subject: Home Cleaning: It's Better When It's Green [print this page] Cleaning is one area where it's undoubtedly a good idea to go green. You don't even have to sacrifice a thorough clean just because you're cleaning with gentler products. If youre looking to make a change, here are some tips to get you on the road to going green.
Use cleaners that are eco-friendly. It's easy to find cleaners that are non-toxic, made from plant-based substances and are biodegradable. Most eco-friendly cleaners contain one or more plant-based essential oils. You can find products that are pH-neutral as well as scented or fragrance free. Since these substances come from nature you know they won't damage your family or 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. Another airborne pollutant is the many allergens like dust and dander that linger in the air. Spraying cans of air freshener simply adds to the chemical problem. 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.
Clean floors mean less harmful chemicals indoors. Heavy foot traffic can make it difficult to get clean floors. Not only does foot traffic bring in dirt, but it also brings outdoor pollutants and toxins into your home. A quality doormat can help get rid of some of the unwanted substances. If you make your home a shoe-free zone, that's an even better way to deal with the problem.
Environmentally-friendly cleaning at home can begin with some of these ideas, but they certainly aren't the only ones. Limiting your use of antibacterial cleaners and getting rid of toxic cleaners safely are just a couple of ways to make a difference. If you want to do more green cleaning, there are a number of helpful resources online.
There are many simple solutions that you can use in your green lifestyle. Green cleaning simply means using more of what nature has to offer to clean your home rather than harsh synthetic chemicals. It only takes a bit of work to make your home clean and more green.
