Green Cleaning
In this cleaning series so far we have looked at conventional cleaning products and how they negatively impact the environment. Then we looked at the technical aspects, levels of cleaning we do, and what we should be avoiding. Today I am going to finish off with a run down on your green cleaning options!
General tops tips to get you started
Use up what you already have
Do your research if trying out a eco-friendly brand
Make choices that you find exciting and / or easy
Start with swapping out one or two products
Don’t try to make your own from scratch for all your cleaning products all at once!
Eco alternatives
Vinegar
White distilled vinegar is a great eco alternative to all purpose spray. It’s acidity means it is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, removes stains and it is a natural deodoriser.
To make a all purpose spray mix half water and half vinegar and then add a few drops of essential oil. Shake it up, spray and wipe. Do not use on natural stone surfaces and spot test on hardwood floors.
Bicarbonate of Soda
Bicarb is a deodoriser and a mild abrasive which means it is great for scrubbing almost anything. Just to be clear this is not the same as baking powder although in a pinch I have used it. Baking powder has added raising agent where as pure bicarbonate of soda is cheaper and sold in larger quantities for cleaning use.
You can sprinkle it around your sinks and scrub. Or make a paste to clean you oven or even sticky labels on jars.
Essential Oils
I love using essential oils in my cleaning products. They smell great and have a positive impact on my physical and emotional health.
The kind you want to focus on for cleaning will have antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties.
Citrus ones like lemon, orange or grapefruit fit this profile. They also have the added benefit of cutting through grease and brightening your mood!
Soap
Soap is made by mixing fats and oils with a base to make a surfactant. Surfactants, or surface active agents, work through having molecules that are attracted to dirt or oil on one end and water on the other.
This means that when we wash things with soap the dirt molecules attach onto the oil and then are washed away with the water leaving things clean.
In fact soap and water, when used for at least 20 seconds, can cleanse your hands of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, Lassa fever, Cholera, the common cold, some foodborne diseases and norovirus! (World Health Organisation)
And this applies to any soap. So, why not switch to a more simple natural soap?
Eco brands
The alternative to DIY green cleaning products is eco-friendly brands. I am happy to say I am seeing more and more great ones out there and even on some supermarket shelves!
As always do your research. Check who the company is owned by and if is is a environmentally sustainable brand from top to bottom.
Check the chemicals listed are not just the same ones you were using before just repackaged. See previous blog for list of chemicals to look out for.
All things cleaning
And if you’re wanting some more help and advice then check out my eco consultations! I have worked with various people to help them transform their cleaning routines and products. It’s a great way to get started in living more sustainably.