Green spring resolutions: Cleaning the house
Why spring cleaning is good for both you and the planet, and several tips for greening your cleaning.
By Norman K. Bent, Local CorrespondentSun, Apr 04 2010 at 3:10 PM EST
The bright green leaves on once bleak branches classically signal the arrival of spring. Somewhat like New Year's, some people use this time to make "spring resolutions," and cleaning the house is probably the most common one. Unlike New Year's, many actually achieve success with house cleaning.Spring cleaning is an excellent way to purge old belongings and habits. Spring cleaning is also another perfect opportunity to "greenify" the house and get into shape, as well. Before we uncover the buckets and mops, here are some pointers on how spring cleaning can be green and healthy.
• Spring cleaning involves a plethora of jobs around the house. Clean efficiently by dividing up the jobs between each household member. This will bring the family together and reduce total cleaning time. This will also work those muscles instead of sitting inactively in front of the television, ultimately adding years to your life and reducing your carbon footprint.
• While cleaning, use different cleaning tools such as old and used clothing. This will save money and prevent dangerous chemicals from entering the air and your body. Most importantly, it stops disposable products like paper towels from being used and immediately discarded.
• According to a Readers' Digest article, alternative cleaners will not release toxic fumes into the air and into your body. This tip also saves quite a lot of money.
• Instead of throwing away the old trinkets and knick-knacks you will find, donate them to Goodwill or The Salvation Army. Also, if possible, compost as much lawn debris as possible. Recycle as many old bottles, cans, glass objects and other recyclable materials as possible, as well.
• To make spring cleaning 2011 easier, become a conscientious and green consumer. Before you purchase, ask 'Where, when, and why would I use this?' This little question can save you a countless amount of time, money and space. You will also reduce your carbon footprint and your doctor's bill.
In the end, there are always many other ways to become an eco-friendly and healthy spring cleaner. It is the little things in life that affect the bigger picture. In this case, the little things (cleaners, cleaning methods) drastically affect the bigger picture (health issues, climate change). So, change some of the little things in order to improve the bigger picture.
Photo: rkempjr/Flickr
The opinions expressed by MNN Bloggers and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not reflect
the opinions of MNN.com. While we have reviewed their content to make sure it complies with our Terms and Conditions,
MNN is not responsible for the accuracy of any of their information.
| Previous Post Close-up: A sustainable education | Next Post Close-up: Charlotte's new piece of green |
Comments
Josh Basara
03/18/2011 15:38 PM
Hi, my name is Josh and I thought you would like to know there’s another option when cleaning. I work at Activeion, a provider of a 100% chemical-free hand held cleaning device that effectively kills more than 99.9% of harmful germs. Chemicals found in cleaners are the second leading cause of childhood poisons and a recipe for long-term health conditions. The only ingredient you'll find in Activeion is water. I encourage you to visit our website to learn more about how this product is.... More
