My hippy ways

Have you ever been called a name by a stranger and the only retort you could muster up was a huge smile?

It happened to me today. I was waiting in line to check out at the grocery store and I lugged my two gallons of vinegar on to the counter.

"Wow. That's a lot of vinegar. Is it for a recipe?" said the teenage worker.

"Nope. I use it for cleaning my house and doing laundry."

"Oh. You're one of those 'hippy' people."

It took me a minute to process what she had just called me. But it's true. I have definite hippy ways.

For as long as I can remember I've only ever used vinegar to clean and disinfect hard surfaces. Hell, I even use it to clean my oven and carpet. It's so cheap and versatile. I only use traditional cleaner on the toilets. I recently read that white vinegar is good for reducing static cling in clothes. Now I'm adding it to every rinse cycle.

Speaking of laundry...I also make my own laundry detergent. It's so, so, so simple and way more cost effective than buying it at the store. I just get a box of Borax and a box of Washing Soda, mix them together and add in a bar or two of shredded Fels Neptha soap. In the last batch I made, I added OxiClean and baking soda just for added insurance that Colin's clothes come clean. For stain removal, I use Clorox Green Works. One batch of my homemade detergent lasts roughly 4 to 6 months and costs around $10. You only need one tablespoon of detergent per load but I just use the scoop that comes with the OxiClean for easy measuring.

It makes me feel good to know that I'm helping the environment while also being able to keep my home clean and germ free. I take that 'hippy' label and wear it with pride!