Interested in trying your hand at earth-friendly cleaning? By implementing eco-friendly cleaning practices at home, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
It’s easier than you think to green clean. By making a few simple swaps around the home, you can achieve a clean home – without any of the nasty toxins. They aren’t good for you or the environment.
1. USE REUSABLE RAGS AND SPONGES
There’s no need to be going through copious amounts of paper towels or even throwing out your kitchen wipes. Save the trees (and money) by using rags made from old clothing or microfibre cloths to get your cleaning done.
Purchase recycled, unbleached paper towels and use cloths in their place where possible. You can reuse CHUX cloths by simply popping them in the wash.
2. REPLACE TOXIC CLEANING PRODUCTS
Swap out commercial cleaning chemicals for eco-friendly cleaning products. Many store-bought household cleaners contain chemicals harmful to the environment. These chemicals contaminate the air and enter waterways, causing damage to animals, plants and fellow humans.
Fortunately, there are plenty of homemade cleaners that are just as effective. Lemons are an incredible natural cleaner with antiseptic and antibacterial properties. They’re also natural deodorisers.
Reminder: Natural cleaners aren’t necessarily completely safe. Keep all cleaning products out of reach from kids and pets.
3. AIR-DRY YOUR CLOTHES
The beauty of Australia is we’re blessed with pretty great weather all-year round (ever-changing Melbourne weather aside). Ditch the dryer and utilise the warm, sunny days by hanging up the washing to dry naturally outside. Doing so helps promote energy conservation and can significantly reduce the average household’s carbon footprint.
To limit your use of fossil fuels, wait until you have a full load of washing to do before turning on the washing machine, and use the cold wash when possible. Earth-friendly cleaning will save money as well as energy.
4. FRESHEN THE AIR NATURALLY
The time has come to ditch the air-fresheners. Most air-fresheners contain nasty chemicals laced within the artificial scents and fragrances. The toxic particles they release into the air are hazardous not only to the environment but to human health as well.
Opt to freshen the inside of your home through natural means. There are several ways to do it:
- Improve air circulation by opening windows and doors when possible
- Remove toxins from the air with indoor plants
- Make your own potpourri using scented plants and flowers from the garden
- Neutralise odours with baking soda.
- Mix a few drops of essential oils with water in a spray bottle to spritz in the bathroom.
Discover the most addictive podcasts to listen to while you green clean the home here.
