subject: It's Great to Be Green [print this page] It's Great to Be Green It's Great to Be Green
If you'd like to be more environmentally friendly, changing the way you clean is one of the easiest things to do. You don't even have to sacrifice a thorough clean just because you're cleaning with gentler products. The ideas that follow are simple but helpful and are only a few of the many things you can do. Start using green cleaners. Cleaners made from renewable resources like tree bark and plants are not toxic and are biodegradable unlike many other harsh cleaning solutions. Most eco-friendly cleaners contain one or more plant-based essential oils. Whether you want a cleaner that is scented, fragrance free or pH-neutral, you can choose from many options. You can be assured that these products are non-toxic and won't damage your home. It's also important to have good quality air. Typical cleaners can emit harsh chemicals and scents that bother your eyes, sinuses or skin. This does not even take into account the natural pollutants that travel freely through the air. Typical air freshening methods can sometimes do more harm than good. A good solution is to use natural air sprays or boil a pot of cinnamon or herbs to spread a healthy, fresh aroma. Baking soda is a very good option. Sprinkle it on carpet as you vacuum to create a very fresh, crisp smell. For filtering your air, consider growing a broad green leaf plant or Peace Lilies indoors. Keep toxic substances off your floors and out of your home. In homes with a lot of foot traffic, it's hard to keep floors clean for long. You may not even realize the number of chemicals and unhealthy substances that can be tracked into a home. You should definitely have good quality doormats at all the used doors. Having a no-shoe policy in your home is an even better idea, or designate some shoes for only indoor use. There are numerous other ways that you can go green at home. Limiting your use of antibacterial cleaners and getting rid of toxic cleaners safely are just a couple of ways to make a difference. There is an abundance of eco-friendly information out there if you want to learn and do more. It's your choice of how eco-friendly you want to live, but it's all beneficial and easy to find and understand. By limiting the bad substances that enter your home and cleaning with the good ones, you're making your home a better environment. It's easy to start being better to yourself, your home and the environment.