CLEANING GREEN
Tips and Tricks to Eco-friendly Cleaning
By Rosa Colucci
JANUARY 23, 2024
One of the reasons consumers site for not using environmentally-friendly cleaning products is “they don’t work.” We have been inundated with commercials that show spray-on cleaners dissolving on contact with promises of an effortlessly clean home.
The first thing to remember is to let the cleaner do its job. Plant-based cleaners will break down most dirt and grime. Spray the surface and walk away. Cleaners need 10 minutes to disinfect and clean, then wipe with a microfiber cloth and rinse with hot water. If area needs extra care, you can scrub sponge on porcelain or tile or clean eraser on tub surrounds.
Abrasive cleansers for the win when surfaces need a little muscle. Bon Ami provides the grit without the bleach and is safe for many surfaces. Bar Keeper’s Friend is also handy.
When it comes to laundry, stop lugging home cleaners that are full of water and transported in plastic. Switch to laundry detergent pods or laundry sheets. I recommend having both on hand because you need very little detergent to do a load of laundry. Washers are designed for High-Efficiency cleaners and more does not equal better; it’s actually worse. I like to keep pods and sheets on hand (for smaller loads). You can get rid of musty odors with a small amount of distilled white vinegar in the fabric softener compartment.
Don’t overlook your dishwasher’s power to clean kinds of items that you would normally tackle by hand. Shower items including rubber foot mats, caddies, and bathroom vanity trays all look new after a cycle and bonus, you use a lot less water. Use the delicate cycle to clean glass globes from your light fixtures, load separately, use the delicate cycle and air dry finish.
Last, don’t forget the floors, invest in a reusable microfiber cloth that can go in the laundry and ditch the disposable floor wipes.
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