Green Cleaning

By: Morgan Olsen

When most people hear the term “go green” they may feel like they must change their lives completely. Thousands of new products that promise to protect the earth line the shelves of every grocery and drug store. This mentality causes many individuals to forgo the green revolution altogether. However, it is possible to “be greener” with simple things that you already have in your home. All you need is right under your nose.

Many everyday cleaners we use around the home can be dangerous to the environment. There are many small step alternatives that can help you make your carbon footprint smaller. Instead of spending your money on all new cleaning supplies, try some of these easy home remedies that will work just as well as your old methods did.

• Clogged drain? Rather than using Drano, a drain cleaner that contains caustic sodium hydroxide, why not try using vinegar, baking soda and water? Here’s how to do it:
  
  1. Pour ½ cup dry baking soda down the clogged drain.
  2. Next, add ½ cup vinegar to the baking soda, cover the drain with the sink plug or a rag (the mixture will fizz up at this point, be sure to keep it covered up).
  3. Let the mixture stand for about 30 minutes, remove the stopper, and pour hot water down the drain.
• When it comes to your dishes, it doesn’t seem like there would be a strong enough alternative. You can still use dish soaps and detergents, just be more careful when you buy. Instead of buying the fancy red colored, apple scented soap, switch to a dye and fragrance free detergent. In most cases, the lovely fragrances and colors are made from unnatural and earth harming substances. The plain alternative will work just as well.
• Instead of using air fresheners that contain harsh alcohols or come from an aerosol can, try using natural scents that will smell just as good. A reed diffuser with natural oils is a great option that can make an entire room smell great for months. Another option, that is even more natural, is using lemons. Lemon is one of the strongest scents that can also work as a cleaner. The acid in lemon juice can help combat bacteria on countertops and kitchen items.
• So what about pest control? The dangerous chemicals in many garden and home sprays can not only be harmful to bugs- but also to your family and pets. Here is a simple recipe from Annie B. Bond, the writer for the popular blog Care2 make a difference, for a natural pest control spray that is safe for your plants and your loved ones:
  1. Soak 10-15 cloves of minced garlic in mineral oil for 24 hours.
  2. Remove the garlic and add about 2 ½ cups water and 1 tsp liquid dish soap.
  3. Mix and spray on plants
• You can also make sticky traps to capture pests in the house, such as ants, flies and gnats.
  1. Paint both sides of a playing card with yellow paint and allow it to dry.
  2. Apply 1-2 tbsp. of Vaseline to both sides and hang in your kitchen or any other area of your home that needs pest control.

Taking baby steps towards the green revolution is an easy and comfortable way to join the cause. Don’t worry that you’re not doing enough—it’s usually better to ease your way into green living. These simple tips can inspire other ideas for natural home remedies; the internet also offers great suggestions for non toxic home and outdoor problems.