|
It may seem a bit intimidating to embrace something completely new,
particularly when it affects ways to keep your family safe and healthy. Practicing
green cleaning can be a slow and steady transition or a more comprehensive
change. It may be a trial-and-error process as you find which products work best
for you or find out that you prefer making your own cleaners.
A great place to start is with a standard multi-purpose cleaner. You can make
your own by simply mixing a little vinegar, baking soda and water or consider a
store-bought green multi-purpose cleaner; learn How to Spot a Green Cleaner. The
cleaner can be used on counter-tops, bathroom sinks and a multitude of other home
surfaces. Many at-home recipes can also be used as glass cleaners to provide a
streak-free shine.
Another simple change is using microfiber cloths instead of paper towels. You
can save about $100 a year by reducing or eliminating paper towel use, not to
mention the tons of waste you prevent from entering the landfill. This switch
not only saves money, but also allows you to clean without using any chemicals;
just a little water will do the job. More about microfiber cloths later.
You may want to do a more comprehensive change, removing all of the
un-environmentally friendly products from under your kitchen and bathroom sinks.
In this case, be sure to properly dispose of your old cleaning products at your
local household hazardous waste center or donate them to a charitable
organization. Do not throw them in the trash or pour them down the drain.
If you are unsure of where to start or why to make the switch, read the
sections, ‘Common Misconceptions of Green Cleaning’ and ‘How to Spot a Green
Cleaner.’ Make use of the other resources provided on the page to learn even
more about green cleaning.
top
|