Green cleaning is becoming increasingly popular, and we are all about it! We consider any way we can reduce our carbon footprint a win. Not only are eco-friendly cleaning products better for the environment, but they don’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrances, making them safer for kids, pets, sensitive skin, and anyone with allergies. If you associate eco-friendly products with hefty price tags, you aren’t necessarily wrong. But luckily, we’ve got some simple recipes for making your own green cleaning products and some tips for your eco-friendly home cleaning journey.
Make-Your-Own Formulas
When making your own cleaning supplies, we recommend buying ingredients in bulk, then storing any extra supplies in glass containers with lids. Label them so you know what you have.
- Combine 1 part vinegar, 1 part water, a lemon rind, and rosemary sprigs.
- Pour into a spray bottle, and allow the rosemary and lemon to infuse for 1 week.
- Once your cleaner is infused, use on hard water stains, trash cans, wall smudges, surfaces, and more.
- In a small bucket, combine ½ cup white vinegar and 1 gallon water.
- Add a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil to the solution.
- Clean your floors by dipping a sponge mop in the solution, squeezing it dry, then wiping it across your floors.
- Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe any damp areas.
Laundry Detergent
Making your own laundry detergent is a little more involved but totally worth it.
Ingredients:
- 2 bars unscented Castile soap
- 2 pounds baking soda
- 7 pounds Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
- 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oil
Instructions:
- Start by finely grating your bars of Castile soap.
- Mix grated soap with baking soda, washing soda, and essential oils.
- Use 1-3 Tbsp per load of laundry, depending on the size and soil level.
Green Cleaning Tips
Let the Sunshine In
And the fresh air, too! Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your home is air it out. Opening your windows for a few minutes each day can remove pet dander, pollen, dust, and anything else lurking about.
The Miracle Worker
Two words: baking soda. Seriously, this stuff works miracles and can be used in any room. Our favorite way to use it is on carpets to remove odors. All you have to do is sprinkle a light layer on your floors, let it sit for a few minutes, then vacuum it up.
Say No to Air Fresheners
Candles, wax warmers, and air fresheners may smell good but can contain harsh chemicals. Instead, make a simmer pot and add your favorite herbs and fruits.
Become a Plant Parent
There are a number of houseplants that not only add a cozy element to your home but also clean the air. Peace lilies, spider plants, garden mums, and aloe vera are all plants that will look good and work their magic.
DIY Paper Towels
If you go through a lot of paper towels when cleaning, make rags out of old T-shirts or bathroom and kitchen towels. You can then wash and reuse them.
No Shoes, No Problem
Leave your shoes at the door, on the porch, or in a mudroom when you get home. Walking around with your shoes on brings in all kinds of oil, antifreeze, pollution, herbicides, pollen, and more.