Earth Friendly Cleaning – Easier Than You Think

As consumers, we are constantly bombarded with new cleaning products that will save time and get things done better or faster. Using natural products and resources for earth friendly cleaning is not as difficult as it may seem.

With a spike in the number of adults and children suffering from allergies, asthma, sinusitis or bronchitis it’s imperative for us to avoid using synthetic chemicals in our home environment. Using commercial products that are filled with chemicals, even when they claim to be ‘natural’ is introducing allergens and poisons into our homes.

By making a conscious decision to switch to earth friendly cleaning products and practices in your home, you will be saving money as well as improving the lifestyle for your home, family and pets. There are many inexpensive and easy to use alternatives that can used safely to replace chemical laden cleaning products.

Here are 3 powerful natural items, which you may already have in your pantry, that can easily be incorporated into your cleaning regime for safe and effective earth friendly cleaning:

Bi-Carb Soda

This is a versatile product which can deodorise, soften water and scour away grease. It’s safe to use in your kitchen so simply mix it with a little water to clean bench tops, stainless steel sinks, microwaves, range hoods, cooking utensils, the list is endless. You can also use it to wash fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables safely removing unwanted chemicals and wax on the outer layer. It is a great odour eater – simply place a small bowl in your fridge or sprinkle it into smelly shoes. It’s also wonderful to have a relaxing bath in and leaves your skin clean and smooth.

Lemon

Lemons are high in citric acid so it makes them one of the best natural cleaners due to its low pH and antibacterial properties. You can even use lemon juice in your laundry to replace bleach – it does a great job of whitening while leaving a fresh lemon scent.It’s a great cleaner for bathrooms including taps, shower doors and build up of hard water deposits. And don’t just throw away the peels once you’ve used your lemon! Use these in your spray bottles to create a citrus smelling cleaning spray.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is an effective cleaner and is able to cut grease, remove mildew and odours. If you have persistent odours in your home, leave a little bowl of vinegar out overnight. You can also use it as a hand rinse to remove strong scents such as garlic and onion from your hands. You can also create an effective window cleaner by diluting vinegar with water and using this in a spray bottle and you can even use this spray along doorways, windowsills and bench tops to keep ants at bay.

Making small changes in your immediate surroundings and cleaning practices will help with the long term goals of protecting not only your home but our environment.

NOTE: do not use vinegar and lemon on natural stone e.g. marble.