subject: Home Cleaning Is Better When It's Green [print this page] Among all the things going green, cleaning is definitely one of the best for you and the environment. Even though you're cleaning with less harmful products you can still clean your home to a spotless shine. If you want to be more green, consider the following tips about how you clean.
Use green cleaning products. Most cleaning solutions are petroleum-based. Instead buy products made from renewable, non-toxic resources. Green cleaners are often derived from plants and contain essential oils like palm kernel or coconut oil. For allergy sufferers or people with sensitive senses, you can find many fragrance free cleaners. You know that these natural cleaners won't harm you or damage your home's surfaces.
Improve the air in your home. The chemicals from cleaning products can linger in the air and irritate your senses. Another airborne pollutant is the many allergens like dust and dander that linger in the air. Typical air fresheners like sprays and candles can sometimes make problems worse. 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 an effective odor-eliminator for refrigerators as well as on carpets when vacuuming. If you want an air filter, Peace Lilies are pretty to look at as well as being good air purifiers. So are other plants with broad green leaves.
Keep your floors thoroughly clean. It's often most difficult to keep your floors clean. 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 indoor policy is a good way to help the situation.
These are only a small sample of the green cleaning ideas for your home. Substituting soap and water for antibacterial cleaners and disposing of harsh cleaners properly can be a good start for more green cleaning. Seek out some green websites and articles if you want to learn more.
No matter how green you are or want to be, there are many steps you can take to make a difference in your life. Green cleaning begins with knowing what substances are being brought into your home. With a little work your home can be green and clean.
