7 Tips for spring cleaning
As the days are getting longer and the temperatures rise, many people get the urge to give their house a good clean. Yes, it’s the time for the annual Spring Clean! Instead of deep cleaning your house with chemicals and unsustainable cleaning items, join me for a sustainable spring cleaning with these 7 tips.
Use natural, eco-friendly cleaning products. Many items in your house can be cleaned with natural products, such as lemons, baking powder and vinegar. Some great ways to use lemons are:
sanitize your cutting board rubbing a slice of lemon on it
boil water with lemon juice and pour it down the drain to help eradicate any smells
create a natural air freshener by putting some slices of lemon or lemon peels in a pan with water. Simmer for about an hour and your home will smell super fresh!
make furniture polish by mixing one part lemon juice and two parts olive oil
Use eco-friendly cleaning tools. Most cleaning sponges are made of plastic. As you use the sponge, and it wears, tiny pieces of plastic end up in the drain, and eventually in our oceans. Opt for tools made of natural materials, such as natural sponges and cloth rags (old cut up T-shirts make perfect rags). Use old (bamboo) toothbrushes to scrub tiles.
Empty your fridge. Throw out any expired items and deodorize your fridge by spreading freshly ground coffee evenly on a plate and leave it in the fridge for 24 hours
De-clutter your home. Studies show that a cluttered and messy home contributes to stress levels, so get rid of all and everything that you don’t really need. As Marie Kondo says, if it doesn’t spark joy, then toss it out!
Get rid of old stuff the right way. Don’t just throw everything in your bin but make sure you throw out your stuff at the right place.
bring old clothes (even ripped ones) to a special container, or bring them to a clothing store. Some will give you credit for bringing in old clothes.
call the waste management/recycling department of your municipality to know where to throw out old electronics, paint etc.
Go paperless. Getting your administration up to date is also a type of cleaning. And while you are at it, choose digital invoices and statements to save on paper in any future communications.
Clean your machines. Your can clean your washing machine by letting it run without any clothes in it. Vacuum your dryer on the inside and make sure you don’t forget the filters. These should actually be done a bit more often than once a year. On the topic of dryers, hang your clothes to dry as much as you can and save on your electricity bill. Good for the planet and your wallet!
Although I am all for making your own cleaning products, some of the ingredients come in plastic, such as vinegar. That is why I am a big fan of concentrated eco-friendly cleaning products that you mix with water at home. My favorite brands are:
Kinfill
Kinfill is a collection of refined home care essentials, made in the Netherlands, designed to reduce single-use plastic waste in your daily routine. The products are made from clean ingredients that are kind to you and the planet.
Aer
Aer produces solid formulations that you mix at home with water. Thorough investigation is done to source the best plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, and to make the products contain the bare essentials only.
Plant Therapy
Plant Therapy´s cleaning products are made with essential oils and naturally-derived ingredients to give you a powerful clean.
Dr. Bronner
Dr. Bronner´s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap is concentrated, biodegradable, versatile and effective. Made with organic and certified fair trade ingredients, with this soap you can clean just about anything, from your body, hair & dishes to laundry, the house and your pets.
Supernatural
Supernatural´s cleaners are formulated entirely from plants, minerals, and essential oils. The aromatherapeutic properties replenish your energy and revitalize your senses with these naturally eco-friendly blends of essential oils and all-natural botanicals.
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