Spring Cleaning

Spring is upon us and everyone is in a craze to get their deep spring cleaning underway! But let’s slow down and really consider what are in those cleaning products that we have under our sinks! Did you know that 1 out of every 3 chemical cleaning products contains ingredients known to cause human health or environmental problems?! Going green is one of the best ways to reduce hazardous waste and keep a clean and healthy home!

Here are some safe and green alternatives to your everyday cleaning routines.

1. Looking for an all-purpose cleaner? Swap out your store bought for this great all-purpose cleaner with a clean lemon scent.

• ½ cup white vinegar
• 2 cups of water
• Lemon rind or 10-15 lemon essential oil drops

Mix all in a glass spray bottle. Try to avoid plastic as many contain BPA.

1. Kitchen counter and stainless-steel appliance cleaners

• 4 tablespoons of baking soda
• 1 quart of warm water

Simply soak a sponge into the mixture and scrub away!

1. Glass Cleaner

• 2 cups of water
• ½ cup white or apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup rubbing alcohol
• 3-5 drops of orange or lemon essential oil for a refreshing aroma

Combine ingredients into a glass spray bottle. Spray onto paper towel first, and proceed to clean windows, glass, and mirrors.

1. Need a fix for those stubborn water rings?!

• 1-part non-gel toothpaste
• 1-part baking soda

Dampen a cloth with water. Add the toothpaste/baking soda combination onto the cloth and apply onto area. Be sure to wipe down with a dry cloth afterwards.

1. Looking for an all-natural, non-toxic laundry detergent alternative?

• 2/3 cup super-washing soda
• 3 tbsp baking soda
• ½ cup Liquid Castile soap-aroma of choice
• 5 cups of water divided

Bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Pour washing soda into a large glass bowl and slowly stir in 2 cups of boiling water until fully dissolved. Add 1 tbsp of baking soda at a time to combine until all 3 tbsp are combined. Stir in Castile soap to mixture. Slowly stir in remaining 3 cups of boiling water.
Cool to room temperature in a large glass mason jar or glass container before using. After cooling, separation will appear. Be sure to whisk or blend the separation out.
Use about 1/3 cup of liquid per load.

Easily replacing your current stock of cleaning supplies for these healthy and environmental friendly cleaning alternatives is a great way to safely accomplish all of your spring cleaning!