Environmentally Friendly Cleaning: What Products Should You Use?

eco friendly cleaning products

Cleaning is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. However, the cleaning products we use can have a significant impact on the environment and our health. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need to transition to environmentally friendly cleaning practices. This article explores what products you should use for environmentally friendly cleaning, why making the change is crucial, and steps to take to reduce your environmental footprint.

Why Make the Change?

Switching to environmentally friendly cleaning products is not just a trendy choice; it’s a responsible one. Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can harm aquatic life, pollute the air, and pose health risks to humans and pets. When these chemicals are rinsed down the drain, they can find their way into our water systems, causing harm to aquatic ecosystems. Choosing eco-friendly cleaning products helps reduce your contribution to these issues.

What to Avoid and Why

Avoid cleaning products that contain harmful chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and phthalates. These substances can be harmful when inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested. They also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Additionally, many traditional cleaning products are packaged in single-use plastic containers, adding to the plastic waste problem.

Popular Environmentally Friendly Products to Choose

Opt for cleaning products that are labeled as eco-friendly, biodegradable, and cruelty-free. Look for certifications from organizations like Green Seal or the EPA’s Safer Choice program. Natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, and essential oils are excellent choices for cleaning. These ingredients are effective, safe, and readily biodegradable.

When transitioning to eco-friendly cleaning at home, there are several tools and products that are recommended to make your cleaning routine more environmentally responsible. Here’s a list of essential items to get you started:

Microfiber Cloths: These reusable and durable cloths are excellent for cleaning various surfaces without the need for disposable paper towels.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is a versatile and eco-friendly cleaning agent that can tackle various stains and odors.
White Vinegar: White vinegar is an effective natural cleaner that can be used for descaling, disinfecting, and deodorizing.
Castile Soap: This vegetable-based soap is biodegradable and can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks, from dishes to floors.
Essential Oils: Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and lemon not only add a pleasant scent to your homemade cleaners but also offer antibacterial properties.
Reusable Spray Bottles: Instead of purchasing new spray bottles every time, invest in durable, refillable spray bottles that can be used for your DIY cleaning solutions.
Biodegradable Scrub Brushes: Look for scrub brushes made from sustainable and biodegradable materials for tougher cleaning tasks.
Mop with Reusable Pads: Replace disposable mop pads with a mop that uses washable and reusable pads. This reduces waste and saves money.
Recycled and Biodegradable Trash Bags: Use trash bags made from recycled materials or those that are biodegradable to reduce the impact of plastic waste.
Washable Cleaning Pads: For dusting and surface cleaning, opt for washable cleaning pads instead of disposable ones.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products: If you prefer ready-made cleaning solutions, choose eco-friendly brands with transparent ingredient lists and certifications from recognized organizations.
Wool Dryer Balls: These natural alternatives to dryer sheets can help reduce drying time, energy usage, and the need for single-use dryer sheets.
Compost Bin: To dispose of organic waste and food scraps, consider a compost bin. Composting reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Glass Jars and Containers: Store homemade cleaning products and ingredients in glass jars to reduce plastic usage and promote reuse.
Eco-Friendly Dishwashing Brushes: Replace plastic dishwashing brushes with brushes made from sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled plastic.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: When it’s time to replace appliances, opt for energy-efficient models, reducing your energy consumption during cleaning.
Low-Flow Showerhead and Faucets: These water-saving fixtures can help you use less water when cleaning and showering.
Rain Barrels: Collect rainwater for outdoor cleaning tasks, reducing the need to use potable water.

By incorporating these tools and products into your eco-friendly cleaning routine, you’ll not only reduce your environmental footprint but also create a healthier and more sustainable living environment.

Steps to Take for Environmentally Friendly Cleaning

Read Labels: Always read product labels to understand what you’re using in your home. Look for products with transparent ingredient lists and eco-friendly certifications.
DIY Cleaners: Consider making your own cleaning solutions using simple, natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. They’re effective and cost-efficient.
Reduce Plastic Waste: Choose cleaning products with minimal packaging, and opt for brands that use sustainable or recyclable materials.
Use Reusable Cleaning Tools: Replace disposable cleaning pads and wipes with washable, reusable alternatives like microfiber cloths and mop pads.
Reduce Water Usage: Be mindful of water use while cleaning. Use a bucket and microfiber mop for efficient floor cleaning, and avoid letting the water run needlessly.

Natural Stain Removal – How To Guide

For natural stain removal, try these methods:

Coffee and Tea Stains: Mix equal parts water and vinegar, then blot the stain with the solution. Rinse with cold water.
Red Wine Stains: Sprinkle salt over the stain to absorb excess liquid. Blot gently, then cover with baking soda. Rinse with cold water.
Grease Stains: Apply baking soda to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then brush it away. Follow with a mixture of dish soap and water.
Ink Stains: Dab the stain with rubbing alcohol, working from the outside in. Rinse with cold water.

All-Purpose Cleaning Spray Recipe

Get started cleaning right away with this simple and effective cleaning solution. Quickly make it yourself for an ideal homemade cleaning spray.

1 cup distilled water
1 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon baking soda
10-15 drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender, lemon, or tea tree for a pleasant scent and added cleaning power)

Combine these ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use. This DIY cleaner is effective for countertops, sinks, and various surfaces.

By choosing environmentally friendly cleaning products and adopting eco-conscious practices, you can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable home while reducing your impact on the planet.

The above are some good suggestions to get you started, but to fully go green with your cleaning, you may need to overhaul your entire supply. Lucky for you we have a growing line of thoroughly tested products that work as well or better than their traditional counterparts.

You don’t need harsh chemicals to do a good job when cleaning your house or removing a stain from clothing. In fact, you may find that the more natural alternatives are both more effective and easier to use. Try some stuff you can find around the house, or wet your feet with products bought locally.

When you’re ready to make the full plunge, check out some of the good stuff for cleaning that we have to offer and then never look back. You’ll find anything you need to clean any type of mess, and you will be able to do it without harming the environment, or those living in your home.