This is a guest post written by my wonderful colleague and friend, Michelle Parravani of Designing with Less. I endorse everything she says!
As a professional organizer, I have noticed recently how many of our clients buy their cleaning supplies in bulk. So much so that I feel compelled to address it. I can’t tell you how many times I have had to create a large amount of space to store only cleaning supplies. I mean how many bottles of Windex do you really need?!
It's easy to fall into the trap of buying more than we need, especially when it comes to these types of supplies. Walk down the aisle of any supermarket or home goods store, and you'll be bombarded with countless options promising to make your home sparkling clean. I’m here to tell you that, having an excess of cleaning supplies not only clutters your space but also has negative implications for the environment. In this blog post, I’ll be exploring all the reasons why you don't need a plethora of cleaning products and I’ll also offer some eco-friendly alternatives to help you simplify your cleaning routine.
First off, let's address the environmental impact of using too many cleaning supplies. Many conventional household cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our health and the environment. Not to mention our pets and their delicate noses! When these products are washed down the drain, they end up in waterways, disrupting ecosystems and harming aquatic life. Additionally, the production and disposal of these products contribute to air and water pollution, further exacerbating environmental issues.
So, what's the solution? The good news is that you can effectively clean your home using just a few simple, eco-friendly ingredients. Here are some alternatives to common cleaning supplies that are better for you, your family, and the planet:
1. Vinegar: White vinegar is a versatile cleaner that can tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, from disinfecting surfaces to removing odors. Mix vinegar with water in a spray bottle for an effective all-purpose cleaner. My windows are streak-free and have never been cleaner.
2. Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help scrub away grime and stains. It's great for cleaning sinks, tubs, and even freshening up carpets, sometimes I sprinkle a little in my washing machine for some extra white whites.
3. Castile Soap: Castile soap is a gentle yet effective soap made from plant oils. It can be used for washing dishes, laundry, and even as a body wash. Peppermint is my personal fave. I love the way it makes my house smell and knowing that it’s non-toxic to me and my fur babies makes me feel like a win all around.
4. Essential Oils: Add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or lemon to your cleaning solutions for a pleasant scent and added antimicrobial properties. Or maybe a little lemon juice.
By simplifying your cleaning routine and opting for eco-friendly alternatives, you can reduce your environmental footprint while still maintaining a clean and healthy home. Remember, less is more when it comes to cleaning supplies! If your supplies don’t fit in a cleaning caddy that slides nicely under the sink, you don’t need them. I will say, however, that I completely endorse having the supplies you need on each level of your home.
When it comes to disposing of cleaning supplies you no longer need, it's important to prioritize eco-friendly options to minimize your impact on the environment. One way to safely dispose of unused cleaning supplies is to donate them to local charities, shelters, or community organizations that can put them to good use.
Another eco-friendly option is to participate in household hazardous waste collection programs or events in your area, where you can drop off unwanted cleaning supplies for proper disposal or recycling. By choosing these environmentally responsible disposal methods, you can ensure that your unused cleaning supplies are handled in a way that protects both the planet and the community. Here in Atlanta, the city government does not have a program for the disposal of hazardous waste, however we are lucky enough to have a non- profit organization called Live Thrive that will safely dispose of cleaning supplies. I prefer to take anything I have to the local shelter.
Love the universe and it will love you back!
website: www.designingwithless.com
