In my on going quest to find easier, cheaper and innovative ways to live as green as I can, I have found and used many cleaning products and methods. Some have worked quite well, some not well at all. Many have been so expensive they hardly seem worth it.
Chemicals from cleaning products can have many harmful effects on the environment, as well as the people who use them .... and those who don't. They can cause cancers, respitory problems, allergic reactions and more. They can harm our pets and wildlife, kill helpful bacteria both outside and within our septic systems. The fumes and residues can linger in our homes.
Here are some products, recipes and methods to help keep your home free of harsh, harmful chemicals -
Clorox
Green Works-I recently started using these products in my home and have found them to not only work quite well, but they are also CHEAP! At under $3 each, in my local department store, they seem like a steal compared to many I have used in the past. The line has a product for just about every need.
Automatic Dishwasher Gel - Although a bit more pricey, it is truly free of phosphates and chlorine bleach. Both harmful.
They have an entire line of products, however they can cost a bit more than others
Phosphates, found in most dishwasher detergents, can be very harmful to rivers, streams and other water bodies.
Chlorine bleach is a known toxin. When put into your dishwasher, the fumes are released into the air from the steam produced.
Also try some of these homemade cleaners -
Windows - Mix 1 part vinegar to 8 parts water.... you can also add a drop of liquid dish soap.... spray and wipe with newspaper
Wash windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaking. The heat of the sun quickly dries the formula causing streaks.
Smells - Mix baking soda with water, spray and wipe clean. Good for places like garbage cans and refrigerators
Allow the mixture to sit for just a moment for full effect.
Microwaves - Put water and the juice of a lemon in a bowl and boil inside the microwave for a few minutes. The steam will loosen anything stuck to the inside.
Disposals - Put lemon rinds in and grind up. They will kill odors.
Be careful of misleading labels!
I recently bought a product without fully checking it out first.... only to be disappointed.
Palmolive Eco+ is a dish washing detergent that claims to be Eco safe. It doesn't contain harmful phosphates. Imagine my happiness when it was half the price of a regular detergent! And it worked quite well! Upon further investigating.... it contains chlorine bleach. Not truly eco safe.
These should get you started for a cleaner, healthier home! More to come.....
If you are thinking of, or trying to sell your home, consider cleaning green! Many people are very concerned with what has happened in a home they are considering buying.... including chemicals used. Sure, many might not, but if you can offer a home free of harmful chemicals, it could be a huge selling bonus. Not to mention the effects on you and your family.
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