Eco-Friendly Ways to Clean: 5 Ways to Go Green with Your Routine
While chemical-laden cleaning products may effectively do their job, they can have negative consequences for your home and the environment. These products can leave behind harmful toxins on both surfaces and products while increasing greenhouse gas emissions, thus posing a threat to the environment.
Fortunately, adopting eco-friendly habits and maintaining a clean home aren’t mutually exclusive. You can keep your living space in pristine condition by incorporating a few environmentally-friendly practices. In this regard, we have outlined some of the best methods for cleaning and rejuvenating your home without hurting the planet. If you need to clean the exterior surfaces of your home, you can use an industrial pressure washing service.
Transition to Using Reusable Cleaning Materials
Were you aware that the global production of plastic waste is approximately 381 million tonnes annually? Sadly, nearly half of this plastic is disposable, and only a meager 9% has been repurposed. To reduce your environmental footprint, instead of correctly discarding plastic products, opt for reusable solutions in your household such as:
Opt for Glass Bottles Instead of Plastic
Consider changing your disposable cleaning sprays to reusable glass bottles and purchasing low-packaging refills from nearby retailers whenever feasible. This will not only decrease the amount of plastic waste you generate, but it can also be cost-effective. In fact, refills are frequently less expensive than purchasing a new spray bottle.
Switch to Reusable Cleaning Cloths for a Sustainable Cleaning Solution
Instead of using traditional paper towels or tissues that are often unreliable and wasteful, opt for reusable microfiber cloths. These versatile cloths can help you polish surfaces, scrub countertops, banish dust, and much more. Plus, when you’re done using them, simply toss them in the washing machine for easy cleaning and reuse.
Alternatives to Using Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets are often used to freshen up clothing, however, they can have a negative impact on the environment. If you’re looking for an eco-friendlier alternative, consider switching to dryer balls that have been infused with natural oils for a pleasant scent. Essential oils are a cost-effective and easily accessible option.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Natural Homemade Cleaning Agents
Even though there are many eco-friendly cleaning products already available for purchase, you can minimize your environmental impact and lower your expenses by creating your own cleaning solutions in reusable glass bottles. A few excellent components to use are:
Baking Soda
Baking soda, a versatile household remedy, is effective in reducing unpleasant smells in your furniture, carpets, and drapes. The process involves applying the powder and vacuuming it. Additionally, combining vinegar and baking soda creates a potent fizzy cleaner, suitable for cleaning worktops and bathrooms.
White Vinegar
Including white vinegar in your natural cleaning regimen can be highly beneficial, particularly for those seeking eco-friendly alternatives. This versatile ingredient boasts strong stain-removing capability, as well as distinctive antibacterial properties. Diluting white vinegar can also work wonders in minimizing unpleasant smells, thanks to its absorbent and odor-trapping qualities.
Lemons
Lemons possess antiseptic and antibacterial properties, making them ideal for sanitation purposes. To eliminate germs from a cutting board, scrub it with a lemon slice. Alternatively, infuse vinegar with lemon peels to create a refreshingly scented cleaning spray. For heavy-duty cleaning on copper pots and pans, try using halves of lemons dipped in salt as a natural scrubber.
Why You Should Avoid Using Air Fresheners
When cleaning, aerosol air fresheners can cause significant environmental harm. Sprays contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate the soil, air, and water in your surroundings. Additionally, when thrown away, they can have a long-lasting negative impact. To minimize the damage, it is recommended to avoid using air fresheners altogether.
Buying New Houseplants
Houseplants offer benefits beyond enhancing your home’s appearance. They can enhance your emotions, and atmosphere, and eliminate unwanted smells and toxins. Having greenery in your living quarters boosts mood, purifies the air, and provides natural air fresheners.