As the days get warmer, now is the perfect time start spring cleaning. However, in order to get the job done right, it’s important to avoid cleaning products that use harsh chemicals and wasteful practices that can harm the environment.
Sticking to a sustainable spring-cleaning approach is not only better for the environment but also creates a healthier living space for you and your family.
Here are ten smart ways to carry out your sustainable spring-cleaning routine:
1. Use eco-friendly cleaning products
The first step towards sustainable spring cleaning is swapping any toxin-filled cleaning products for eco-friendly alternatives.
Many shop-bought cleaners contain harmful chemicals that can cause health problems and contribute to water pollution when washed down the drain. Plant-based, biodegradable cleaners are just as effective at removing dirt and grime but are much gentler on the environment.
To make things super easy, Bower has everything you need to get going with this year's spring clean, including Multi-Surface Cleaning Gel and Pinewood & Cedar Toilet Cleaner, right through to 5L Grapefruit All-Purpose Sanitiser, Limescale Remover and Bower's Shiny Bathroom Starter Kit.
2. Wipe up with reusable cloths
Bamboo cloths make the perfect replacement for paper towels, which contribute to deforestation and fill up landfills. Sustainable bamboo is not only easy to grow but it uses less water too.
Another smart choice for eco-friendly spring cleaning is Bower's Reuseable Eco Cleaning Cloths. These are biodegradable, incredibly effective at absorbing spillages, and can be washed and reused many times.
3. Choose natural scrub brushes
One quick way to keep your clean-up eco friendly is to avoid buying plastic scrub brushes. Not only are these items non-biodegradable but they also shed microplastics into our waterways with each use.
Choosing scrub brushes made from natural materials such as bamboo or coconut fibre are a far greener choice, and are just as effective for all the usual chores from cleaning dishes to scrubbing the floor – and they look far better in your home too!
Bower’s range of brushes includes a pot brush, a dish brush with a replaceable head, and a toilet brush, all with beechwood handles and natural bristles
4. Buy a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration
High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters help keep the air clean by trapping dust in your home. Investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration helps keep your home cleaner minimising the need for chemical-filled sprays or disposable dusters.
5. Make your own homemade cleaners
Going DIY with your cleaners is an excellent way to keep things eco-friendly. When making your own cleaning products, not only can you can save money, but more often that not you'll already have the ingredients in your home – vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice and essential oils can all be used to make effective all-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners and more.
6. Use a compost bin
Spring cleaning often involves clearing out expired food items from the pantry and fridge. Instead of throwing these items out, you can compost them instead!
Composting is a natural process that turns organic material into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner, perfect for your spring gardening projects.
7. Make the swap to energy-efficient appliances
If you're considering replacing any household appliances this season, there is plenty of energy-efficient models to choose from. These appliances use less energy, reducing your carbon footprint and you'll also save you money on your bills.
8. Stock up on eco-friendly bin bags
To make your spring-clean even more sustainable this year, make sure you stock up on eco-friendly rubbish bags made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
These bags are just as durable as traditional plastic bin bags but have a much lower environmental impact. And don’t forget to choose eco-friendly liners for your kitchen’s compost caddy too!
9. Scent the air with non-toxic air fresheners
If you're looking to add a scent to your home with an air freshener, it's worth checking the ingredients first, as many popular air fresheners contain harmful chemicals that can cause respiratory problems and pollute indoor air.
Choosing non-toxic alternatives in your home is a much healthier option – try essential oil diffusers or eco-friendly candles for cleaner air and a more natural scent.
10. Adopt a green attitude!
Perhaps the most important must-have for sustainable spring cleaning is to think green and be mindful of the waste you produce – always look for ways to reduce, reuse, refill and recycle.
Remember, sustainable spring cleaning is not just about keeping our homes clean; it's about taking care of our planet too.
By making small changes like those listed above, we can all contribute to a healthier environment while still enjoying a fresh and clean home this spring season.