Green Cleaning Tips for a Healthier Home

by Great Green Cleaning — July 18, 2023 in Green Living, Health & Well-Being, Lifestyle

Amidst the whirlwind of our daily routines, the comfort of a clean, healthy home serves as our personal sanctuary. However, it’s crucial to understand that some traditional cleaning methods and products can actually harm your health and the environment. That’s where green cleaning comes in.

Green cleaning involves using methods and products with environmentally friendly ingredients designed to preserve human health and environmental quality. As advocates of green cleaning at Great Green Cleaning, we’re eager to share some of our top tips with you.

Why Clean Green?

Green cleaning is not just about being kind to the environment. It’s also about creating a safe, non-toxic environment for you and your family. Traditional cleaning products often contain chemicals that can cause health issues such as allergies, asthma, skin irritations, and more. Green cleaning products, on the other hand, are made with natural ingredients that are safe for both humans and pets.

Green Cleaning Tips for a Healthier Home

1. DIY Green Cleaning Products: You can make effective, non-toxic cleaning solutions with common household items. For example, a mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean windows and mirrors, while baking soda and lemon are great for scrubbing surfaces. For scrub powder, we use Barkeepers Friend, which is unbleached and uses all-natural ingredients.
2. Eco-Friendly Air Fresheners: Synthetic air fresheners can contribute to indoor air pollution. Instead, try natural methods to keep your home smelling fresh. Simmer herbs and spices on the stove, use essential oils, or open your windows to let in fresh air.
3. Regular Dusting: Dusting is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. Use a damp cloth to trap dust instead of sending it back into the air. Don’t forget to dust hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fans and baseboards.
4. Green Laundry: Make your laundry routine more eco-friendly by washing clothes in cold water, line drying when possible, and choosing laundry products with plant-based ingredients and minimal packaging.
5. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Try to reduce waste by using reusable cloths instead of paper towels. If you have to use paper towels, you can always compost food-soiled paper towels. Re-usable sponges are also great and save you money as well, and can usually be cleaned in the laundry or in the dishwasher.
6. Compost Food Scraps: Keep a bowl next to your cutting board for all the food scraps. Composting also keeps your garbage from smelling, improving indoor air quality. If they don’t collect compost on your street, there are numerous food scrap drop-off sites located at Greenmarkets, certain subway stations, and other locations throughout the city. You can find the nearest drop-off site using the NYC Compost Project website.

At Great Green Cleaning, we’re committed to providing our clients with top-notch cleaning services that don’t compromise on environmental responsibility. We understand that every home is unique, and we tailor our services to meet your specific needs.

If you’re interested in making the switch to green cleaning but aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help! Give us a call at 718-369-9000 for a free estimate. We’re available 7 days a week to assist you in creating a healthier, happier home.

Remember, green cleaning is not only better for the environment, but it also creates a healthier home by reducing exposure to toxic chemicals. Start implementing these green cleaning tips today for a cleaner, healthier home. With Great Green Cleaning, you can have the best of both worlds.

Stay clean, stay green!

A Word of Caution: Beware of ‘Greenwashed’ Cleaning Products

As you embark on your journey towards a greener, healthier home, it’s important to be vigilant. Unfortunately, not all products labeled as ‘green’ or ‘eco-friendly’ live up to their claims. This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘greenwashing’, can mislead consumers into purchasing products that are not truly environmentally friendly or safe for health.

One common pitfall to watch out for is the inclusion of fragrances in cleaning products. While a pleasant scent may make cleaning more enjoyable, many fragrances are synthetic and can trigger allergies, asthma, and other health issues. Some products may also contain hidden allergens and irritants, even though they’re marketed as ‘green’ or ‘natural’.

Always take the time to read labels carefully. Look for products that are fragrance-free, and that list all their ingredients transparently. If you’re unsure about a product, do some research or consider making your own cleaning solutions from natural, household items.

Remember, a truly green cleaning routine is about more than just using products labeled as ‘eco-friendly’. It’s about making informed choices that prioritize both your health and the health of our planet.