Green cleaning is healthier for your and better for the planet, reports Jill Schoff, author of "Green Up Your Cleanup." Traditional cleaners contain harmful chemicals that could negatively effect your health and can damage the environment. It may seem difficult to replace your traditional cleaners with green alternatives, but there are many simple ways to make the switch. The result will be a healthier home and a safer environment.
Use Natural Cleaning Supplies
Many products you probably already have on hand in your home can clean just as effectively as any traditional cleaner on the market. Candita Clayton and Bryna Rene, authors of "Clean Your Home Healthy: Green Cleaning Made Easy," suggest using items such as hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda for a healthy and clean home. White vinegar will get rid of mildew and will sanitize and deodorize any surface in kitchens and bathrooms. Lemon juice is an effective way to get rid of soap scum and will also shine brass or copper sinks. Hydrogen peroxide kills germs and leaves most surfaces shiny and clean. Baking soda removes stains on clothes and can get rid of baked on food. Clayton and Rene encourage natural cleaning supplies because they do not leave harmful residues behind, and they do not harm the environment.
Use Reusable Cleaning Rags
There are many disposable cleaning wipes on the market that make cleaning simple and quick, but throwing away a wipe each time you clean fills landfills and exposes the environment to toxic chemicals. Earth911, a website dedicated to preserving the planet, recommends using reusable rags when cleaning to save money and the environment. Clean towels and rags can be used many times before they are thrown away, so you do not have to buy as many cleaning products. Reusing rags also prevents a build up of unnecessary waste, says Earth911.
Buy Products With A Good Reputation
In addition to natural cleaning products, there are many products that claim to be all natural and not harmful to the environment. Seeking out cleaning supplies made by companies dedicated to reducing their impact on the environment will ensure that you are using products that are safe for you and safe for the environment, says Schoff. You can generally trust companies who have clearly shown their dedication to protecting the environment, reports Schoff, and purchasing cleaning supplies from these companies will help you rest assured that your are taking care of your home and your planet.
References
- "Green Up Your Cleanup"; Jill Schoff; 2008
- "Clean Your Home Healthy: Green Cleaning Made Easy"; Candita Clayton and Bryna René; 2008
- Earth911: 8 Ways to Green Your Cleaning
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