Switching to eco-friendly cleaning products and methods can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. With a little bit of knowledge and planning, you can easily transition to natural cleaning products and methods that are not only better for the environment but also better for your health.
Here at Kit & Kin, we always look for ways to protect our world, naturally. So we’re excited to share our top tips that will help you make the switch.
Start small
You don't have to overhaul your entire cleaning routine at once. Start by replacing the most toxic products in your home, such as all-purpose cleaners, laundry detergents and dishwasher tablets, with natural alternatives. Look for eco-friendly cleaning products that are safe to use around children and pets and free from harsh chemicals that negatively affect the environment.
Read labels
When shopping for cleaning products, read the labels carefully to ensure that the products are free from harsh chemicals such as parabens, SLS, and artificial fragrances. Look for products that are labelled as cruelty-free to ensure your clean home doesn’t come at the cost of animals suffering in testing labs. Choose plant-based natural ingredients that are biodegradable and therefore not harmful to aquatic life. This is especially important for products like fabric conditioners, laundry detergents and washing up liquid that eventually reach fresh waters.
Use microfiber cleaning cloths
Microfiber cleaning cloths are a great eco-friendly alternative to paper towels. They can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the amount of waste you produce while using. They are incredibly handy when using products such as all purpose cleaners, limescale removers and other home-cleaning products. When you wash your microfiber cloths, place them inside a laundry bag designed to catch any microplastics to prevent them reaching our oceans. When dry, lift out any fibres and place them in the bin.
Look for refillable options
Paying attention to the packaging of cleaning products is just as important as finding non-toxic ingredients. So many cleaning product plastic bottles go to landfill every year, when they can be easily reused for many years to come. Instead, opt for reusable cleaning bottles that can be washed and used multiple times.
Plan ahead
Make a cleaning schedule and stick to it. This will help you maintain a sustainable eco-cleaning routine. It will also help you to stay on top of your cleaning tasks and ensure that you have environmentally friendly cleaning products at hand.
Educate yourself
The more you know about eco-friendly cleaning, the more motivated you will be to make the switch. Read books, blogs, and articles about sustainable living and green cleaning.
As with all your moves towards a sustainable lifestyle, don’t be too hard on yourself. By starting small and setting yourself achievable goals like reading labels, avoiding disposable packaging and planning ahead, you can easily transition into using natural cleaning products and methods that are better for the environment and your health and well-being.
