Eco-Friendly Spring Cleaning Tips For A Healthy Home
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Believe it or not, spring is almost here. This changing of seasons brings to mind the themes of renewal and refreshment—both of which we could all benefit from this year!
Before you get started with the renewal and refreshment of your home, you might need to do some “spring cleaning” of your cleaning supplies. The American Lung Association recommends avoiding air fresheners and any products that contain fragrances, irritants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and flammable ingredients and purchasing green spring cleaning supplies.
So how do you get a fresh space without all your go-to cleaning supplies?
Here are some tips for eco-friendly room-by-room cleaning this spring.
Eco-Friendly Spring Cleaning Room-by-Room
Bedroom and Living Areas
Fans: Dust your ceiling fans with an extendable duster and protect furniture or carpets with a drop cloth that can be shaken out outside after dusting.
Walls: Quickly wash walls with a microfiber mop or microfiber cloth wrapped around a broom.
Windows and Glass: Microfiber cloths with a spritz of vinegar and water will do the trick. Just be sure to do this task on an overcast day to prevent streaking from the sun.
Blinds: Use a dusting mitt or microfiber cloth to get in between each blade.
Carpets and fabric couches/chairs: Use this simple carpet deodorizer recipe to freshen your carpets and other fabric-covered surfaces.
Throw Pillows: Because they can be a breeding ground for dust mites, throwing your pillows in the dryer on the high heat setting is an effective, non-toxic way to clean them.
Mattress: Similar to the carpet freshener, combining 2 cups of baking soda with 10 drops of your favorite essential oils is the magic recipe. Brush the mixture into your mattress and let sit for 30 minutes before vacuuming up.
Wood Furniture: This DIY furniture polish is just what you need to keep your woodwork fresh.
Bathrooms
Tub/Shower: Use this DIY Bathroom Scrub to get a deep clean without the chemicals.
Showerhead: Vinegar can remove buildup on the showerhead or faucet. Pour a cup of vinegar in a plastic bag, tie it around your showerhead and let it soak for one hour, and then scrub clean with an old toothbrush.
Surfaces: You can make your own all-purpose cleaner for countertops, around the toilet, and other surfaces.
Faucets: Water spots can be removed by rubbing half a lemon over the surface.
Toilets: Yes, there is a non-toxic way to clean your toilet! This DIY cleaner uses just five simple ingredients.
Drains: You can’t go wrong with the classic baking soda and vinegar combination. It will work on simple clogs as well as a general refresher.
Kitchen
Microwave: Heat a cup of vinegar mixed with a cup of water on high for two minutes and you’ll be able to easily wipe away all the stains and grime afterward.
Fridge: You’re going to want to wait until your fridge is close to empty to make this process easier. Start by removing everything including any removable drawers or shelves. Wash all parts with warm soapy water and use a baking soda/water paste for any tough stains. Wipe down the exterior, including handles and door seals. Finish by using the brush attachment of your vacuum to clean the coils.
Stainless Steel Appliances/Sinks: Use a small amount of coconut oil to polish your stainless steel. A magic eraser can also help restore shine to your stainless steel sink.
Floors: Hot water and a microfiber mop can get your floors clean without any chemicals. Use the all-purpose cleaner for any caked-on spots.
Laundry Room
Washer: Mineral and detergent residue can be removed by running two cups of white vinegar through a hot water cycle (without clothes.) You can repeat this as many times as needed to get your machine smelling and looking clean.
Dryer: Scrub your lint tray with a brush, and use a vacuum cleaner on your dryer vent, vent pipe, and hoses.
Detergent: Make your own laundry detergent to skip the toxins and save big on your laundry expenses.
Stains: A homemade stain remover can gently, but effectively remove stains.
Bleach: Use a DIY bleach alternative.
For all other natural cleaning solutions, check this list of non-toxic home cleaning formulas. When you stay away from harsh, abrasive chemicals in your home, you’re taking a first step towards creating a Healthy Home for you and your family.
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