Spring brings a sense of renewal and many people take on the annual tradition of “spring cleaning.” For most, that means clearing away dust bunnies and tidying up the home. Though spring cleaning can also be an opportunity to adopt eco-friendly practices that are beneficial for both your home and the environment.
Here are four easy ways you can spring clean and make a more sustainable home at the same time.
- Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products.
Switch to environmentally friendly cleaning products. Many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to both your health and the environment. Look for cleaning products that are labeled as non-toxic, biodegradable, and made from natural or plant-based ingredients.
You can also make your own DIY cleaning solutions using common household items such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. These alternatives are safer for the environment AND they are also often more cost-effective, too!
- Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Instead of simply throwing away unwanted items, consider the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle.
- Reduce the amount of waste you make by being mindful of your purchases and opting for reusable products instead of disposable ones. As you’re cleaning, notice what you have in excess.
- Reuse items that are still in good condition by donating them to local charities, selling them, or repurposing them for other uses.
- Recycle items, such as glass, plastic, paper, and metal. Set up designated recycling areas in your home to make it easy to sort and dispose of recyclable materials properly.
3: Conserve Energy and Water
Spring is a great time to begin energy and water conservation practices. It’s helpful to the environment AND your utility bills. Start with these:
- Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
- Unplug electronics that are not being used to avoid “phantom” energy consumption.
- Switch to LED light bulbs, which are more energy-efficient.
- When cleaning, avoid leaving the tap running unnecessarily.
4. Invest in Sustainable Cleaning Tools
Many conventional cleaning tools are not eco-friendly. Disposable wipes and paper towels are convenient, but contribute to waste and pollution. Alternatives to these are microfiber cloths or reusable cotton cloths. Use a more durable, long-lasting mop or broom instead of tools that use disposable floor wipes.
Make a positive impact on the environment and your home with these eco-friendly practices. Your mindful choices will lead to a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable home.
