November 12th, 2022
We spend a good chunk of our time in our homes, especially during the winter. As a result, we breathe in toxins that build up inside. If you are ready to kick health issues to the curb and make a change, it’s time to switch to a green cleaning routine.
Store shelves are featuring more eco-friendly products. Many reputable home-based businesses are also offering them for sale. The products don’t have harsh chemicals or fragrances, and are safer to use around children, pets and people who have allergies or sensitive skin. Here are ways you can join this ever-growing green movement.
No More Plastic Bottles
Choose products packaged in reusable containers and buy fewer plastic bottles. This will reduce the use of plastic and your household’s carbon footprint. You can also save money since it usually costs less to buy a glass container only once and then refill it.
Reuse Cleaning Cloths
Purchase cloth rags you can toss into the washing machine and then reuse. The waste from paper towels and single-use cleaning wipes builds up over time. Microfiber cloths are especially good for polishing surfaces and trapping dirt or dust.
DIY Cleaning Products
Make your own cleaning solutions at home. You can use Ingredients you likely already have, such as baking soda, white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, salt and lemons. Whip up an all-purpose cleaner, kitchen cleaner and deodorizer, glass cleaner and more using these simple ingredients.
Use Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent
Look for laundry products that don’t contain artificial fragrances and dyes. Also inspect the labels for potentially harmful chemicals, including formaldehyde, phosphates and dioxane. Stay away from them.
Toothbrushes, Sponges and More
Don’t toss out old toothbrushes. The narrow brushes are perfect to clean areas that are hard to reach, such as grout lines between tiles. They can also scrub dirt off the soles on shoes, and clean dust on air vents.
Use sponges made from natural, biodegradable materials. Unlike synthetic sponges which are normally thrown in the trash, natural sponges can be cut up and tossed in your compost pile.
When doing the laundry, Try using wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets. The reusable balls help reduce wrinkles, catch pet hair and lint and can dry your clothes faster. One set of dryer balls can last for a few years.
Where Toxins Hide in Homes
There are places in our homes where toxins love to hide. Blenders are one. The bottom holds a gasket where bacteria actually stay which can increase the risk of salmonella, norovirus, and listeria. It needs to be thoroughly cleaned. Tap water contains minerals and some harmful chemicals, depending on where it comes from and how it’s treated. The U.S. has one of the safest water supplies in the world, according to the CDC. Moldy shower curtains and bath mats, chemicals and dust in carpet, and old air filters can also contribute to health issues.
Why Switch to Green Cleaning
Green cleaning offers many benefits. The products are environmentally-friendly, don’t contain harsh chemicals, are better for your health, won’t pollute indoor air, and can save money.
Green cleaning products can be as effective as traditional cleaning products. You may just need to use a bit more of them and apply a little more elbow grease. It is a myth that only chemical cleaners can kill the cold and flu virus. Vinegar works just as well.
Keep Your Home Allergen-Free
If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies, the mold, mildew and algae surrounding your home could be a contributing factor. The professionals at Peak Power Wash can take care of the clean up. The company has been offering pressure washing services to parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania since 1998. Call us at 443-686-WASH or request a free estimate online.