With Spring arriving, we're all getting in a spring cleaning mood! This year though, we want to make healthier swaps for our families and our environment. There are so many products today that claim to be "all-natural" and "chemical-free" but aren't as effective and can be twice as much as our normal cleaning products. But, with a few easy swaps, creating a healthier, happier, and safer home is easier than you think! There are so many simple and cost-effective swaps and hacks you can do to achieve a home that’s more natural and sustainable.
Here are some of our favorite tried and true tips and products that can help to make your space clean, healthy and happy!
Reusable "Paper" Towels:
Traditional paper towels contribute to waste and environmental pollution. Instead, consider investing in reusable "paper" towels made from sustainable materials like bamboo or organic cotton. These towels are durable, absorbent, and can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money in the long run.
Check out this super cute set by Papaya Reusables!
Baking Soda and Vinegar for Cleaning:
Say goodbye to harsh chemical cleaners and opt for natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive and deodorizer, while vinegar is effective at cutting through grease and grime. This classic combo creates a powerful yet eco-friendly cleaning solution for surfaces, sinks, and stubborn stains.
Wool or Bamboo (or cotton!) Dryer Balls:
Traditional dryer sheets are often laden with synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can irritate the skin and respiratory system. Switch to wool (or bamboo for a vegan alternative) dryer balls, which are a natural and reusable alternative. You can also put a few drops of your favorite essential oil to add a wonderful scent to your laundry! These balls help to reduce drying time, soften fabrics, and eliminate static cling without any harmful additives.
Reusable Cling Wraps:
Plastic cling wrap is a convenient but environmentally damaging product. Instead, try beeswax wraps made from organic cotton infused with beeswax, tree resin, and jojoba oil. (Bee’s Wrap offers a vegan version as well!) These wraps are perfect for covering bowls, wrapping sandwiches, and storing leftovers. They are reusable, biodegradable, and a sustainable choice for reducing plastic waste in your kitchen.
Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner:
Create your all-purpose cleaner using simple ingredients like water, vinegar, and essential oils. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a pleasant scent. This homemade cleaner is safe, effective, and free from harmful chemicals found in commercial cleaning products.
Small changes in our daily routines can greatly impact our health and the environment. By opting for natural and chemical-free alternatives in our household products, we can create a safer and more sustainable home for ourselves and future generations. Let's embrace these easy swaps and take a step towards a healthier and happier home.
Remember: these swaps are just the beginning. Keep exploring and experimenting with new eco-friendly products and practices to reduce your environmental footprint further and promote a greener lifestyle! We all have a part to play!