As flowers and trees begin to blossom and bud, many homeowners feel a sense of renewal. It’s also time to conquer that grime and dust you’ve been ignoring all winter (we’re all guilty!).
It’s time to open up the windows and freshen up your home with a greener spring cleaning routine. Here’s how to get started.
Common Chemicals In Cleaning Products
Often we overlook the chemicals and ingredients that are included in cleaning products. Many cleaning supplies can cause eye irritation, headaches, and throat issues. Even fragrances can cause irritation in people.
Some products can release chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), gases emitted into the air. They can react with other gases and air pollutants once they enter the air. Some of the most commonly known types are benzene, formaldehyde and toluene.
Cleaning supplies with these toxins can be found in:
- Detergents
- Air fresheners
- Chlorine bleach
- Upholstery cleaners
- Furniture and floor polish
- Oven cleaners
9 Tips To Make Spring Cleaning More Eco-Friendly
- Essential oils: If you are looking to add fragrance to your open, opt for essential oils. They can be mixed into sprays and cleaners. Another idea is to place a bowl of baking soda with a few drops of your favourite fragrance on a counter to absorb odours. Lemon, bergamot and lavender are wonderful for spring.
- Create non-toxic cleaners: DIY cleaners are affordable. You can find recipes that target your cleaning needs. Some of the natural ingredients used include white vinegar, liquid castil soap, baking soda, and lemons.
- Limit waste: No matter how much you are ready to lead a zero waste lifestyle or are looking to improve how you reduce, reuse and recycle plastic, implementing ways to reduce waste will make a greener earth. Why not use the new season to start a new plan?
- Read the labels: When you are buying products for the home, check the ingredients for any chemicals you want to stop using. Be mindful that just because something is labelled green, doesn’t mean it is toxin-free.
- Add houseplants: Some houseplants can remove toxins from the air. Check out this list to inspire your indoor green thumb.
- Open the windows: Let that fresh airflow through your home!
- Reuse old fabrics and clothes instead of paper: Stained or damaged clothes can be recycled into cloths for cleaning. Worn out socks are great for dusting.
- Donate, sell, or giveaway: If you haven’t used or worn it in six to nine months, it’s likely time to get rid of it! Sell it online or drop it off with a charity or thrift store.
- Be water wise: Avoid leaving the water running while you are cleaning and make time to repair any leaky faucets or pipes.