Fresh Wave’s Guide to Eco-Friendly Cleaning
There’s never a wrong time to tidy up! For eco-conscious consumers and homeowners, cleaning presents an excellent opportunity to adopt more sustainable practices. By making a few simple changes, you can achieve a sparkling clean home while minimizing your environmental impact. Here’s Fresh Wave’s guide to eco-friendly cleaning.
Use Natural Cleaning Products
Natural cleaning products tend to be less toxic and more environmentally friendly. They rely on ingredients that break down easily and do not accumulate in the environment. Try these tools as you get ready:
- Essential Oils—Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and lemon have antibacterial properties that enhance the cleaning power of homemade cleaners.
- Plant-Based Options—Many brands make plant-based cleaners and vacuum beads that prioritize sustainability and use eco-friendly packaging.
- Cleaning Tools—Choose sustainable tools like reusable microfiber cloths, bamboo brushes, and compostable sponges to further reduce your environmental impact.
Reduce Chemical Usage
Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can harm both your health and the environment. These chemicals can contribute to indoor air pollution, skin irritation, and respiratory problems. Beyond that, they can pollute water sources and harm aquatic life when washed down the drain. Avoid harsh chemicals with these strategies:
- Read Labels—Opt for products labeled as biodegradable and free from harsh substances like phthalates, chlorine, and ammonia.
- DIY Cleaners—Create your own cleaning solutions using simple, natural ingredients. For example, a mixture of vinegar and water works wonders on windows and mirrors, while baking soda can tackle tough stains and deodorize surfaces. If you need a quick, non-toxic solution to freshen up your space, try an odor-eliminating gel.
- Ventilate—Sometimes, there’s no good way around conventional cleaning products. If you need to use chemicals, always clean in a well-ventilated area to reduce exposure to any harmful fumes. Open windows and use fans to circulate fresh air.
Recycle Whenever Possible
You’ve definitely heard this one before—recycling. Recycling is a crucial part of any cleaning routine. It helps reduce waste sent to landfills and conserves natural resources. And the good news? Recycling doesn’t have to be tedious or difficult. At the beginning of your cleaning session, create separate bins for recyclables and non-recyclables. Donate or repurpose what you can, and be sure to send any old electronics to appropriate e-waste recycling centers.
Hang Laundry to Dry
Here’s a simple solution for green cleaning—hang laundry to dry instead of using the dryer. Dryers consume a significant amount of energy, and by hanging your laundry to dry, you can save that energy and extend the life of your clothes. We recommend investing in some outdoor lines for efficient drying, but you’ll also want indoor racks if the weather isn’t cooperating. You might also try some eco-friendly laundry additives to keep your clothes smelling fresh.
Be Mindful of Water Use
Water is a precious resource, and conserving it helps protect the environment and reduce your utility bills. Make sure to take the time to check for leaks in your home and repair them as soon as possible. Dripping faucets can waste gallons of water over time! Cleaning is also a good opportunity to implement other water-saving strategies. Make an effort to use the “basin” method (fill the sink with water for rinsing) instead of letting the tap run continuously. Many homeowners even consider switching to low-flow faucets to more easily reduce their water consumption.
Quick Tips for Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning
You have countless options when it comes to eco-friendly cleaning! Here are a few more quick tips for getting home in top shape:
- Declutter—Simplify your living space by decluttering and organizing. Less clutter means less dust and fewer surfaces to clean, reducing the need for cleaning products.
- Natural Air Fresheners—Instead of synthetic air fresheners, use natural alternatives like Fresh Wave’s odor-elimination sprays.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances—If you need to replace any cleaning appliances, choose energy-efficient models to reduce your household’s overall energy consumption.
