Part of my job as a cleaning expert is to constantly be on the lookout for ways to clean that are safer for my family and the environment and spread the word. To my surprise, eco-friendly cleaning products have come a long way since the early aughts when they first came on the scene, so we don’t have to compromise on performance the way we once did. We can also change our cleaning habits to make the process more environmentally friendly. Here are some of my favorite tips and product swaps for making cleaning at home more eco-friendly.
Dryer balls
Dryer balls are designed to cut static and help speed up drying time. This is because they bounce around and help push residual moisture out of clothing as it spins in the dryer. They can also help to remove wrinkles and fluff up clothing.
Consider a DIY cleaner
Buying cleaner adds up. Let’s say you buy all-purpose cleaner at the store, and you buy a new bottle every two weeks. That’s 24 bottles a year that will end up in the recycling or landfill. If you chose to make an all-purpose cleaner at home, you’ll be saving so many resources. And it’s easy!
Swap paper towel for microfiber
Paper towels are definitely a must-have at home for certain tasks (hello, wiping down the toilet), but there are ways we can cut down on their use. Swap them out for reusable cloths whenever possible—ones that can be laundered and are conveniently located so you can quickly grab them.
Stop using tinfoil and parchment paper
Scrubbing cookie sheets and baking pans after you’re done in the kitchen is a job and a half. Rather than using disposable parchment paper or tinfoil, consider swapping them out for these easy-to-clean silicone liners.
Wash with cold water
About 90 per cent of the energy the washing machine uses goes towards heating the water. According to the Sierra Club, every household that switches to cold water washing could eliminate about 1,600 pounds of carbon dioxide a year. Further to that point, hot water washing ages clothes – which means it stresses the fabrics and makes the colours look dull.
No more single-use hand soap pumps!
Not only do they look nicer, but swapping out plastic single-use hand soap pumps for beautiful reusable options also lets you customize your space and reduce waste. I do this at home and I much prefer this option.
Rinse once and once only when cleaning
Breaking this habit can be tough, and I bet many of our readers aren’t even aware they’re doing it! When we clean something, we often rinse it to “check” if it’s clean, and if it’s not, we just start the cleaning process all over again. This wastes a significant amount of water. Instead, consider adopting a “one rinse” policy. Whether you’re cleaning a pot, a pan, a sink, or a shower, delaying rinsing until the very end can save a lot of water.
