both

    Thrown a couple drops of Dawn* in your mix for an all purpose cleaner. Just be careful where you use it. Leave out the acids for more delicate surfaces.

    *I don’t mean to push certain brands but Dawn is cheap and good at what it does.

    • cattywampas@lemm.ee
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      1 day ago

      Murphy’s Oil Soap for hardwood floors! I know OP asked for homemade, but tbh I don’t think you’re going to make a good homemade soap. Not very easily anyway.

      • athairmor@lemmy.world
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        1 day ago

        Every hardwood floor installer I’ve talked to recommended NOT using Murphys Oil Soap. The reason they gave was that it leaves a thin film which builds up over time. When it comes time to refinish the floor, that film makes it difficult and more expensive.