Chemical-free cleaning for green living

Many of the products we use to keep our homes spick and span actually contain harmful chemicals and toxins that can put you and your family’s health at risk. Making the switch to green living in the home can be as easy as adopting non-toxic cleaning products that are inexpensive and healthy options.

Why make the switch to green living?
Committing to green living in the home by using chemical-free cleaning products is not only beneficial for the environment but for your own health as well.

Chemicals such as triclosan are commonly found in handwash and laundry powder. Triclosan can increase the risk of cancer and disrupt hormones. Laundry powders and liquids contain potentially toxic chemicals that can cause skin irritation, itching and even breathing and behavioural problems.

It’s never been easier to make the switch to green living. Committing to green living in the home can be done by using natural, chemical-free products that can be found in healthfood stores or supermarkets. If you feel like making a commitment to green living there’s a number of ingredients you probably have in your cupboards already that make effective natural cleaning products.

White vinegar and bicarb soda are two popular natural cleaners. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can cut through grease and remove stains. Don’t worry if you find the scent too strong as it will disappear once dry. Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is another gentle yet effective cleaner for removing stains and dirt. It also works as an all-purpose, non-toxic cleaner. You can even clean your teeth with it.

Other commonly used natural cleansers include lemon juice. Lemon dissolves grease and is a natural alternative to bleach. Lemon juice can be used to clean stoves and benchtops. Corn starch is also effective for absorbing oil and grease.

After cleaning with these green products you can add some essential oils such as eucalyptus, tea-tree or lavender for a refreshing smell.

Replacing store-bought chemical cleaners with natural alternatives is an inexpensive way to commit to green living in the home. These ingredients make effective cleaners and can be used in a number of ways.

Green living in the kitchen
Keep a spray bottle with white vinegar in your kitchen to clean kitchen countertops, taps, sinks and chopping boards. Another bottle can be filled with 3 per cent hydrogen peroxide. Together, they can effectively eliminate nasty bacteria.

Green living in the bathroom
Sprinkle baking soda over the bathtub and shower recess and inside the toilet bowl, then spray with vinegar. Leave for a few minutes then wipe clean and rinse. Built-up mould and grime can be removed with vinegar.

Start the transition towards green living in your home today with chemical-free cleaning.