Keeping a house not only tidy, but clean and sanitary, can often be a daunting task. Even worse, picking out a cleaner has become overwhelming as brands and types of cleaning solutions are constantly evolving. Natural and DIY cleaners, from shampoos to kitchen sprays, are becoming increasingly popular to replace the typical solutions used in the past. And the ingredients for these homemade cleaners are items typically found in the home, which reduces the cost of keeping a home clean.
As we are a green building, we love to learn about all the ways to protect our environment. Here are a few steps you can take to start cleaning green.
1. Understand the “why.” Do a quick search on potential hazards of home cleaning products and you will be inundated with information. For simplicity and accuracy, we recommend http://www.womensvoices.org/.
“Of the 87,000 chemicals registered for commerce in the United States, only one-tenth has been tested for potential health effects. Of those that have been tested, only a portion has been assessed for reproductive health effects. Although many of these chemicals are integral components in the production of important materials and goods, some may adversely affect human health or the environment. Testing of the chemicals used in the United States is limited by the fact that current legislation—the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which was passed in 1976—assumes that most chemicals are safe unless proven otherwise. These chemicals make up a large majority of the chemicals used in the United States today. Furthermore, many chemicals in common use—such as those in pesticides and many personal care products—are not regulated under TSCA. In addition, as a result of advances in toxicology, including better understanding of low-dose effects, many experts believe that the current regulatory methods for testing toxicity are no longer adequate.” – from Environmental Impacts on Reproductive Health
2. Educate yourself about harmful chemicals that are in everyday cleaners and the natural alternatives that you can use their place. A few of our favorites “green” alternatives include:
Baking Soda – cleans, deodorizes, softens water, scours
Soap – avoid soaps that contain petroleum distillates
Lemon – effective against most household bacteria
White Vinegar – cuts grease, removes mildew, odors, some stains and wax build-up
Washing Soda – cuts grease, removes stains, softens water, cleans wall, tiles, sinks and tubs (Use care, as washing soda can irritate mucous membranes. Do not use on aluminum.)
3. Reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals. Read labels and always use any cleaner as recommended. If using a cleaner with harmful chemicals, protect yourself by wearing proper equipment, including gloves to protect your skin, glasses to shield your eyes, and a mask to prevent you from inhaling chemicals.
4. Make your own simple and economical cleaners. Most cleaners can be created using just a few of the natural ingredients listed above, like vinegar, water, baking soda. For a fresh smell, you just need to add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, like lemon or lavender. Here’s a good general recipe that can be used for many of your cleaning needs:
5. Become an advocate. The best way to be a change in protecting our environment is to share what you know! Through community groups, social circles, and social media sites, it’s easy to spread the word. Pin your favorite recipe on Pinterest. Gift homemade cleaners to new homeowners. Give a speech to your church group on your new cleaning methods.
Do you have a favorite homemade cleaning recipe? Share it with us!