Nature Canada

Top Tips for Nature-friendly Spring Cleaning

It’s the time of year when we want to start fresh, shake off the chill of the past winter, and brighten up our surroundings. It’s time for spring cleaning!

It’s important to think about the effects on the environment as we clean our homes. Commercial cleaners that end up running down the drain with our wash water can end up in rivers and lakes. Harsh chemicals and artificial scents can become airborne, harming our own health and that of wildlife in our neighbourhoods. One-time use solutions clutter landfill sites.

It’s easy to clean your home using items you already have in your kitchen cupboard. These solutions should start to tackle cleaning jobs around the house, leaving both you and nature happier this season.

All-purpose cleaner
A 1:1 mix of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle will tackle most household cleaning chores. If you don’t like the smell of vinegar, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil (choose tea tree oil if you’re looking for a natural disinfectant). Also use vinegar to clean stainless steel appliances, chrome fixtures, and to remove rust.

Wood that shines
Traditional wood polishing sprays leave a cloud of chemicals in the air rather than treating your furniture. Mix up your own polish with 1 cup of olive oil and a squirt of lemon. Rub on to your treasured pieces with a soft cloth to restore their glow.

One of our eNews readers, Patricia, prefers to use pure coconut oil instead of olive oil for polishing wood surfaces. Let us know if you have any other natural alternatives to these tips!

Skip the disposables
Dedicate some reusable cloths to cleaning, and run them through the washing machine (cold water, line dry!) when they get a bit grubby. If you’re looking for added cleaning power, microfiber cloths have a natural charge that attracts dust and can be used dry or damp. Even better, make your own cloths from old towels and keep even more waste out of the landfill.

Sources:
1,001 Ways to Save the Earth by Joanna Yarrow
Ecoholic by Adria Vasil

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