We all have chores to do, sometimes they never seem to end. Can we use our skills for living with the Earth to make these sometimes never-ending chores Eco-Friendly? The answer is Yes!

Cleaners

There are so many cleaning supplies out there to make cleaning simple or to get rid of dust and grime. Most of the cleaners and tools sold are held in or made of single-use plastics.

Beyond that, most cleaners are hazardous to our health. There are some “green” cleaners out there but honestly, most of them miss the mark on being a healthy alternative or green.

As I’m sure you know by now, I love Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap. Seriously I use it for everything. My only issue is that it comes in a plastic bottle… I have seen that some shops are starting to sell it in bulk! You can bring your container and fill it up! It’s a natural cleaner that is also a disinfectant. You can use it literally for everything. Check out my post entitled Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner to find out more. You can also purchase it in bars to further reduce waste!

Distilled white vinegar is another amazing all-natural cleaning product. We use it for scrubbing out the tub and toilet. It’s also great for getting musty smells out of towels and clothing. Just add a splash to the wash and you’re good to go.
It’s also great for getting shower heads clean. Just fill a container with vinegar and put your shower head inside to soak.

You can also make your cleaners easily to reduce waste!
Mix vinegar, vodka, or witch hazel with orange or lemon peels to make all-purpose cleaners that smell fresh.

Need extra scrubbing power? Use some baking soda mixed with a little water.

Also Read: Homemade Laundry Detergent

Become efficient

Instead of washing multiple loads of laundry, wait to wash until you have enough for a full load.

Washing large loads is more efficient than small loads because you’re using less water and less electricity. If you are washing smaller loads, make sure to set the washer to the appropriate setting so you’re not using too much water.
If you’re in the market for a new washer look for a HE washer (high efficiency). They use less water, and less electricity and seem to get clothes cleaner (just my observation)
Washing in cold water is also more efficient because you’re not using extra electricity or gas to heat the water needed for the load.

Let Mother Nature dry your clothes. Using a clothesline is the most efficient way to dry your laundry. This isn’t always doable, so use a lower heat setting on your dryer and use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets. This is gentler on clothes and more efficient!

I know that for some, dishwashers are a lifesaver but they use a lot of water and electricity. Washing by hand is extremely Eco-Friendly because you’re in control of how much water you use. For me this chore is never-ending, but if you wash after every meal you won’t have dirty dishes piling up which makes the work easier.

Use natural materials

Use cotton towels and re-purpose cotton tees for use as rags for cleaning, dusting, or even washing dishes.

Avoid microfiber cloth. Microfiber towels are made out of polyester and other synthetic materials. When these materials are washed, they leave behind microplastics that make their way into our waterways and canned food, drinking water, and the ocean.

Sea sponges are great to use for washing dishes, washing your car, or anything you need to use a sponge for!

Natural Loofas are a great replacement for scouring pads as they are abrasive.

Also Read: Sustainable Spring Cleaning

Making your house smell fresh

Typical air fresheners are not only bad for your body they are also bad for the environment. How so?

Well, they usually come in single-use plastic housing, once the scent is gone the housing is tossed.

They are made with chemicals that harm our bodies. Symptoms usually include headache and sometimes redness or rash on the skin.
Instead of purchasing chemical-based air fresheners, purchase some essential oils or make your air fresheners out of fruit.
Diffusing essential oils can also help with illness. Peppermint will help clear sinuses, and Thieves from Young Living helps with overall health. Lavender is calming, and lemon is fresh. There are so many to choose from!
Now Essential oils are the brand I trust for purity.

Place cloves in an orange and boil on low heat to diffuse a spicy/citrus smell. Add cinnamon sticks or lemon peels to add another dimension to the scent. Play around with it. There’s nothing like making your home smell good using natural ingredients.