Many seemingly innocuous common household products and cleaners actually release toxic endocrine-disrupting chemicals and carcinogens. This spring, clean your home (and mind) until sparkling with these SAFE and effective methods.
1. Let Some Air In!
Take a fresh breath of spring air. Eliminate odors and ventilate naturally by opening the windows. Dryer sheets, air fresheners, beauty products, non-stick pans, and electronics can all cause off-gassing when used and a good way to get rid of these fumes is to let the breeze in.
2. Donate Your Fall & Winter Wardrobe
Now is a great time to make some room in your closet. Launder and donate that winter coat you’ve been wearing all season or those old boots that are probably just going to hang around indefinitely. Homeless shelters and Salvation Army or Goodwill will be happy to stock up on your gently used styles.
3. Vacuum Better
Baking soda is cheap and effective for cleaning. Freshen the carpet by sprinkling a box of baking soda throughout the house. Give it 15-30 minutes to sit and then vacuum thoroughly. Especially remember open the windows and doors when you are vacuuming to help get rid of allergens and musty smells.
4. Wash Windows Fast & Easy
Mix a couple teaspoons of vinegar with warm water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a great natural way to cut grease, and you can dilute it enough so that it won’t have a strong smell. Spray on windows and wipe away clean with old newspapers.
5. Make Your Own Personalized All-Purpose Cleaner
Essential oils are like magic! Eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, tea tree oil, bergamot, lemongrass, oregano, thyme, citrus, clove, basil, rosemary, and cinnamon are all known to have anti-bacterial properties. Disinfect surfaces by combining 10-20 drops of essential oils with water in a spray bottle. Wipe it up with a repurposed old t-shirt instead of using paper towels.
6. Refresh Your Bed
First, wash your bedding in hot water. Wash mattress pads and pillows, too. Then, sprinkle baking soda all over your naked mattress and let it sit for at least an hour. Vacuum up slowly with the hose attachment on your vacuum. Flip the mattress and repeat. Consider steam cleaning your mattress (and couches!) if the option is available to you.
7. Making Your Own Scouring Powder
For bigger jobs like cleaning the oven or tub, mix these simple ingredients to eliminate even the toughest grease and scum. Wellness Mama recommends combining 2 parts baking soda, 1 part salt, and 1 part borax.
8. Easy Air Freshener
Fill a pot halfway with water, sliced citrus fruits and herbs like rosemary, ginger, and mint. Simmer on very low for an hour or until the water has almost entirely evaporated. Another way to freshen the air and clear out stagnant energy is to use a smudge stick.
Make these small changes apart of your regular home routine and you’ll be saving money, yourself and the planet!
