Essential Ingredients: Natural Cleaning Must-Haves
Keeping a clean and healthy home is essential, and I am a firm believer that simple, non-toxic, and sustainable cleaning solutions are the best way to achieve this. In my own home, I rely on a few key products to keep my kitchen and bathroom sparkling clean. These products are versatile, easy to use, and gentle on the environment. Since it is not possible for me to purchase these products in bulk near me, I opt to buy the largest container I can find and transfer them into my reusable glass containers.
Ode To Baking Soda
Baking soda is a versatile and eco-friendly cleaning solution that can be used in a variety of ways around the house. Baking soda is an affordable, non-toxic, and effective cleaning solution that can replace many store-bought cleaning products. It is a great way to reduce waste and make a more sustainable choice for your home.
Citrus Cutting Board Cleaner
Are you looking for a natural and effective way to clean your cutting board? Look no further than your citrus fruit leftovers. I would definitely not waste an unused lemon to clean your cutting board. The natural acidity of the citrus, combined with the abrasive properties of the salt, will effectively remove stains and bacteria while leaving a refreshing citrus scent. Enjoy a sparkling, hygienic surface for your next food preparation.
Natural Cleaning Supplies
Making the shift towards a more sustainable lifestyle, including adopting a zero waste approach, often requires rethinking the tools and products we use in our daily lives, including those we use for cleaning. In this article, I'll be sharing some of the cleaning tools that have helped me on my zero waste journey.
Unpaper Cloths
In recent years, many households have turned to unpaper cloths as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper products. These cloths, made from materials such as cotton dish towels, cotton flour sack towels, and organic cotton napkins, have replaced the need for paper towels, napkins, facial tissues, and wet wipes in my own home. These cloths are versatile and can be used for cleaning up spills, drying dishes and produce, and wiping dirty hands and faces.
Evergreen-infused All-Purpose Cleaner
Take, for example, the annual tradition of purchasing an evergreen tree for the holiday season. There are many ways to extend the life of this festive purchase. One idea is to prune the tree and use it as a seasonal centerpiece for your home. Another option is to prune it again and create a beautiful wreath for your front door. And, if you're a fan of the refreshing scent of evergreen, you could even make an all-purpose cleaning spray.
2-in-1 pods
DIY cleaning products offer the flexibility to tailor them to your specific needs, and that's exactly what I did with these homemade toilet bowl cleaner pods inspired by @Marandas_world’s post on Instagram. Using ingredients that are commonly found under my sink, I was able to create a versatile and eco-friendly cleaning solution that works not just for the toilet bowl but also for the dishwasher. I was pleasantly surprised by the results and I invite you to give it a try and experience the benefits of a cleaner home with minimal effort.
Dried Garden Herb Sachets
As the seasons change to winter and it's time to switch out your wardrobe, consider incorporating natural elements from your garden to freshen up your closet. Dried herb sachets, made with lavender, rosemary, mint, and thyme, not only provide a pleasant aroma but also act as a natural deterrent for moths and other pests that may be attracted to your woolen garments during the winter months. These herbs, commonly found in many gardens, can easily be incorporated into your cleaning routine to add a touch of freshness and protect your clothes.