subject: Change Your Cleaning, Change The World [print this page] If you'd like to be more environmentally friendly, changing the way you clean is one of the easiest things to do. There are many green cleaning ideas as well as healthy products that still leave your home looking spick-and-span. If you want to be more green, consider the following tips about how you clean.
Buy environmentally-friendly cleaners. Many cleaners are petroleum-based, but a healthy alternative is to find chemical-free cleaners made from renewable resources like plants. Birch bark or palm kernel oil are just a couple of natural resources that are commonly found in environmentally-friendly cleaners. You can find products that are pH-neutral as well as scented or fragrance free. You know that these natural cleaners won't harm you or damage your home's surfaces.
Ensure the best air quality at home. The fact that many cleaners have warnings about skin contact is a testament to the potency of many of the chemicals you are letting into your air. This does not even take into account the natural pollutants that travel freely through the air. The chemicals in many aerosol air fresheners or candles can exacerbate the problems. As an alternative you could choose natural air sprays or even boil a pot of some of your favorite spices or herbs. Baking soda is also a healthy and well-trusted option for getting rid of unpleasant odors. Plants can make excellent natural air filters. Look for ones with broad green leaves.
Keep your floors thoroughly clean. Heavy foot traffic can make it difficult to get clean floors. The toxins and pollutants that can be tracked on the bottom of shoes can create an unhealthy environment as well as making a mess. A good way to help the problem is to have quality doormats at your doors. Having a no-shoe policy in your home is an even better idea, or designate some shoes for only indoor use.
There are many other green cleaning tips that can make a big difference in your home and for your health. You can also use less antibacterial cleaners or none at all. Warm water and soap often work just as well. There is an abundance of eco-friendly information out there if you want to learn and do more.
By taking a few simple steps you can begin to live a greener lifestyle. It's up to you how green to make it. Green cleaning simply means using more of what nature has to offer to clean your home rather than harsh synthetic chemicals. It's easy to start being better to yourself, your home and the environment.
