GREEN CLEANING TIPS
Here are 15 green cleaning tips to help you maintain a clean and eco-friendly home
Use natural all-purpose cleaners​
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Switching to natural all-purpose cleaners is a great first step. Ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can tackle various cleaning tasks without the need for harsh chemicals. For example, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle for a versatile cleaner that works on countertops, windows, and more. Add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.
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Embrace microfibre cloths
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Microfibre cloths are a sustainable alternative to disposable cleaning wipes. They trap dust, dirt, and bacteria effectively, often requiring only water. These cloths are durable and can be washed and reused hundreds of times, reducing waste and saving money.
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Opt for steam cleaning​
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Steam cleaning uses the power of heated water to sanitize and deep clean surfaces without chemicals. It's effective on floors, upholstery, and even kitchen appliances. Steam cleaning eliminates bacteria, dust mites, and allergens, making it a healthy choice for your home.
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Use essential oils
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Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and citrus not only add a natural fragrance to your home but also have antimicrobial properties. Add a few drops to your homemade cleaners for an extra boost in cleaning power and a fresh scent.
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Use eco-friendly cleaning products​
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When buying cleaning products, look for eco-friendly options that are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals. Many brands now offer green cleaning products that are just as effective as traditional ones but are safer for the environment and your health. Cleaning products can end up being washed away into our sewers so it's worth bearing in mind the toxicity of the chemicals in the brands you choose.​
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Reduce plastic waste
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Minimize plastic waste by using reusable containers for your cleaning solutions. Glass spray bottles and jars are great alternatives to single-use plastic bottles. This small change can significantly reduce your environmental footprint.
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Lemon fresh cleaning​
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Lemons are a natural disinfectant and can be used to clean various surfaces. Rub a lemon half on cutting boards to remove stains and odors, or mix lemon juice with baking soda to create a powerful scrubbing paste. The fresh citrus scent is an added bonus!
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Make your own cleaning solutions
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Creating your own cleaning solutions can be both fun and eco-friendly. For instance, a paste made from baking soda and water can scrub away tough stains, while a mixture of vinegar and water can clean glass surfaces. This approach reduces the use of plastic bottles and chemical containers.
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Use reuseable mop pads​
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Instead of disposable mop pads, opt for reusable ones that can be washed and reused. They work just as well and help reduce waste. Pair them with a natural floor cleaner for an eco-friendly mopping routine.
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Harness the power of baking soda
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Baking soda is a versatile and powerful cleaning agent. Use it to deodorize carpets, clean sinks, and even freshen up your laundry. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming to eliminate odors, or mix it with water to create a gentle abrasive cleaner.
Practice regular maintenance​
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Regular maintenance can prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, reducing the need for deep cleaning. Wipe down surfaces daily, sweep and mop floors regularly, and address spills and stains promptly to keep your home looking its best.
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Use natural air fresheners
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Avoid synthetic air fresheners and opt for natural alternatives. Simmer a pot of water with citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to create a pleasant aroma. You can also use essential oil diffusers to keep your home smelling fresh naturally.
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Recycle and repurpose​
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Recycle old clothes and towels into cleaning rags instead of buying new ones. This not only reduces waste but also gives new life to items that would otherwise be discarded. Use these rags for dusting, wiping down surfaces, and other cleaning tasks.
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Educate the household
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Involve your family in green cleaning practices. Teach them about the benefits of using natural cleaners and the importance of reducing waste. By working together, you can create a healthier and more sustainable home environment​​
