7 Simple Ways To Go Green With Your Cleaning Routine

Use these eco-friendly cleaning strategies to begin using safer materials, reduce household waste, and save money in the long term.

As “green” cleaning becomes more popular, stores’ shelves are becoming increasingly stocked with eco-friendly items. Cleaning products free of harsh chemicals and perfumes are not only better for the environment, but they are also safer to use around children, pets, and anyone in your home with sensitive skin. “We know that goods made from renewable plant-based materials offer a sustainable, healthy option not only for consumers’ homes, but also for the community and environment,” says Brandi Thomas, spokesperson for the eco-friendly brand Seventh Generation. Furthermore, replacing single-use products and disposable packaging with reusable alternatives can reduce household waste and cost less money in the long term.

If you’re ready to join the green cleaning revolution, try introducing one or two of these eco-friendly alternatives into your cleaning routine. As you incorporate more eco-friendly cleaning practices into your routine, you will notice a change in your household waste, indoor air quality, and general home health. Begin with these simple ideas to learn how simple it is to green your cleaning routine.

1. Swap plastic bottles for glass.

Choose cleaners supplied in reusable containers to break the loop of always purchasing plastic bottles. All kinds of cleaning chemicals are now available in glass spray bottles, many of which include a silicone top to prevent slips and falls. This not only reduces plastic usage and your household’s carbon footprint, but it may also cost less in the long run. Refills are often less expensive because you just have to pay for the glass container once.

2. Opt for reusable cleaning cloths.

Instead of throwing your cleaning cloths away, put them in the washing machine. Consider utilizing reusable cloth rags instead of paper towels or single-use cleaning wipes to wipe off surfaces. Microfiber cloths are particularly effective at polishing surfaces and trapping dirt or dust. Furthermore, they dry quickly. After cleaning off your surfaces, simply throw the cloth in the washing machine and reuse it again and over.

3. Experiment with DIY cleaning solutions.

Leave harsh cleaners at home in favor of homemade remedies. Many cleaning tasks can be accomplished using substances found in your refrigerator or pantry, such as baking soda, white vinegar, salt, and lemons. For example, try spraying your showerhead with a mix of one part distilled white vinegar and one part water on a regular basis. This DIY cleaning solution can assist in removing limescale deposits and restoring the shine to your showerhead.

4. Use eco-friendly laundry detergent.

To clean your garments, laundry detergent does not need to be a vivid color or heavily fragrant. Look for laundry solutions that are devoid of artificial scents and colors for a more sustainable cycle, as these are frequently the causes behind skin irritation and allergies. In addition, check labels for potentially dangerous substances like formaldehyde, phosphates, and dioxane.

5. Upcycle outdated toothbrushes.

Instead of throwing out old toothbrushes, keep them and use them to clean surfaces around the house. These tiny brushes are ideal for cleaning hard-to-reach areas such as grout lines between tiles and around tub and faucet edges. Brushes can also be used to scrub rubber soles on shoes, remove tenacious dust from air vents, and lift minor stains from rugs or carpets. Just make sure the ones you use for cleaning are clearly labeled or kept in a separate location than your usual toothbrush.

6. Use natural sponges instead.

Most sponges, which are often constructed of synthetic materials, must be discarded after use. Switch to sponges composed of natural, biodegradable materials such as cellulose or cotton fibers for a more sustainable option. These work just as well as traditional sponges but may be cut up and composted at the end of their life.

7. For a reusable option, use dryer sheets.

Better Homes & Gardens wool dryer balls ($12, Walmart) can be used in place of single-use dryer sheets in your washing regimen. This reusable alternative reduces wrinkles, collects pet hair and lint, and can dry your clothes faster than dryer sheets. Although dryer balls can be more expensive than dryer sheets at first, a single set can last for several years, so you’ll save money in the long run. Add a couple drops of essential oil to each dryer ball for a fragrant boost.