As the summer sun brightens our days and fills our homes with warmth, it’s the perfect time to rethink our cleaning routines. While effective, traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that affect our health and the environment. In contrast, green cleaning offers a healthier and more sustainable way to keep our homes spotless.
Green cleaning involves using natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for your family and kinder to the planet. With longer days and more free time, summer is ideal for transitioning to these eco-friendly methods. Not only will you create a safer home environment, but you’ll also contribute to a healthier planet.
Whether you hire a cleaning company such as Planet Maids, maid service Brooklyn, or do it on your own, exploring how you can take advantage of and enjoy the benefits of green cleaning all summer can help you clean and maintain your home.
1. Prepare for a Green Cleaning Transition
Before starting your green cleaning regimen, declutter your space. Go through each room and remove items you no longer need. Donate, recycle, or repurpose them. This not only simplifies cleaning but also creates a more organized living environment.
Create a dedicated space for your green cleaning supplies. Add essential items like baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and castile soap. Keep reusable cleaning cloths, brushes, and spray bottles handy. Organizing your supplies in one place ensures your cleaning routine is efficient and hassle-free.
2. Create a Summer Cleaning Schedule
First, clean high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Establish a routine that addresses these areas regularly to prevent buildup and maintain cleanliness. Break tasks into chunks to manage schedule easily, daily surface wiping and weekly deep cleaning.
Incorporate small green cleaning tasks into your daily routine. Wipe countertops with a vinegar solution after meals, and use baking soda to scrub sinks and tubs. These small efforts keep your home clean without requiring extensive time commitments. Encourage family members to participate, making green cleaning a shared responsibility.
3. Shop for Essential Green Cleaning Supplies
Invest in high-quality, eco-friendly cleaning products. Brands like Seventh Generation, Method, and Ecover offer a range of practical, non-toxic cleaners. Look for multi-purpose cleaners to reduce the need for multiple products, making your routine simpler and more sustainable.
Equip your cleaning station with sustainable tools, such as reusable microfiber cloths, natural fiber scrub brushes, and biodegradable sponges. These tools are durable and effective, significantly reducing waste.
4. Easy DIY Natural Cleaning Solutions
Creating safe and effective cleaning solutions is simple and cost-effective. Combine water and white vinegar and put it on a battle spray for an all-purpose cleaner, and don’t forget to add essential oil. For a scrubbing paste, combine baking soda with water.
Understand the limitations of DIY cleaners. Vinegar is great for most surfaces but can damage natural stone. Baking soda is an excellent abrasive cleaner but should be used gently on delicate surfaces. Always test a small area first and ensure good ventilation when cleaning.
5. Quick and Easy Green Cleaning Tips
Use multi-purpose cleaners to save time. Products like castile soap can be used for various tasks, from cleaning floors to washing dishes. Keep a handy spray bottle of all-purpose cleaners ready to tackle spills and messes quickly and prevent dirt from accumulating.
Implement time-saving hacks to keep your home clean without spending hours on chores. Set a timer for 15 minutes and focus on one room or task at a time. Involve family members to share the workload, making cleaning a team effort.
6. Daily Habits to Maintain a Clean and Green Home
Adopt daily habits to maintain a clean and green home. Remove shoes at the door to reduce dirt. Use doormats to catch debris. Wipe down surfaces regularly and tackle small messes immediately. These habits keep your home cleaner and reduce the need for harsh chemicals.
Make green cleaning a family affair. Allot age-appropriate assignments to each family member and create a chore chart to track progress. Make cleaning fun by playing music or setting small rewards for completed tasks.
7. Room-by-Room Green Cleaning Guide
The kitchen requires regular cleaning. Use a mixture of water and vinegar to clean countertops and appliances. Baking soda is excellent for scrubbing sinks and removing tough stains. Simmer water with lemon slices and herbs like rosemary or mint for a natural air freshener.
Bathrooms can harbor mold and mildew, so clean them thoroughly. Hydrogen peroxide is a good natural disinfectant for toilets and showers. Baking soda and water are good combinations for cleaning grout and tiles. Keep the bathroom well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.
8. Green Living Room and Bedroom Cleaning Ideas
Instead of chemical air fresheners, use natural alternatives. Essential oils in a diffuser can freshen the air. Open windows to let in fresh air and place indoor plants to improve air quality. Simmering water with citrus peels and herbs can create a pleasant aroma.
Opt for eco-friendly fabrics and materials. Choose organic cotton or bamboo bedding and upholstery. Use wool or natural fiber rugs. Shopping for sustainable and chemical-free materials is key.
9. Tackling Summer-Specific Cleaning Challenges
Summer can bring allergens and dust. Vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture allergens. Dust surfaces with a damp cloth. Wash bedding and curtains frequently to remove dust mites and pollen.
With more outdoor activities, dirt and sand can easily get inside. Place mats at entryways to catch debris. To save yourself from all the hassle, a vacuum or a broom can help you deal with dirt on the floors regularly. For deeper cleaning, mop with a mixture of water and castile soap.
10. Cleaning Up After Summer Activities
Summer activities often lead to grass stains and dirt. Treat grass stains on clothing with baking soda and vinegar before washing. Soak the item in warm water with a natural detergent for dirt stains. Rinse and wash as usual.
After summer gatherings, refresh outdoor spaces. Sweep patios and decks to remove debris. Wipe down furniture with a natural cleaner made from water and vinegar. For difficult stains, try baking soda with a water solution.
In Summary
Green cleaning isn’t just for summer. Adopting these practices year-round ensures a healthier home and a more sustainable lifestyle. Continue using eco-friendly products and methods in your regular cleaning efforts to maintain a clean and green home.
Plan for seasonal green cleaning to keep your home in top shape. Spring and fall are great times for deep cleaning and organizing. Use these opportunities to refresh your home and reassess your cleaning supplies, ensuring you continue using eco-friendly products.
As summer ends, reflect on the changes you’ve made and the benefits you’ve experienced. A cleaner, healthier home and a reduced environmental impact are significant achievements. Celebrate your progress and look for ways to continue improving.
