Ten Tips for a Cleaner, Greener Home

Ten Tips for a Cleaner, Greener Home

I am always looking for ways to make cleaning my home easier and safer. I don't believe in global warming, but I do think it is good to avoid chemicals whenever possible because many are toxic.

Also, you can save money by making your own cleansers.

1. Open the windows when you clean. Also it is a good idea to open your windows to allow fresh air in at other times.

2. Stains, mildew or grease streaks can be cleaned with lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes then scrub with a stiff brush.

3. Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other acids becauuse the combination can produce harmful gases.

4. Avoid air fresheners because they only disguise odors. Instead you can open a window, and a box of baking soda is another safe way to eliminate odor. Also, fresh flowers are great smelling!

5. Use a baking soda and water paste to clean the oven.

6. Baking soda can also be used to remove stains. You mix the baking soda and water into a paste and let set for a while. It also works well for stainless steel sinks, containers, refrigerators, cutting boards, oven tops and more.

7. If you need a tougher abrasive cleaner, you can use kosher salt. You sprinkle it on and scrub with a wet cloth or sponge.

8. Use dishrags and towels instead of paper towels. It will save you a lot of money and significantly decrease the waste going in the landfills.

9. Mop with a vinegar solution (¼ cup vinegar in 1 quart of water).

10. To clean windows mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with a gallon of water. Put it in a spray bottle. Squirt it on then scrub with newspaper. Paper towels cause streaking.


If you do use toxic cleansers:

Only used what is necessary to clean the area, but don't over do it.

Keep the children away because they are more vulnerable to toxic chemicals. If they like to help, let them clean with soap and water but not toxic cleaners.

Use gloves and other precautions because cleaning chemicals may harm or penetrate skin and eyes. Be sure to check warning labels.

Avoid "antibacterial" cleansers. according to the American Medical Association
there is no need to use potentially toxic "antibacterial" products if your family is generally healthy. Wash your hands with plain soap and water.

Take care with pine and citrus oil cleaners especially on smoggy days, when the ingredients can react with ozone to produce cancer causing formaldehyde.


As you can see there are many safer alternatives to cleaning your home. I like them because they are safer and save me money.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Mrs. Meyer’s blogging program, making me eligible to get a $30 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here .